Course Outline:

From Fabric to Fashion: A 6-Hour Sewing Workshop for Beginners and Intermediates

Are you ready to unleash your creativity and embark on a sewing journey from scratch to a finished project? Join us for a fun and informative 6-hour sewing workshop suitable for both beginners and intermediate sewers. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll engage in group learning learning essential sewing skills, gain confidence in using a sewing machine, and create a beautiful, functional project with 1on1 guidance of our experienced instructor. The College will provide sewing machines onsite if needed, and overlockers during class time.

Please note you do not need to have an overlocker machine for this course.

For Pippas class : Intermediate’s Welcome

Limit of 9 students.

• Introduction: We’ll start the day with a welcome and an icebreaker and a brief overview of essential sewing tools. Whether you’re a complete novice or have some experience, this session will ensure everyone is on the same page.
• Machine Basics: Learn how to operate a sewing machine safely and confidently. You’ll practice stitching, threading the machine, and winding a bobbin.
• Fabric Fundamentals: Understanding fabric grain, and tips for cutting fabric accurately.
• Pattern Reading: Understand how to read and interpret sewing patterns. We’ll walk through pattern markings, layout, and cutting out your project pieces.
• Sewing Techniques: Master fundamental sewing techniques like straight seams, curves, pivoting, and backstitching. We’ll also cover seam allowances, pressing, and finishing techniques. Two overlockers are available for use during the workshop
• Project Creation: Put your new skills to the test as you create a project chosen by you.
• Troubleshooting and Tips: Throughout the workshop, our instructor will provide expert tips, tricks, and solutions to common sewing challenges.
• Final Finishing: Learn how to add closures, hem your project, and give it a professional touch.
• Q&A and Feedback: Throughout the workshop, you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions and receive guidance and feedback on your completed project.

What to Bring:

Patterns

Please buy an easy pattern for your first few projects. eg Butterick, McCalls, Simplicity, Burda easy, or New Look. It is recommended that for your first few projects you purchase an elasticized waist pants or shorts (pyjama type) pattern, or a simple straight or A-line skirt pattern.

Please note: Paper patterns are multi sized.

Using a tape measure, you will need to take your measurements then check the measurements on the pattern to ensure have the pattern that will actually fit you. DO NOT rely on your standard size from your regular clothing brands.

*If you have made a few projects before, have some practice or are a little bit out of practice, choose easy and Medium patterns

Fabrics

The reverse of your pattern envelope will tell you how much fabric you need to buy (it’s in very small writing somewhere) Generally 150cm is ample for any project. I recommend spending less than $15/metre on entry level fabrics. We recommend choosing a cotton, rayon or linen fabric for the first garment. N.B. Avoid stripes, checks, velvets, soft sheer fabrics, and stretch knit fabrics. Please ask the shop assistant to help you with the fabric choice and quantity.

You need to pre shrink your fabric prior to cutting it, so please wash and dry your fabric before your first lesson.

Threads

Please buy at least two 100m-200m spools of quality 120 spun polyester dressmaking thread to match your fabric colour. Choose thread brands such as Rasant, Coats Astra, Metrosene or Gutterman.

Sewing machines

You do not need to own a sewing machine or overlocker for use in class, as the college provides Bernina sewing machines and overlockers. If you wish to bring your own machine to class to learn more about it and become more comfortable please also bring the instruction manuals, foot control, and accessories.

About the Tutor

Pippa May has 20 years experience in the Australian fashion industry working in small business as well as some of the most prestigious fashion houses. She has a wide ranging skill set in construction and finishing techniques from couture to leather to swimwear and everything in between. 

She will be teaching you multiple construction techniques, provide support with choosing appropriate fabrics, and advice on correcting fitting issues. 

She is passionate about textiles and clothing and has an easy going communication style whilst focusing on results. "