Clothes Making

What will the course Cover?

In this course, you will enhance your sewing skills and techniques. You will learn to use a sewing machine more effectively, including threading and winding the bobbin correctly. The course will cover how to work from a commercial pattern, read and adjust it to suit your personal fit, and take accurate body measurements to select the appropriate size. You will produce a simple garment using a commercial pattern, with or without lining, as advised by the tutor at the beginning of the course. This course does not include pattern making. You will also learn to select suitable fabrics for your chosen pattern, interpret and read pattern instructions, and cut out and lay up the pattern correctly. Throughout the course, you will sew a garment using a range of sewing techniques while incorporating good health and safety practices.

Who is this course for?

This course is for learners that have completed the beginner’s course or who have some experience in dressmaking and are looking to develop their skills. You will also be competent in using a sewing machine.

What skills, knowledge or experience do I need to start this course?

To start this course, you should have basic machine sewing skills. You need to be able to operate a sewing machine safely and efficiently, including using different stitches and understanding machine maintenance. Additionally, you should have some experience with fitting techniques to ensure your garments are well-tailored.

What should I be able to do by the end of the course?

Demonstrate the ability to apply Health and Safety procedures in a sewing room. Thread and use a domestic sewing machine safely and accurately. Cut out garments with precision. Follow instructions set out in a commercially produced paper pattern. Make accurate tailors tacks to mark placement for darts, buttons etc. Make necessary adjustments to garments. Produce neatly sewn darts. Produce zip openings. Attach buttons. Choose correct interfacing to suit weight and colour of fabric. Experienced students can build on existing skills by working on garments with a greater degree of difficulty and involving new techniques.

How is the course organised?

Through practical demonstrations and one-to-one support. Participation in group discussions and feedback are encouraged.

What extra study or practice is expected outside of the class?

Additional / extension tasks may be set for you to complete at home and outside of the course hours. Completion of additional tasks is encouraged to help you get the most out of the course. Where required your tutor will discuss these with you during each session.

How will my progress be assessed?

Continuous assessment will occur in class and the Individual Learning Plan will be used to monitor progress and give feedback between learner and tutor.

What can I expect to go on to after this course?

You could enrol on a Pattern Making for Beginners course to develop your skills. You may also want to consider courses in hand and machine stitch embroidery.

Are there any other costs and what do I need to bring?

Please bring a basic sewing kit and an A4 ringbinder, paper and pen to the first class. Fabrics and patterns to be advised by the tutor.

What support is available?

Help with literacy or numeracy is available through the basic education programme and the ESOL programme offers help for speakers of other languages. Additional support can be provided for students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities. Details are available in the Course Guide or from teaching or reception staff.