Sewing Classes

About this course

The course develops sewing skills through guided practical sessions and group projects. Depending on the course selected, participants work towards items such as cushion covers, tote bags, skirts, trousers or tops, with a later option to make a simple dress or revisit an earlier project. Teaching covers machine sewing, straight and zigzag stitching, backstitching, seam construction, pressing and finishing. Participants practise techniques through samples and apply them to complete projects, including zip insertion, patch pockets, topstitching, understitching and pivoting at corners. Sessions also include questions and answers, tutor observations and practical coursework.

What you'll learn

• Set up and use a sewing machine for basic construction work
• Cut fabric using a provided or measured pattern
• Sew straight lines, corners and basic seams with neatened edges
• Insert a regular zip and construct a patch pocket
• Apply topstitching, understitching, pressing and finishing techniques
• Construct a simple sewn item from pattern preparation through to completion

Is this course right for you?

The course is described as being for beginners and is taught in an adult-only group setting, combining individual project work with shared class projects. Learners developing beyond fundamental techniques are directed towards separate intermediate to advanced clothesmaking courses.

• The available projects change across the year
• Learners may select individual courses rather than attend the full series
• The course is delivered through group projects alongside individual practical work

Before you go

• Participants may use their own sewing machine or a college John Lewis sewing machine.
• There are additional costs for materials.