Fashion alterations: essential skills to adapt clothes for better fit

About this course

The course develops garment-alteration skills through demonstrations, handouts, guided exercises and individual tutor feedback. Participants practise measuring, cutting, pinning and pressing, then apply suitable methods to tasks such as changing garment proportions, adjusting fit, reshaping necklines and sleeves, and replacing fastenings. Hand and machine sewing techniques are covered alongside use of a sewing machine and overlocker. Taught exercises lead into a personal project, allowing participants to apply the techniques to a garment or patchwork piece. The content varies across terms, covering general mending, shape and design alterations, and fit adjustments.

What you'll learn

• Measure, cut, pin and press garments accurately for alteration work
• Select suitable methods for changing garment length, shape or fit
• Apply hand-sewing techniques to repair and modify clothing
• Use a sewing machine and overlocker competently
• Plan and develop an individual garment-alteration or patchwork project

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for complete beginners as well as learners with basic sewing experience. No previous experience is required. Participation combines structured practical exercises with development of an individual project, so learners work through techniques before applying them independently.

• Suitable for learners starting sewing without previous experience
• Also accommodates learners who want to build on basic sewing skills
• Can be taken as a single term or followed across the wider course pathway

Before you go

• Shared equipment and specialist teaching resources are available in the studio.
• A range of materials is available, though learners are encouraged to bring their own materials for individual projects.
• The tutor can advise on suitable materials.
• Assistive equipment and access support through reasonable adjustments may be available following discussion with the relevant support team.