Getting started with dressmaking (09V61FC/18)


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Adult Learning Beverley
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Course details

Applicable fees
Total £74.00
Tuition Fees£68.00
Materials£6.00
This is a full fee course
Have you ever looked at custom clothing and wondered how to get started with making your own? Or maybe you have a sewing machine but you’ve never managed to progress beyond the basics?

Making (or modifying) your own clothes is really satisfying, great for the environment, can save you lots of money – and is also pretty tricky to learn. That’s why we have this four week course, to help you learn some great foundation skills that will allow you to start creating right away – and give you a brilliant base to build on if you want to learn more.

You’ll learn the basics of dressmaking including pattern cutting, basic sewing techniques and have an introduction to the sewing machine (along with some basic sewing machine stitches). You’ll also find out about things you’ll need to consider, like how to read commercial patterns, how seams work and much more.

This course is ideal if you have never tried dressmaking before and would like to experience and explore the basic techniques required to create your own pieces – or if you have some experience, but you’d like to brush up on your skills, or learn more. You will be able to take home with you any pieces you make on the course.

What do I need to join the course?

Some basic maths skills would be an advantage as you will need to be able to do some simple calculations to use rulers and other measuring equipment.

What do I need to bring with me to the first session?

You will need to purchase a Newlook pattern K6483, for this course and bring along either cotton fabric or poly cotton with matching thread. This will be needed from week two, so if you are unsure then please wait and talk to your tutor in week one. If you have your own dressmaking scissors, chalk, pencil and tape measure then please bring them with you, however, don’t worry if not, as we will have supplies available in the classroom.

How will I be taught?

You will be taught and supported by an experienced and enthusiastic tutor, take part in a range of activities including demonstrations, group and individual work and receive support for your own ideas. You may wish to carry out work outside the classroom to ensure you gain the required skills and knowledge to achieve.

What will I learn?

On the course you will learn:

  • the basics of the sewing machine
  • how to read a commercial pattern
  • about seams and seam allowance
  • how to do a lay plan, cut and pin fabric correctly
  • how a facing works
  • how to construct a top.

What could I do next?

You may wish to develop your skills further with our developing dressmaking skills course. Your tutor will provide more information about this at the end of your course You may also consider some of our other Adult Learning courses such as soft furnishings, interior design, machine embroidery, mindfulness and photography or computer skills, English, maths and employability courses.

Can we help you to learn?

You can find more information on the Financial help and additional support page or you can contact us to talk about this and any other support we can provide.

Venue Details

Adult Learning Beverley
Adult Learning Centre, Burden Road, Beverley
HU17 9LW

01482 887670