• LATEST UPDATE!!!

    April to July 2024 course dates now available for booking!

      Are you a complete sewing newbie looking to make sense of how to use a sewing machine and/or wanting to have a taster session before committing yourself to a longer, more comprehensive course such as our Complete Beginners Sewing Course  or  Easy Pyjamas Intro to Sewing? Then this class is for you! On this two hour workshop you will learn all you need to know about using and making the most of a sewing machine and make a handy draw string bag to consolidate your newly learnt skills in the process. All materials will be provided so just bring yourself along and be prepared to have a lovely time! Please note that this session does not allow for time to set up and go through student's own machines. When joining this class you will have to use our machines. The basic principles to set up and use a sewing machine are the same for all models and any differences can be easily worked out by going through your own machine's manual once you have practiced on ours.

    What you will learn:

    • How to set up and thread a machine and how to wind a bobbin
    • How to set the correct tension
    • How to troubleshoot common problems
    • How to sew perfectly straight seams and how to finish them
    Dates
    • Sunday 21st April 2024, 4:30pm-6.30pm
    • Saturday 1st June 2024, 4:30pm-6.30pm
    • Friday 21st June 2024, 6:30pm-8.30pm
    • Sunday 14th July 2024, 4:30pm-6.30pm

    *The class will start promptly at the scheduled time. Please arrive five minutes early to allow time to settle.

    Anything else you’d like to know? Please read our  FAQs  page before contacting us! HAVING TROUBLE WITH YOUR BOOKING? PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR HELP. PLEASE CLICK ON THE DATES TO FIND OUT ABOUT AVAILABILITY!
  • LATEST UPDATE!!!

    April to June  2024 course dates now available for booking!

      This is the perfect sewing course for you if you are a complete beginner wishing to have a thorough introduction to using a sewing machine, learning different sewing techniques, understanding basic sewing patterns and learning basic cutting skills. This course consists of four two and three quarter hour sessions in which you will be taken from the very basics of setting up and threading a sewing machine to making a simple A-line skirt to show off your newly acquired sewing skills by the end of it! Please note that weekend courses cover 2 sessions per day, whether weekday ones are taught once a week for 4 consecutive weeks. You can choose to use one of our machines (we are a fully equipped studio with enough machines for all participants) or you’re very welcome to bring your own if you’d like to learn to use it, but please do let us know beforehand if you plan to do this as depending on the type of machine you have, it may not be suitable for some of the projects covered on this course. So... come along, be part of a lovely small group with plenty of individual attention from the tutor, learn to sew, chat and make friends. The tea and biscuits are on us! WHAT YOU WILL LEARN:
    • How to cut and pin fabric using a simple pattern
    • How to thread the machine and wind a bobbin
    • How to sew straight seams and how to finish them
    • How to create a fabulous covered button
    • Understanding and demystifying sewing patterns including their mysterious language and symbols
    • How to correctly take your measurements
    • How to alter the pattern and skirt to your perfect fit
    • How to insert a regular zip
    • How to finish a waistline with bias binding
    And much much more! SESSION 1- Button Down Cushion Make a fabulous cushion cover with a covered button perfect to jazz up your home or give away as a gift! SESSION  2- Tote Bag In this session you will take your skills further and gain extra confidence with your sewing by making a handy boxy tote bag What to bring: Nothing! You will be able to choose from a selection of our fabrics for both the cushion cover and tote bag at no extra cost! SESSIONS 3 & 4 - A-line Skirt Consolidate and build on the skills learnt in the previous sessions by taking them further with this simple dressmaking project packed with essential basic dressmaking techniques. WHAT TO BRING: Nothing! We have a lovely selection of suitable fabrics available to purchase during the course at very affordable prices and we also sell the necessary haberdashery needed for this project. If you would rather source your fabric elsewhere, we'll be able to give you advice during the course, however, due to beginners lack of fabric knowledge and the often ill advice given in fabric shops, we highly recommend our carefully selected fabrics, in order to avoid having to purchase fabric a second time, due to sourcing the wrong one in the first place. All classes include patterns and step by step illustrated instructions for each project completed so you can practice your newly acquired skills at home! Dates
    • Saturday 27th & Sunday 28th April 2024, 10:30am-4:30pm
    • Wednesday 1st, 8th, 15th & 22nd May 2024,10:30am-1:15pm
    • Thursday 2nd, 9th, 16th & 23rd May 2024, 6:30pm-9:15pm
    • Saturday 11th & Sunday 12th May 2024, 10:30am-4:30pm
    • Tuesday 7th, 14th, 21st & 28th May 2024, 10:30am-1:15pm
    • Tuesday 7th, 14th, 21st & 28th May 2024, 6:30pm-9:15pm
    • Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th May 2024, 10:30am-4:30pm
    • Thursday 30th May + 6th, 13th & 20th June 2024, 6:30pm-9:15pm
    • Tuesday 4th, 11th, 18th & 25th June 2024, 10:30am-1:15pm
    • Tuesday 4th, 11th, 18th & 25th June 2024, 6:30pm-9:15pm
    • Saturday 8th & Sunday 9th June 2024, 10:30am-4:30pm
    • Wednesday 12th, 19th & 26th June + 3rd July 2024, 10:30am-1:15pm
    • Saturday 22nd & Sunday 23rd June 2024, 10:30am-4:30pm

    * Please arrive 5 minutes early to ensure prompt start and to make the most of your class. Please bring a packed lunch for all day courses.

    Got some questions about this course? Please read our FAQs page before contacting us! HAVING TROUBLE WITH YOUR BOOKING? PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR HELP. PLEASE CLICK ON THE DATES TO FIND OUT ABOUT AVAILABILITY!
  • LATEST UPDATE!!!

    April to July 2024 course date now available for booking!

      Are you a complete sewing newbie wishing to have a great introduction to using a sewing machine while consolidating what you learn by making three fabulous accessories? Then this sewing class is perfect for you! On this course you will be taken from the very basics of setting up and threading a sewing machine to making a gorgeous infinity scarf, pretty makeup bag and handy tote bag. Perfect to keep for yourself or to give away as gifts! All materials are included. You will be able to choose from a selection of our fabrics at no extra cost. You will also receive Pdf instructions for each project, so you will be able to make more in your own time! Just come along, be part of a lovely small group with plenty of individual attention from the tutor, learn to sew, chat and make friends! What you will learn:
    • How to thread the machine and wind a bobbin
    • How to sew straight seams and how to finish them
    • How to draw a simple pattern directly onto fabric
    • How to insert a centered zip
    And much much more! Dates
    • Sunday 21st April 2024, 10:00am-3:30pm
    • Saturday 1st June 2024, 10:00am-3:30pm
    • Sunday 14th July 2024, 10:00am-3:30pm

    * Please arrive 5 minutes early to ensure prompt start and to make the most of your class. Please bring a packed lunch for all day courses.

    Need to know more? Please read our FAQs page before contacting us! HAVING TROUBLE WITH YOUR BOOKING? PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR HELP. PLEASE CLICK ON THE DATES TO FIND OUT ABOUT AVAILABILITY!
  • LATEST UPDATE!!!

    April to July 2024 course dates now available for booking!

      Are you looking for a sewing course that will teach you some essential sewing basics, while giving you an introduction to basic dressmaking? Do you wish to gain the confidence and inspiration you need to continue to experiment and learn to create many more exciting projects? Then this course is for you! The Easy Pyjamas Intro to Sewing course is a good introduction to sewing  and basic dressmaking suitable for complete sewing novices and those already able to use a sewing machine alike. On this course you will learn the very basics of sewing and of using a commercial pattern which you will then put into practice by making a fabulous pair of pyjama bottoms either long or *short suitable for both women and men! No previous experience is required in order to take this course. You may join this class as a complete newbie or after taking any other of our Beginners Classes. Although please note, most students do do this course as a follow up to one of the other beginner courses as it's an intense day of sewing! The class is taught in small groups, so there is plenty of individual attention and opportunity to chat and make friends! What you will learn:
    • How to set up and thread a sewing machine
    • How to sew straight and curved seams
    • How to troubleshoot sewing machine issues
    • How to read and understand a multi-sized sewing pattern including the markings and mysterious jargon that accompanies them
    • How to take your measurements
    • How to select the right pattern size for you
    • How to complete simple alterations to custom fit your pattern
    • How to correctly pin the pattern to your fabric and how to accurately cut it out
    • How to finish seams, insert elastic and create a simple hem
    What to bring: Nothing! We have the perfect fabrics and haberdashery for you to buy on the day, so just bring yourself! Dates
    • Saturday 20th April  2024, 10:30am-5:00pm
    • Friday 24th & 31st May 2024, 6:30pm-9:30pm
    • Sunday 2nd June  2024, 10:30am-5:00pm
    • Saturday 13th July  2024, 10:30am-5:00pm

    * Please arrive 5 minutes early to ensure prompt start and to make the most of your class. Please bring a packed lunch for all day courses.

    Anything else you'd like to know? Please read our FAQs page before contacting us.  HAVING TROUBLE WITH YOUR BOOKING? PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR HELP. PLEASE CLICK ON THE DATES TO CHECK AVAILABILITY!
  • LATEST UPDATE!!!

    April and June 2024 course date now available for booking!

     

    Are you able to use a sewing machine with confidence and sew in a straight line? Would you like to be able to alter and upcycle your clothes to breathe some new life into them and learn how to reshape them so they fit well?

      Then this course is for you! Come and join this full day class and learn invaluable alterations and upcycling techniques to build up the basic skills you need to alter your clothes, revamp your wardrobe and save a tonne of money! The course will consist of practical demonstrations followed by time for you to practice the techniques and alter some of your clothes in the remaining time. What you will learn
    • How to mark, unpick and pin alterations into place
    • How to insert elastic and stop it from twisting
    • How to take in or let out garments including adjusting waistbands
    • How to take up and let down hems
    • How to fix gaping necklines and reduce big shoulders
    • How to sew on buttons and other types of fastenings
    • How to hem jeans
    • How to create different types of hems both by hand and on the sewing machine
    • How to transform and reshape garments using different upcycling techniques and much more!
    What to bring Please bring a selection of clothes you would like to alter, especially items needing taking up or letting down, taking in or letting out, jeans etc... as well as a notebook and pen. PLEASE NOTE- This course is suitable for those able to use a sewing machine and a perfect follow up to some of our Beginners classes. If you have no previous sewing machine experience, you may join either our Complete Beginners Sewing Course, Easy Pyjamas,  or a combination of the former and  Ultimate Beginners (Gifts & Accessories), or   Boxy Tote Bag courses prior to attending this class. Dates
    • Wednesday 17th & 24th April 2024, 6:30pm-9:30pm
    • Saturday 15th June 2024, 10:30am-5:00pm

    * Please arrive 5 minutes early to ensure prompt start and to make the most of your class. Please bring a packed lunch for all day courses.

    Got some questions about this course? Please read our FAQs page before contacting us! HAVING TROUBLE WITH YOUR BOOKING? PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR HELP PLEASE CLICK ON THE DATES TO FIND OUT ABOUT AVAILABILITY!
  • May 2024 course dates now available for booking!

      Are you confident on the sewing machine? Have you made a few garments out of woven (non-stretchy) fabric, but are too scared to tackle a knit fabric project by yourself? Are you under the impression they cannot be sewn without an overlocker? Well, we've got news for you! Knits can indeed be beautifully sewn on a regular sewing machine with a few simple tricks! Wanna learn how? Come and join this fun class and learn to make our brand new Unisex Classic T-shirt pattern, which you’ll be able to take home for free and make more of this classic T-shirt... you’ll never need to buy another T-shirt again! The pattern can be adjusted to have a slighter wider crew neck and slightly longer or shorter sleeve or indeed hemline. Please note you will be making only one T-shirt on the course. What you will learn
    • Understand what jersey is and how it's different to woven fabric
    • Types of needles and stitches to sew jersey fabrics on a regular sewing machine
    • How to handle jersey fabric correctly
    • How to use a rotary cutter for accurate cutting
    • How to attach sleeves
    • How to achieve a professional look on hems using a twin needle
    • How to stretch and sew on a neckline binding without it gaping
    • How to make simple pattern alterations to widen neckline or lengthen/ shorten sleeves and or hem to your preference
    What do I need to bring? We have a small selection of standard colours (i.e navy, grey, white, black) of 100% cotton jerseys available to buy on the day for £9 a metre as well as matching threads. *If you would rather bring your own fabric please refer to the types and quantities specified below.
    • 1.5m length of 150cm wide stable knit fabric. *Please avoid thin jerseys as they are not ideal to start with.
    • Two reels of matching polyester thread (no cotton please!)
    Please make sure to pre-wash your fabric prior to attending the class if you are bringing your own. The class includes pattern and step by step illustrated instructions so you can make the T-shirt again and again at home! Dates
    • Sunday 5th May 2024, 10:30am-5:00pm
    • Wednesday 29th May + 5th June 2024, 10:30am-1:30pm

    * Please arrive 5 minutes early to ensure prompt start and to make the most of your class. Please bring a packed lunch for all day courses.

    Got some questions about this class? Please read our FAQs page before contacting us! HAVING TROUBLE WITH YOUR BOOKING? PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR HELP. PLEASE CLICK ON THE DATES TO FIND OUT ABOUT AVAILABILITY!
  • May and June 2024 course date now available for booking!   Can you thread up confidently, sew in a straight line and ziz-zag comfortably but would now like to move up to the next level? Would you like to learn other features of the sewing machine like how to sew buttonholes to learning techniques for fusing and guided methods for sewing on a waistband with a drawcord channel and elastic? If so, this is the course for you! This Easy wear draw-cord trouser with side pockets introduces you to all this and more! This one day intensive course is the perfect place for advanced beginners to expand their skill into easing you into trouser making and the perfect follow up to having completed a couple of our more beginner level courses or even one or two of our advance beginner level courses. In order to attend, you'd need to be fairly confident with the basics on the sewing machine, have completed a few basic sewing projects and at least one basic garment making project. *Please note that depending on how you do on the Complete Beginners Sewing Course or other beginner courses, you might still not be ready to move up to this course and might need more practice at a beginners level. In order to attend this course you are expected to be able to set up and use a sewing machine without assistance and have a fairly good sewing pace. You must also have a sewing machine at home or access to one, as you will have a few things to finish at home. This course will introduce you to an easy wear trouser pattern that you can adjust the length of according to your height and style preference. WHAT YOU WILL LEARN
    • How to accurately take your measurements to pick the correct pattern size for you.
    • How to alter the pattern to your required length
    • How to transfer pattern markings
    • How to sew in side pockets
    • How to deal with fusing a waistband
    • How to insert and handle wider width elastic
    • How to sew buttonholes
    • How to create and finish a hem and much more!
    WHAT TO BRING We have a lovely selection of suitable fabrics available to purchase during the course at very affordable prices. If you would rather bring your own fabric please refer to the quantities and types below. We also sell all the trim/ haberdashery needed for both projects including interfacing, elastic and threads. Fabrics & trims
    • All sizes 2.2m of 140 to 150cm wide woven or of 112 to 114cm wide woven fabric. (*Please let us know if your height is above 185cm as you may need extra fabric depending on how long you make the trousers)
    • 50cm of light fusible interfacing
    • 1m of 5cm wide elastic (if your waist measures more than 1m you may require more)
    • Matching thread
    • 1m length of 1cm wide draw-cord
    • 30cm of pocketing fabric (light cotton, preferably matching colour to main trouser fabric.
    *Important note: If you're bringing your own fabric, please make sure to pre-wash both the main fabric and pocketing fabric according to manufacturers instructions prior to attending the class in order to pre-shrink it. This does not apply to dry clean only fabrics. Check with the shop about fabric care when purchasing your material. If you're buying fabric from us on the day, you will be able to steam shrink it at the beginning of the class instead. All classes include patterns and step by step illustrated instructions, so no excuse not to practice your newly acquired skills at home and make these garments again and again! Dates
    • Saturday 4th May 2024, 10:30am-5:30pm
    • Sunday 16th June 2024, 10:30am-5:30pm
    * Please arrive 5 minutes early to ensure prompt start and to make the most of your class. Please bring a packed lunch for all day courses. Anything else you'd like to know? Please read our FAQs page before contacting us.  HAVING TROUBLE WITH YOUR BOOKING? PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR HELP. PLEASE CLICK ON THE DATES TO CHECK AVAILABILITY!
  • LATEST UPDATE!!!

    May and June 2024 course date now available for booking.

      Are you tired of making cushions, bags and garments with elasticated waistbands and would like to move up to the next level? Have you tried your hand at making up a simple garment using a "very easy" commercial pattern but it didn't turn out as well as you hoped it would? Would you like to start making yourself beautiful and unique clothes that fit like a glove but are too scared to go it alone? We don't blame you! Understanding commercial patterns, how to alter them in order to make garments that fit well and how to put into practice what's written and illustrated in their instructions can be very daunting if you're new to dressmaking, so let us help you with that! This two day course is the perfect place  for advanced beginners to get started on the real dressmaking journey and the perfect follow up to our  Complete Beginners Sewing Course . In order to attend, you'd  need to be very confident on the sewing machine, have completed a few basic sewing projects and at least one basic dressmaking project, or taken either our Complete Beginners Sewing Course or equivalent elsewhere, or a combination of two of our shorter beginners courses such our Ultimate Beginners (Gifts & Accessories) course followed by the Easy Pyjamas Intro to Sewing one. *Please note that depending on how you do on the Complete Beginners Sewing Course or other beginner courses, you might still not be ready to move up to this course and might need more practice at a beginners level. In order to attend this course you are expected to be able to set up and use  a sewing machine without assistance. You must also have a sewing machine at home or access to one, as you will have a few things to finish at home. This course will take you from making a super flattering circle skirt to completing a stylish shift dress in your preferred length (or you can make a top or tunic instead if you prefer!) providing you with the knowledge and confidence you need to get started on similar or more advanced projects at home. WHAT YOU WILL LEARN
    • How to accurately take your measurements
    • How to alter the pattern to fit you, including those much dreaded bust alterations!
    • How to construct and attach a lapped waistband
    • How to insert a centered zip
    • How to sew darts
    • How to attach a neckline facing
    • How to finish armholes with bias binding
    • How to create and finish a hem and much more!
    WHAT TO BRING We have a lovely selection of suitable fabrics available to purchase during the course at very affordable prices. If you would rather bring your own fabric please refer to the quantities and types below. We also sell all the haberdashery needed for both projects including interfacing, zips and threads. DAY 1: Circle Skirt
    • All sizes 2m of 140 to 150cm wide woven (non stretchy) fabric, or 3m of 112 to 114cm wide woven fabric. (*Please let us know if your waist measurement is above 90cm/35 1/2″ as you may need extra fabric depending on how long you would like your skirt)
    • 25cm of light fusible interfacing
    • Matching thread
    • 20cm regular zip (matching colour to your fabric)
    DAY 2: Dress, Tunic or Top *PLEASE NOTE ON DAY 2 YOU WILL ONLY BE MAKING ONE OF THE FOLLOWING GARMENTS BELOW NOT ALL THREE OF THEM. Please bring enough fabric for the one you decide to make. Dress
    • 1.5m of 140/150cm wide fabric or
    • 2.75m of 114cm wide fabric
    • 1m of 12mm wide bias binding
    • Matching thread
    • 25cm of light to medium fusible interfacing
    Tunic
    • 1m of 140/150cm wide fabric or
    • 2m of 114cm wide fabric
    • 1m of 12mm wide bias binding
    • Matching thread
    • 25cm of light to medium fusible interfacing
    Top
    • 75cm of 140/150cm wide fabric or
    • 1.5m of 114cm wide fabric
    • 1m of 12mm wide bias binding
    • Matching thread
    • 25cm of light to medium fusible interfacing
    Recommended fabrics: Woven (non-stretchy) fabrics such as medium weight cotton, cotton chambray, cotton lawn, poplin, linen, challis, lightweight denim, crepe, lightweight wool. *Please remember that very thin, shiny and slippery fabrics are difficult to handle and therefore not suitable for your level. *Important note: If you're bringing your own fabric, please make sure to pre-wash it according to manufacturers instructions prior to attending the class in order to pre-shrink it. This does not apply to dry clean only fabrics. Check with the shop about fabric care when purchasing your material. If you're buying fabric from us on the day, you will be able to steam shrink it at the beginning of the class instead. All classes include patterns and step by step illustrated instructions, so no excuse not to practice your newly acquired skills at home and make these garments again and again!   Dates
    • Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th May 2024, 10:30am-5:30pm
    • Saturday 29th & Sunday 30th June 2024, 10:30am-5:30pm

    * Please arrive 5 minutes early to ensure prompt start and to make the most of your class. Please bring a packed lunch for all day courses.

    Got a question for us? Please check our  FAQs  before contacting us! Having trouble completing the booking?  HAVING TROUBLE WITH YOUR BOOKING? PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR HELP. PLEASE CLICK ON THE DATES TO FIND OUT ABOUT AVAILABILITY!
  • June course date now available to book!

     

    This course is aimed at those who want to learn the skills of shirt making from start to finish. It is aimed at intermediate sewers who must have previous sewing experience.

    This Unisex Shirt making course is ideal for those of you who are looking to improve your precision and confidence in garment making by learning a wide range of classic shirt making techniques. You will learn all the fundamental features of shirt making including learning to sew a classic two piece collar, how to handle tricky plackets and cuff openings, how to make button holes and plenty of other useful transferable sewing techniques and methods.

    The shirt pattern is a unisex boxy style shirt that is designed to suit and fit a wide range of body shapes. You will have the opportunity to adjust the length according to your preference but please note, the focus of this course is not on pattern fitting and rather on learning the skills of shirt making. The style is a modern loose fit (you can always make a size down if you prefer a closer fit). Depending on the fabric choice, it is more shirt like out of a lighter weight fabric and a bit more like an outer shirt/ jacket like if the fabric is heavier. This is a versatile piece that is classic, useful and a staple in any contemporary wardrobe.

    This 12 hour course runs as a weekly in studio course (3 hours per week for 4 consecutive weeks).

    * Please note, you must also have a sewing machine at home or access to one, as it is likely you will have homework between sessions.

    WHAT YOU WILL LEARN

    • How to accurately take your measurements to pick the correct pattern size for you
    • How to alter the pattern to your required length
    • Transfer pattern markings
    • Interfacing/ fusing the required shirt pieces
    • French seams
    • Patch pocket
    • Inserting inset sleeves
    • Sewing a grown-on button stand
    • Sewing and attaching a classic collar and collar stand construction
    • Cuffs with a placket opening and pleats too
    • How to sandwich a double back yoke
    • Sewing on buttons
    • How to make button holes
    • How to sew a curved hem

    WHAT TO BRING

    We have a lovely selection of suitable fabrics available to purchase during the course at very affordable prices. If you would rather bring your own fabric please refer to the quantities and types below. We also sell a limited selection of the trim/ haberdashery needed for both projects including interfacing, buttons and threads.

    Fabrics & trims

    Light to medium weight woven fabrics are most advisable for this project. Cotton poplin, lawn, chambray, lightweight denim, oxford cotton and cotton shirting will all give a crisp finish, whilst linen, rayon, fine needlecord, brushed cotton and flannel will have a more casual feel.

    The Unisex Shirt covers UK women’s sizes 6-22 and UK men’s sizes XS- XXL.

    • 1.8m - 2.5m of 140 to 150cm wide woven required (lower end required for smaller sizes and more for larger sizes).
    • 75cm of light fusible interfacing
    • Matching thread
    • 11-13 buttons per shirt (approximately 11mm wide)

    *Important note: If you’re bringing your own fabric, please make sure to pre-wash your fabric according to manufacturers instructions prior to attending the class in order to pre-shrink it. This does not apply to dry clean only fabrics. Check with the shop about fabric care when purchasing your material. If you’re buying fabric from us on the day, you will be able to steam shrink it at the beginning of the class instead.

    All classes include patterns and step by step illustrated instructions, so no excuse not to practice your newly acquired skills at home and make yourself or something one a lovely versatile shirt!

    Dates

    • Wednesday 5th, 12th, 19th & 26th June 2024, 5:30pm-8:15pm

    * Please arrive 5 minutes early to ensure prompt start and to make the most of your class.

    Anything else you'd like to know? Please read our FAQs page before contacting us.  HAVING TROUBLE WITH YOUR BOOKING? PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR HELP. PLEASE CLICK ON THE DATES TO CHECK AVAILABILITY!
  • BOXY TOTE BAG

    £55.00 Inc.Vat

    Sorry, no dates available at the moment. Please register your interest to be notify when new dates are released.

    Are you a complete sewing newbie? Are you feeling daunted at the thought of using a sewing machine? Does it feel like rocket science to you? Are you looking for a crush course that teaches how to use a sewing machine as well as how to use simple sewing patterns and  basic cutting skills? Did you know that, when taught by someone who knows what they're doing, learning to use a sewing machine is easy and fun? We promise - this workshop is exactly what you're looking for! After spending three hours with one of our expert tutors, you will come away feeling confident, proud of your achievements and inspired to practice and learn more. Plus, you will be the owner of a fabulous new boxy tote bag :) What's there not to like??? And it gets even better! All materials are included free of cost, you get to keep the pattern so you can make more bags at home, and you will receive step-by-step Pdf instructions! No previous sewing machine experience is necessary in order to join this workshop. You will also benefit from it if you have previously taken our Learn to Use a Sewing Machine workshop or, our Ultimate Beginners Intro to Sewing (Gifts & Accessories) Course and you'd like a refresher, or if  after taking those classes you want to learn to work with simple accessory type sewing patterns and gain some basic cutting experience. So just come along, be part of a lovely small group with plenty of individual attention from the tutor, learn to sew, chat and make friends! WHAT YOU WILL LEARN:
    • How to set up and thread a sewing machine and how to wind a bobbin
    • How to cut and pin fabric using a simple pattern
    • How to sew straight seams and how to finish them with zigzag stitching
    • How to sew corners
    • How to create a boxy shape
    • How to troubleshoot common sewing machine issues
    And much more! *Please note that this session does not allow for time to set up and go through student’s own machines. When joining this class you will have to use our machines. The basic principles to set up and use a sewing machine are the same for all models and any differences can be easily worked out by going through your own machine’s manual once you have practiced on ours. Dates
    • No dates available at the moment.
    Anything else you’d like to know? Please read our  FAQs  page before contacting us! HAVING TROUBLE WITH YOUR BOOKING? PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR HELP.
  • Out of stock

    Sorry no dates available at the moment. Please contact us to register your interest in further dates and be notified when new dates are released

     

    We are excited to introduce to you our brand new Learn to Sew a Face Mask class!

    We thought seeing as though it’s become a necessity in these uncertain times, why not learn to make your very own face mask?

    You will benefit from this class if you have previously taken our Learn to Use a Sewing Machine workshop or, our Ultimate Beginners Intro to Sewing (Gifts & Accessories) Course and you’d like a refresher. It’s also just great if you are keen to learn to make your own face mask 🙂

    In this workshop you will get an introduction to setting up the machine and understanding what the sewing machine has to offer, followed by preparing, cutting and then sewing up your very own face mask with elastic loops.

    What’s there not to like??? And it gets even better! All materials, a section of lovely plain and printed cottons to choose from are included free of cost, you get to keep the pattern so you can make more masks at home, and you will receive step-by-step Pdf instructions too!

    Just bring yourself along and be prepared to have a lovely time! Please note that this session does not allow for time to set up and go through student’s own machines. When joining this class you will have to use our machines. The basic principles to set up and use a sewing machine are the same for all models and any differences can be easily worked out by going through your own machine’s manual once you have practiced on ours.

    What you will learn:

    • How to set up and thread a machine and how to wind a bobbin
    • How to set the correct tension
    • How to troubleshoot common problems
    • How to cut and pin fabric using a simple pattern
    • How to sew perfectly straight seams and a curved seam too!
    • How to handle elastic
    • How to sew corners

    Dates

    No dates available at moment. Please register your interest to be notified when a new date is released.

    Anything else you’d like to know? Please read our  FAQs  page before contacting us!

    HAVING TROUBLE WITH YOUR BOOKING? PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR HELP.

    PLEASE CLICK ON THE DATES TO FIND OUT ABOUT AVAILABILITY!

  • Gift Voucher

    £50.00 Inc.Vat
    Voucher redeemable against the value of any available classes and valid for six calendar months from the date of purchase. Please note that you will be sent an E-voucher via email for you to print at home. Your voucher will be emailed to you within 24 hours of purchase if bought during working days. All vouchers bought after 5:30pm on a Friday will be emailed on the next working day. *All vouchers are non-refundable and cannot be used in conjunction with discount codes.
  • Gift Voucher

    £100.00 Inc.Vat
    Voucher redeemable against the value of any existing classes and valid for six calendar months from the date of purchase. Please note that you will be sent an E-voucher via email for you to print at home. Your voucher will be emailed to you within 24 hours of purchase if bought during working days. All vouchers bought after 5:30pm on a Friday will be emailed on the next working day. *All vouchers are non-refundable and cannot be used in conjunction with discount codes.
  • Gift Voucher

    £10.00 Inc.Vat
    Voucher redeemable against the value of any available classes and valid for six calendar months from the date of purchase. Please note that you will be sent an E-voucher via email for you to print at home. Your voucher will be emailed to you within 24 hours of purchase if bought during working days. All vouchers bought after 5:30pm on a Friday will be emailed on the next working day. *All vouchers are non-refundable and cannot be used in conjunction with discount codes.
  • Gift voucher

    £5.00 Inc.Vat
    Voucher redeemable against the value of any available classes and valid for six calendar months from the date of purchase. Please note that you will be sent an E-voucher via email for you to print at home. Your voucher will be emailed to you within 24 hours of purchase if bought during working days. All vouchers bought after 5:30pm on a Friday will be emailed on the next working day. *All vouchers are non-refundable and cannot be used in conjunction with discount codes.
  • Out of stock
    THIS COURSE IS CURRENTLY DISCONTINUED Are you looking to build on your dressmaking skills? Do you struggle to find trousers that fit well? Have your previous trousers making attempts resulted in a disaster or have you been too scared to attempt this garment by yourself? We hear you! Achieving a well fitting pair of trousers is no easy task UNLESS you have the help of some super skilled pros! So... if you'd like your first (or second!) pair of trousers to be a success, look no further than this class! On this course you will learn to alter the pattern to fit your shape and measurements to create a great fit. You will then learn some great construction techniques such as darts, facing a waist and inserting a concealed zip. PLESE NOTE: We have ready made toiles (test garments) for you to try on so the tutor can establish the necessary pattern alterations. Please be aware that depending on your size and shape, you might need to make your own toile first before cutting into your fabric. Once we fine tune your toile and pattern, you may cut out you fabric and get started on the sewing. This may result in having to finish your trousers at home (don't worry, we'll give you plenty of instruction!) and if you've never inserted a concealed zip before, you'll be given the opportunity to practice this in class. However, making a toile will not be necessary if one of our own toiles fits you reasonably well, in which case you'll be able to move straight onto altering your pattern and cutting into your fabric. So! Are you ready to take your dressmaking and pattern alterations skills to the next level??? Then come along and be part of a lovely group, learn some invaluable skills, chat and make friends. The tea and biscuits are on us! NECESSARY EXPERIENCE: To be able to attend this course you need to be very confident on the sewing machine as well as be able to sew at a good speed and have previous experience of working with dressmaking patterns. You will also need to have previously completed our Complete Beginners Sewing Course,  and our Advanced Beginners Dressmaking Course or equivalent elsewhere. Alternatively you would need to have previously undertaken some dressmaking projects independently. WHAT TO BRING We have a lovely selection of suitable fabrics available to purchase on the day at very affordable prices. If you would rather bring your own fabric please refer to the quantities and types below. We also sell all the haberdashery needed for both projects including interfacing, zips and threads. Materials Required:
    • Sizes 8 to 12 – 2m of 150cm wide fabric or 2.50m of 114cm wide fabric
    • Sizes 14 to 20- 2.5m of 150cm wide fabric or 2.75m of 114cm wide fabric
    • Matching thread and a 9″ invisible zip (if bringing your own fabric)
    Suitable fabrics: Medium weight woven fabrics with 2-3% elastane such as medium weight stretch cotton, stretch cotton drill, stretch gabardine, light to medium weight stretch denim, stretch crepe. Please allow extra fabric if choosing a material with bold patterns or checks. Not suitable for diagonals. *Important note: If you’re bringing your own fabric, please make sure to pre-wash it according to manufacturers instructions prior to attending the class in order to pre-shrink it. This does not apply to dry clean only fabrics. Check with the shop about fabric care when purchasing your material. If you’re buying fabric from us on the day, you will be able to steam shrink it instead. The class includes pattern and step by step illustrated instructions, so no excuse not to practice your newly acquired skills at home and make this trousers again and again! Got a question for us? Please read our  FAQs  page before contacting us. PLEASE CLICK ON THE DATES TO CHECK AVAILABILITY
  • Out of stock
    THIS COURSE IS CURRENTLY DISCONTINUED Are you a budding home sewer with some garment making experience who often struggles with achieving a good fit on your projects? Maybe you are full or small busted, have a broad back, narrow shoulders or full thighs...fitting issues can be endless, and often the problem is that you might not know how to fix them. Well... because we are very aware of the problems home dressmakers can come across, we have created the perfect course to help you identify and fix all the head-scratching fitting issues that are standing in the way between you and perfectly fitting projects! Because of their extensive dressmaking and pattern cutting experience, our tutors can help you identify, address and fix any issues you may be struggling with. During this course you will work on fitting and toiling a basic semi-fitted dress pattern with sleeves. What you will learn:
    • Getting to know your body shape and identifying your own unique fitting issues
    • Learning how to alter the pattern in order to achieve a great fit
    • How to check for further fitting issues after having made up a toile (test garment) and how to transfer the changes onto the pattern
    Course structure: Weeks 1 & 2 - Fitting the bodice Week 3 - Fitting the sleeves Week 4 - Fitting the skirt PLEASE NOTE that you will have to do some of the toile sewing at home in between classes. You will be provided with the pattern free of charge but will have to purchase calico for the toiles and so you know we do have calico available to buy in our studio  :) *This class is not suitable for beginners. You will need to have completed some sewing and dressmaking projects prior to attending this course . Please arrive 5 minutes early to allow time to settle and ensure prompt start. There will be tea and biscuits to keep you going sweetly though the session! Anything else you’d like to know? Please read our FAQs page before contacting us! PLEASE CLICK ON THE DATES TO CHECK AVAILABILITY
  • Out of stock
    THIS CLASS IS CURRENTLY DISCONTINUED Are you looking for a quick and fun project that can be completed in just a few hours? Do you have fabric scraps you don't know how to utilize? Are you stuck for handmade gifts ideas?  Are you looking for a gentle, yet fun introduction to lingerie sewing? Would you like to expand your sewing skills by learning to work with small seam allowances and narrow elastics? Would you like to learn to sew something that will make great use of those leftover fabrics that are forever lying unused in your stash? If this sounds like you, this fun and practical workshop is an absolute must! Come and joins us for a fun evening and learn to sew a beautiful, quick project! On this class you will be shown how to alter the pattern to your measurements (if necessary). You'll be guided through the necessary steps to make a pair of super cute knickers out of lightweight cotton and lingerie elastic,  learning all the tips and tricks for working with small seam allowances and narrow elastic! *Please note that you need to be very confident on the sewing machine and have completed at least a few simple projects and ideally some basic garments prior to joining this class. Ideally you would have completed our Complete Beginners Sewing Course or equivalent and had some further practice beyond that. If you're a complete beginner why not take one of our Beginners Classes to get you started? What to bring: Nothing! We have the perfect fabric and elastic for you to buy on the day. You will also receive PDF instructions so you can make make many more at home! Got any questions you'd like to ask? Please read our  FAQs  page before contacting us! PLEASE CLICK ON THE DATE TO FIND OUT ABOUT AVAILABILITY!    
  • LATEST UPDATE!!!

    May 2024 course date now available for booking!

      Do you have a favourite garment that fits you perfectly and would love to recreate it? Then this all day workshop is for you! This course will teach you how to copy your clothes by making a pattern from an existing garment. You will leave the class with a perfectly fitted pattern and toile (test garment) ready to be made up as many times as you like and in all kinds of fabulous fabrics! So, if you like the sound of this here we we go! What you will learn:
    • Copying the shape of your garment
    • Transferring seam lines, darts, gathers, tucks and any other design details
    • Adding seam allowances
    • Adding markings such as notches and balance marks
    • Reproducing pockets and any other design details
    • Making up a toile (test garment) to check the fit.
    *Please note that this course is not suitable for beginners. You'll need to have made a few garments as well as have some basic construction skills prior to attending the course. Because of the limited time frame, we recommend you bring something that is not too complicated. If in doubt, you could bring more than one garment and get advice from your tutor. Please note that depending on the scale of your project and on your skill level, you might not be able to get to the toile stage, but will however leave with the pattern ready to test at home. What to bring: To make your toile, please bring a length of calico or other cheap material as close as possible in weight and drape to the fabric you intend to use for the final garment. Dates
    • Wednesday 22nd & 29th May 2024, 6:30pm-9:30pm

    * Please arrive 5 minutes early to ensure prompt start and to make the most of your class.

    Anything else you’d like to know? Please read our FAQs page before contacting us! PLEASE CLICK ON THE DATES TO CHECK AVAILABILITY
  • 2024 course date coming soon!

      Are you a a keen sewer with a few dressmaking projects under your belt, willing to expand your understanding of how patterns are drafted? Do you wish to learn how to draft a basic bodice block you will be able to use as a template to create endless designs? Do you wish to be able to create patterns that will require a minimal amount of alterations? Then this course ifs for you! With the help of our expert tutors, you will be guided through the process of drafting a basic bodice block based on your own measurements and take away a block to create patterns that fit you like a glove! The course will consist of two sessions with some homework in between.

    Session 1

    • Taking accurate measurements
    • Drafting the block following your measurements

    Homework 

    Cutting out and sewing the toile (test garment) together

    Session 2

    • Checking the toile's fit and making any necessary alterations
    • Transferring the alterations to the block
    • Cutting and sewing the final toile

    What to Bring

    1 metre of calico fabric. All other tools and equipment will be provided. Dates
    • Coming Soon
    Got a question for us? Please check our  FAQs  before contacting us! PLEASE CLICK ON THE DATES TO CHECK AVAILABILITY
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