Clothes Making: Improvers & Advanced Skills

About this course

Participants develop garments such as tops, skirts, trousers, jackets and dresses using commercial sewing patterns. The course covers an induction to an electronic sewing machine and techniques including bias binding, French seams, pleats, pin-tucks and specialist hand finishing such as handmade buttonholes. Pattern drafting is not included. Teaching combines demonstrations, discussions, individual guidance, group tuition and project work. Each learner selects an advanced garment project with the tutor, with an optional waistcoat or zipped mini bag project running alongside it. Learners may also compile test pieces and a photographic portfolio of their work.

What you'll learn

• Construct garments using commercial sewing patterns and advanced sewing techniques
• Select suitable patterns and fabrics for individual clothing projects
• Apply techniques including bias binding, French seams, pleats and pin-tucks
• Complete specialist hand-finishing techniques, including handmade buttonholes
• Operate an electronic sewing machine following the course induction

Is this course right for you?

This course is intended for improver-level learners who already have basic sewing machine skills and have completed at least one garment. Participants work on an individual advanced garment project while taking part in group tuition, discussions, demonstrations and guided practice.

• Pattern drafting is not covered; projects use commercial sewing patterns.
• The course includes tutor feedback, an individual learning plan, informal assessment and homework.

Before you go

• Learners must buy essential sewing equipment, fabric and a sewing pattern after discussing their project with the tutor.
• Required sewing items include Bernina bobbins, pins, thread, hand needles, a tape measure, paper scissors, a 2H pencil, rubber, sharpener, glue and Sellotape.
• Learners should bring an A4 ring binder with 10 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 optional.