Sewing - Making Clothes - Beginners

Course intent

In this sewing class we welcome those wishing to begin their ‘sewing’ journey & those returning from the various introduction workshops.

You will work on your own project that suits your abilities and pace. The tutor will take turns to work with each person individually in the class to guide you through your project. Within this group you also have opportunities to observe and learn from each other’s works to gain a wider knowledge of sewing.

What will I learn?

You will cover the following areas as required to complete the project chosen:

Pattern and fabric selection

Sewing equipment

Sewing machine skills

Hand sewing and finishing skills

Correct fitting and pattern sizing

Pattern alterations for fit or redesign

Seam and raw edge finishes

Necklines and collars

Sleeves and cuffs

Openings and fastenings including zips

Hems and edge finishes

Taking up hemlines on trousers or skirts

Taking a pattern from a much-loved garment in order to reproduce it

Altering garments either to fit or to completely re-invent them.

Who is this course for? Is there anything I need to know before joining?

Beginners (& those who may have completed a one-day workshop

What do I need to bring to the first class? Will there be any extra costs?

You need to bring:

Fabric that you would like to use, basic sewing kit, fabric and paper scissors, tape measure, ruler, dressmaking pins, tracing wheel, machine thread, pencil eraser, note pad.

If this is the first time you are going to sew, please bring some spare fabric for practising on the machine.

You are also very welcome to discuss your requirements with the tutor before the class starts.

Please email the tutor at meiwen.wang@surreycc.gov.uk before the session with details of your intended project.

What can I do when I finish the course?

In discussion with your tutor, you may like to progress onto further sewing and dressmaking courses.

Additional information

We welcome learners with additional needs and disabilities. When you enrol, please let us know if you would like to discuss your extra support needs with a member of the Supported Learning Team who will then contact you as soon as possible. If you are enrolling within 10 days of the course start date, we may not be able to contact you before your first class.

How to enrol

Our courses are for adult learners aged 19 or over. If you are under 19, please call 0300 200 1044.

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