Summer School: Introduction to Dressmaking

Summer School: Introduction to Dressmaking

A 3-day intensive sewing course.

Wednesday 28-Friday 30 July 2020  10m – 5pm each day

Making your own clothes is extremely satisfying. You can obtain a perfect fit and have something completely unique, But it’s difficult knowing where to start. Commercial paper pattern sizes bear no relation to shop-bought, and all those fabrics to choose from?  If you’d like to learn to make your own clothes, but are struggling to get started, then this short course will give you a great foundation.

Course Description

Using an easy sleepwear pattern (for guys and gals), I’ll guide you through interpreting the ‘lingo’ of patterns. Using the best size, choosing the right fabric, cutting and sewing – all with help at hand.

The pattern I’ve chosen is Simplicity 1563 (pictured). It includes several different pieces so you can mix and match.  The bottoms and robe are made in woven fabric. The vest and T-shirt are in knitted jersey.  That can be tricky to work with, especially for novices, but I’ll teach you a few tips to help. And these garments are wardrobe staples so you may even want to make them again for casual wear. Just think of that cute little vest-top paired with the tie-waist trousers for a great holiday evening outfit.

You must already have competent sewing skills i.e. have completed a Beginners sewing course, be confident using a sewing machine and be able to thread up and wind bobbins, and to sew neat, accurate seams.

While other providers are packing in up to 12 people per course, Artisan Stitch has a maximum of 5 places per course.  Not only does this enable me to make your tuition more personal and individual, it’s also far safer too! The most exclusive sewing courses available!

Who is this aimed at:

• Anyone who has recently started to sew and would like to make clothes
• Novice dressmakers who would like some help to understand how to use commercial patterns, and improve your dressmaking skills
• Lapsed sewists: perhaps it’s been a while since you last did any dressmaking and you need to brush up your knowledge and skills

What will I learn?

How to use commercial paper patterns and learn garment-construction techniques.

• choosing the best size, and making some basic alterations for a good fit;
• select suitable fabric and use it economically.
• understanding the ‘language’ and markings on patterns
• Fabric-cutting and marking techniques
• sewing pieces together (garment-construction)
• tips and tricks to obtain a professional-quality finish

There will be time to make at least 2 of the pieces (your choice of 1 top and 1 pair of bottoms). You may have time to make a 3rd item (or at least start it).  There will be some structured tutorials over the 3 days with plenty practical time.

Total 18 hours. 

Course Arrangements

I’ll provide your paper pattern but you’ll need to bring your own fabric.  I’ll provide a note of what you’ll need when you book. Sewing machines are available in the studio or you can bring your own if you prefer. (If you bring your own, then please remember the power cable/foot control, bobbins, presser feet, spare needles and the instruction manual)

You’ll also need your basic sewing kit of : Fabric shears, scissors for cutting paper, pins, tape measure (cm) chalk pencils or fabric marking pens, note book.

Cost: £205 – including pattern.  You will need to provide your own fabric. I’ll advise you what you’ll need when you book. (Hint: duvet covers make great PJ’s!)

Travel, meals and accommodation are not included.

There will be a break for lunch, and opportunities for short breaks throughout the day.

Useful links:

I’ll be covering both of these topics in the course but you might want to have a wee read before then:

Making your mark – A guide to fabric marking tools

What pattern size am I? – how to choose the correct size

Where to buy fabric in Edinburgh:

Fabric Focus

Edinburgh Fabrics

Here’s where you can buy sewing equipment: Hobbycrafts, The Range, Fabric Focus, Edinburgh Fabrics, Dunelm Mill, John Lewis and I highly recommend the fabric shears from IKEA for only £5. Otherwise everything can be obtained from Amazon.