Clothes Making Advanced: Fine Garment Construction and Sewing Projects

About this course

Participants develop advanced garments through a tutor-selected project, working on cutting, fitting and construction techniques linked to the term’s theme. Teaching combines whole-class instruction, demonstrations, discussions, technical materials and one-to-one support, with regular feedback during the project. The course focuses on using and adjusting commercial patterns, incorporating advanced fabrics and trimmings, resolving construction problems and applying detailed finishing methods. Projects are intended to build on existing garment-making skills and may be completed for personal use or professional garment production.

What you'll learn

• Adjust commercial patterns incorporating advanced construction features
• Select and use advanced fabrics and trimmings
• Resolve construction problems and work through decisions independently
• Apply advanced garment construction and fine finishing techniques

Is this course right for you?

This advanced course is intended for learners with substantial existing garment-making experience. The stated level suggests participants should already be able to adjust patterns, construct and finish garments using hand and machine techniques, and resolve intermediate construction problems independently. Class activities can involve standing at high tables.

• Equivalent experience or completion of two or more intermediate-level courses is expected
• Fluent English reading, writing and comprehension are required
• Learners should be prepared to work independently within a tutor-selected project
• Some activities involve using machinery and specialist equipment after a health and safety induction

Before you go

• Participants must provide a basic sewing kit, pattern-drafting tools, stationery and their own project materials, haberdashery and threads.
• A pattern selected by the tutor must be purchased for the term’s project.
• Pattern paper and card are available in the studios, and some pattern-cutting tools are provided for shared use.
• A health and safety induction is required before using machinery or specialist equipment.
• Sewing machines have foot-operated speed controls.
• Activities may involve standing at high tables; learners should discuss any difficulty with the tutor.
• Lift access is available to the first-floor fashion studios.