Clothes Making Advanced: Fine Garment Construction and Sewing Techniques

About this course

Participants develop advanced garment-making skills through a project-based approach, applying fitting and construction methods to couture garments. The course covers the use of commercial patterns with advanced features, sophisticated fabrics and trimmings, and detailed finishing techniques. Teaching combines demonstrations, examples, samples, discussion and hand-outs with individual guidance alongside whole-class instruction. Different themes are introduced through tutor demonstrations, while feedback supports problem-solving and independent decision-making during garment construction.

What you'll learn

• Adapt commercial patterns incorporating advanced construction features
• Work with advanced fabrics and trimmings
• Apply couture construction and finishing techniques demonstrated in class
• Resolve construction problems and make independent technical decisions

Is this course right for you?

This advanced course is intended for learners with established garment-making knowledge and equivalent competence, including those progressing from related intermediate study. Participants need to work independently while engaging with whole-class teaching, demonstrations and individual feedback. Fluent English is required to read, write and understand course information.

• Previous study in a related field or equivalent competence is required
• Independent work forms part of the practical course
• Class activities may involve standing at high tables for periods of time
• The course includes both group teaching and individual tutor guidance

Before you go

• Participants must bring a basic sewing kit, including fabric and trimming scissors, pins, a tape measure, hand-sewing needles and threads.
• A pattern-drafting kit and note-taking materials are also required, including pattern curves, pencils, paper scissors, masking tape, a calculator and an A4 ring binder.
• Participants provide their own project materials, haberdashery and threads. Some specialist materials, including calico for toiling, can be purchased from the tutor at cost price.
• Some pattern-cutting and garment-construction tools, along with paper and card, are available in the studio.
• Do not use machinery or specialist equipment until completing the relevant health and safety training. Sewing machines have foot-operated speed controls.
• Activities may involve standing at high tables. The studios are on the first floor, with lift access.
• Eating and drinking are not permitted in the fashion studios, although bottled water is allowed.