This 10-week course is suitable for beginners looking to learn basic dressmaking skills to create custom clothing and transform beautiful fabrics into wearable fashion. Please note that although it is not compulsory, some basic knowledge of a sewing machine would be very useful. If you are completely new to sewing machines, you may want to consider attending our short ‘getting to know a sewing machine’ workshop, which is being held on 11 January.
During this course your tutor will guide you through the process of using a sewing machine to develop basic dressmaking skills. Participants will learn about essential sewing techniques, understanding patterns, fabric selection, and garment construction. You will learn how to sew seams, hems, zips, pockets, applique, buttonholes and how to sew on buttons. You will then put these skills together by learning to follow a pattern to produce a Toile, which is a practice mock up garment.
This course aims to provide a solid foundation in dressmaking, enabling participants to take on their own sewing projects at home.
No - this course is suitable for complete beginners. If you have used a sewing machine before this would be an advantage, but is not essential. If you are completely new to sewing machines, you may want to consider attending our short ‘getting to know a sewing machine’ workshop, which is being held on 11 January.
Please feel free to bring along your own fabrics; it may also be possible to purchase additional items from the tutor during the course. Your tutor will advise further in the first session.
On completion, students may wish to progress onto our Dressmaking for Improvers course to further advance your skill base.