Garment Alteration and Finishing Short Course

About this course

Participants examine garment construction through practical sewing exercises, demonstrations and guided workshop practice. The course covers French, flat-felled and bound seams, different stitch types, high-quality hems and edge finishes, alongside decisions about suitable methods for different fabrics and garment types. Teaching includes industry-standard and couture approaches, with technical support during machine setup and practical work. Independent practice is advised to consolidate techniques, garment deconstruction and reconstruction, and understanding of construction methods.

What you'll learn

• Apply French, flat-felled and bound seam techniques
• Use a range of stitch types, hems and edge finishes
• Select construction and finishing methods appropriate to different fabrics and garment types
• Deconstruct and reconstruct garments with greater precision
• Develop sewing techniques using machines and hand-sewn samples

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for aspiring fashion designers, garment technologists and sewing enthusiasts, as well as learners preparing for further study or entry-level work in fashion and garments. Its all-levels classification indicates that it accommodates beginners while also offering scope for more experienced learners to refine their techniques.

• Suitable for learners considering fashion design, costume or textiles study
• Independent practice outside class is advised
• More experienced sewers can use the course to refine techniques and work with industrial machines

Before you go

• Independent practice may involve machine sewing if a learner has access to a machine, or producing hand-sewing samples and reviewing technical notes.