Clothes Making Intermediate

About this course

The course develops intermediate clothes-making skills through a structured shirt-style garment project. Learners work from personal fitting and pattern alterations through to garment construction, using features such as pockets, collars, cuffs, plackets, waistbands and facings, alongside relevant finishing methods. Teaching combines whole-class demonstrations, discussion, samples and hand-outs with individual guidance and feedback. Learners analyse commercial pattern instructions, select suitable fabric and apply pattern adjustments and construction techniques to their projects.

What you'll learn

• Adjust commercial patterns using intermediate fitting methods
• Record and apply pattern alterations accurately
• Choose fabric suitable for intermediate garment shapes and construction methods
• Interpret instructions for an intermediate commercial pattern
• Construct and finish garments using intermediate techniques

Is this course right for you?

This course is intended for learners with established clothes-making skills beyond the beginner stage. Students are expected to work independently on practical projects while taking part in whole-class teaching, individual guidance and a considerate, collaborative studio environment. The course requires fluent spoken and written English.

• Previous study or equivalent experience in garment making is expected
• Learners should be able to use a sewing machine confidently and safely
• Some activities involve standing at high tables for periods of time
• The course includes both independent project work and shared class activity

Before you go

• Students must provide a sewing kit including fabric and trimming scissors, a tape measure, dressmaking or tailor's chalk, needles and thread.
• Pattern alteration equipment, stationery and an A4 folder are also required, including paper scissors, a tracing wheel, carbon paper, tape, pencils, coloured pens and a rubber.
• Students provide their own fabrics, haberdashery, threads and patterns. A pattern may be purchased during the first lesson, and calico for toiles is available at cost price.
• Paper and card are available for classroom use.
• A health and safety induction is included before students use machinery or specialist equipment.
• Activities may involve standing at high tables, and sewing machines use foot-operated speed controls.
• The fashion studios have lift access to the first floor. Eating and drinking are not permitted in the studios, although bottled water is allowed.