Intro to Dressmaking course

Intro to Dressmaking course

This intro to dressmaking course will teach you how to make your own unique clothes that fit well.  Or you can alter, repair or upcycle your existing wardrobe for a sustainable approach.

Intro to Dressmaking Course description

Learn how to understand and follow commercial paper patterns and how to find your best size. You can choose your own project to work on. I’ll give you a few suitable suggestions if you need help to choose. I’ll share lots of tips and tricks that give your projects a polished look. I’ll be focussing on teaching technique so your clothes won’t look ‘Homemade’, but ‘Handmade’.  No-one will believe you made them yourself.

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 one or two craft projects, and have an awareness of basic seams and hems and various edge-neatening methods.  If you do not, then I recommend you take one of my Beginners 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-quality 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 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.

Sewing machines are available in the studio if you need one.

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.

To have or have not. What sewing equipment do I need?