Clothes Making Intermediate: Shirts

About this course

Participants develop an individual shirt project from personal fitting and pattern adjustments through to garment construction. The course covers collars, cuffs, plackets, pockets, facings, fit and finishing techniques, with learners selecting fabric for their design and working from an intermediate commercial pattern. Teaching combines whole-class demonstrations, discussion, examples, samples and hand-outs with individual guidance and feedback. Health and safety inductions are included, and training is required before using machinery or specialist equipment.

What you'll learn

• Carry out and document intermediate pattern alterations
• Choose fabrics suited to intermediate garment shapes and construction methods
• Interpret and apply instructions from an intermediate commercial pattern
• Construct a classic shirt using intermediate techniques and finishes

Is this course right for you?

This course is intended for learners with established beginner garment-making skills who are progressing to intermediate work. Equivalent experience, or two or more beginner courses including one garment with set-in sleeves, is recommended. Participants should be able to use a sewing machine safely, take body measurements, understand ease and pattern markings, and make basic alterations. Classes combine group teaching with individual guidance, and require punctual attendance and regular participation.

• Previous garment-making experience is expected at an intermediate level
• Learners need to read, write and understand fluent English
• Some activities involve standing at high tables
• The class uses both whole-group teaching and one-to-one support

Before you go

• Participants must bring 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.
• Participants provide their own fabrics, haberdashery, threads and sewing patterns. Paper and card are available in the classroom; calico for toiles is available at cost price.
• A machine bobbin must be purchased from the tutor and is refundable at the end of the course.
• Health and safety training is required before using machinery or specialist equipment.
• The course may involve standing at high tables. The fashion studios have lift access, and learners should tell the tutor if standing for periods may be difficult.
• Sewing machines use foot-operated speed controls. Eating and drinking are not allowed in the studios, although bottled water is permitted.