Clothes Making Beginners: Introduction to the Sewing Machine

About this course

Participants learn to operate a two-thread sewing machine, including correct setup, use of its features and reference to the machine manual. They produce stitch samples, simple seams and seam finishes, and practise a range of sewing processes while working independently and with guidance. Teaching combines whole-class demonstrations, discussion, examples, samples, handouts and one-to-one support. Feedback is provided throughout, with health and safety induction included before learners use machinery or specialist equipment.

What you'll learn

• Set up and use the features of a two-thread sewing machine appropriately
• Produce simple seams and seam finishes
• Carry out a range of sewing processes independently
• Use a machine manual to support sewing-machine operation
• Identify and troubleshoot common sewing-machine errors

Is this course right for you?

This beginner-level course is intended for learners starting to develop sewing-machine skills. It combines whole-class teaching with individual work and guidance. Activities may involve standing at high tables, and learners should be able to read, write and understand fluent English.

• Standing at high tables may be required for periods of time
• Fluent spoken and written English is required
• Digital, mathematics and numeracy skills are desirable but not essential

Before you go

• Bring a basic sewing kit including sharp fabric scissors, trimming scissors, dressmaker’s pins, a tape measure, hand-sewing needles and sewing threads.
• Bring note-taking materials, including a notepad, writing equipment, a calculator and an A4 ring binder for handouts.
• A sewing-machine bobbin may need to be obtained from the tutor, and a course pack must be purchased from the tutor.
• A foot-operated speed control is used on the sewing machines.
• Learners must complete the relevant training before using machinery or specialist equipment.
• The fashion studios have lift access to the first floor. Eating and drinking are not permitted in the studios, although bottled water is allowed.