Clothes Making Advanced Skills

About this course

Learners develop an advanced garment project using a commercial sewing pattern, with individual project work supported by demonstrations, guided practice, discussions and feedback. The course covers construction for garments such as tops, skirts, trousers, jackets and dresses, alongside couture techniques and specialist machine feet. Participants also work with pattern symbols, cutting layouts and marking methods, and practise details including bias binding, French seams, pleats, pin-tucks and handmade buttonholes. Pattern drafting is not included. An optional waistcoat or zipped mini bag project can run alongside the main garment. Learners may document test pieces and finished work in a notebook and photographic portfolio.

What you'll learn

• Construct garments using advanced sewing and garment-making techniques.
• Operate an electronic sewing machine and use specialist presser feet.
• Select commercial patterns and fabrics for a planned design and fit.
• Interpret pattern information, symbols, cutting layouts and marking methods.
• Apply techniques including bias binding, French seams, pleats and pin-tucks.
• Complete hand-finishing details such as handmade buttonholes.

Is this course right for you?

This advanced course is intended for learners who already have basic sewing machine skills and have completed at least one garment. The work combines individual garment projects with group tuition, demonstrations, discussion and feedback, using commercial patterns rather than pattern drafting.

• Requires prior completion of at least one garment.
• Involves developing an individual advanced-level garment project.
• Pattern drafting is not covered.

Before you go

• Learners need to buy essential sewing equipment, fabric and a sewing pattern after discussing their project with the tutor.
• Required items include Bernina bobbins, pins, thread, hand needles, a tape measure, drawing and pattern-making stationery, paper scissors, glue, Sellotape, an A4 ring binder with ten A4 plastic wallets, an A5 notebook and a black or blue biro.
• Pattern notchers, a tracing wheel and a French curve or set square are listed as optional.