Home Sewing and Garment Making Short Course
Course description
Course overview
This garment making course will begin by analysing your chosen pattern deciphering the markings and terminology. Working in small groups, of no more than 12, you will learn everything you need to be able to make clothes (top, skirt, dress or trousers) from a bought pattern.
You will discover how to layout and mark your fabric correctly, before cutting out your garment pieces. You will also be introduced the professional industrial-standard sewing machines, where you will be shown how to complete several types of stitching for you to assemble your finished garment. With the guidance of the tutor, you will work your way through the construction process to create a practice garment, altering as necessary to ensure a good fit. Once happy with your garment, you will be able to recreate it in the fabric of your choice.
Who this course is for
This course is suitable for anyone interested in home sewing and making garments, regardless of prior experience. Beginners are welcome, as are those looking to expand existing knowledge.
Key information
Topics covered
- Taking measurements
- Preparing fabrics
- Laying and cutting
- Marking
- Sewing and fitting
- Pressing and finishing
Learning outcomes
- Be introduced to professional industrial-standard sewing machines and techniques
- Learn everything you need to make clothes from a bought pattern
- Digital badge and certificate of attendance
Materials
- Metric tape measure
- Dressmaker pins
- Fabric scissors
- Paper scissors
- Thimble
- 30cm ruler
- Glue stick
- Pencil, pen and notebook
- Tailors chalk (1 white and 1 pink or blue)
- Hand sewing needles 2 or 3 different colours of thread (for tailor tacking)
- Stitch unpicker
You will also need to purchase one pattern for a simple, non-lined top, dress, trouser or skirt and enough fabric to make your chosen garment at the end of the course. Fabric type and amount will be specified on your chosen pattern.
You should choose your pattern from any of the following pattern catalogues:
- Butterick
- Fast and Easy
- Very easy pattern
- Simplicity
You must choose a pattern that is closest to your size. These patterns can normally be purchased from any fabric/dressmaking shop or from John Lewis (Oxford Street). You will be supplied calico for making a practice garment, known as a toile.
Please do not select a pattern that requires stretch fabric as this requires specialist machinery that is not covered on this course.
Tutor
Banetta Sawyers
Banetta has worked in various sample rooms over the years, including 10 years in Monsoon sample room after developing her skills, and for British Designer Matthew Williamson. Banetta has worked with UAL, London College of Fashion for over 24 years as a learning and teaching Specialised Garment Technician. This allows her to teach and explore different ways of imparting her skills to students.
Maxine Vernon
I have over 20 Years sewing experience in industry with various designers, many established companies staring at Frank Usher Evening wear to Marks and Spencer day wear, therefore I have a very broad knowledge and understanding of how to skilfully assemble garments ranging from a simple skirt to Evening/ Bridal wear/ tailoring.
I also have Teacher training qualifications of which I have been enjoying teaching and sharing my sewing/ tailoring skills with international individuals for the last 18 plus years at LCF and at other Universities/ schools.
Book a course
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