Introduction to Dressmaking

This dressmaking workshop is an ideal follow-on from my beginner machine sewing course, or for anyone with basic sewing machine skills who wants to start making their own clothes. Learn how to read and understand commercial patterns and the foundational techniques for dressmaking while making a cosy pair of pyjama bottoms.

Included in the price is a Simplicity commercial pattern with various his/hers nightwear designs which you can take away and re-use. You will learn how to understand and adapt patterns to get a perfect fit. Plus, get to grips with waistbands, hemming, joining straight and curved seams, and pattern matching to achieve a professional finish. Just bring 3 metres of your choice of fabric and a sewing machine if you want to use your own.

This class is designed for students with basic sewing machine experience and taught on your machine but if you do not have a machine the tutor has entry level Janome machines available to use for free. Workshop price includes Simplicity pattern, hire of machine (if needed), sewing kits and thread.

You will learn:

  • How to read a commercial sewing pattern
  • How to create an elasticated waistband
  • Hemming and making a drawstring
  • Buttonholes
  • How to adapt a pattern to fit
  • How to achieve a professional finish

The course is taught as a two week evening course (6:30pm-9:30pm) at my studio Creative Space in Staple Hill or as a one day workshop (10am-4pm) at Creative Space, New Brewery Arts (Cirencester) and Prema Arts (Dursley). Prices vary depending on venue but starts at £95.

Upcoming workshop dates and venues (CLICK ON DATES FOR MORE INFO AND BOOKING)