Dressmaking course

Dressmaking course

This Dressmaking course will teach you how to make your own unique clothes that fit perfectly and improve your existing sewing techniques. Or alter, repair or upcycle your existing wardrobe for a sustainable approach.

If you have not taken one of my foundation-level courses, please read the ‘Who is this aimed at’ section below to ensure you have the requisite sewing skills.

Dressmaking Course description

Learn how to understand commercial paper patterns and how to find your best size. If you’ve already done a bit of dressmaking, then you can improve your techniques to achieve a better finish. I’ve been dressmaking since I was at school. I’ve also studied Bridalwear and Tailoring so I’ve learned lots of tips and tricks that give your projects a polished look. During this course, I’ll be focussing on teaching technique so your clothes won’t look ‘Homemade’, but ‘Handmade’.  No-one will believe you made them yourself. If you’ve already familiar with dressmaking techniques and commercial patterns and you’d like to learn how to alter clothes or patterns, then you can do this here too.

Please check here before booking as once purchased, tickets are non-refundable.

Who is this aimed at?

Dressmaking is about the garment construction techniques; not learning to sew from outset. You should already be able to use a sewing machine confidently, have had practice making at least two or three craft projects, and have an awareness of basic seams and hems and various edge-neatening methods.  Practice at zips and buttonholes is also required (you don’t want to be inserting a zip into your actual garment if it’s the first time). If you do not, then I recommend you take one of my Foundation classes first. These are also suitable as a refresher if you’ve got a bit rusty or try the Refresher Sewing Class first to brush up on your machine skills.

What will I learn?

I’ll coach you along the way in the following:

• How to choose an appropriate pattern for your level of ability,
• Taking measurements, cutting and fitting the pattern, understanding pattern markings and instructions
• Altering the pattern for a perfect fit
• Sewing tips and techniques to achieve a professional finish

Dressmaking Course arrangements

A small class size ensures I’m able to give you lots of individual attention. Students work on their own choice of project, and I tailor your tuition accordingly.  I’ll help you with sizing, fitting and any sewing techniques that are relevant to your chosen garment. If you have any questions about the level or format of the course, or have any specific learning requirements, then please get in touch to discuss this before you book.  I’m always happy to chat about the suitability of your chosen pattern or recommend an alternative class/course.

You’ll need to bring your own pattern, fabric, matching thread, plus any interfacing, zips/buttons etc which are required to complete your project. You’ll possibly also need calico (or curtain lining, sheeting etc) for making a mock-up of the pattern to check the fit (known as a ‘toile’), and pattern-making paper. Please bring a basic sewing kit of fabric shears, paper scissors, small sharp embroidery scissors for trimming, tape measure (marked in cm), chalk pencils/fabric marking pens and pins. Check out my blog article ‘Making Your Mark‘ for guidance on fabric marking pencils & pens.

Sewing machines are available in the studio if you need one or you can bring your own.

Useful Links:

My blog pages contain lots of informative articles about stuff you need to know when you start sewing. Why not spend a few minutes swotting up?  Here’s a couple of links to get you started.

Get to the point. How to choose the correct sewing machine needles.

How to choose the correct pattern size?