24th January: Pattern-free Sewing Machine project*
Suitable for beginners or “rusty” sewers!
Fast sewing machine set-up
Choose the right stitch and needle
Measure and cut fabric
Stitch seams and hems confidently and neatly
Make your first garment or bag with or without pockets
Project: Pattern-free pull-on skirt or tote bag. * Bring a machine or reserve one for the day
31st January: Demystifying sewing patterns
Choose the right sized pattern
Understand pattern diagrams and instructions
Lay out your pattern
Adjust length
Cut out your pattern in fabric
Mark up fabric and start assembling your garment
Project: Simple Trousers / Skirt / Shorts with or without pockets using an “easy” pattern, e.g. New Look 6456 or 6271
21st February: Add a lining to trousers or a skirt
Elevate your high-street or charity shop finds
Eliminate clinging, transparent or cheap looking clothing
Select and stitch different lining fabrics
Use machine and hand-stitching to create your lining
Project: Bring a garment to line, or make your own lining pattern for a skirt or trouser pattern.
28th February: Perfect Pockets
Plan pockets for practicality and style
Add a top-stitched patch pocket to a garment or pattern
Make a personalised side-seam pocket pattern
Experiment with more advanced pockets
Project: Create pockets for existing garments or patterns and make pocket patterns to take home
28th March: Sustainable Wardrobe Day
Creative alterations for fit, function or style
Mending by hand or machine
Embellishment and reinforcement using Sashiko or darning
Ripping and reassembling for a totally new look
Project: Bring items to mend and/or embellish
18th April: Learning and Finishing
A bit stuck with a garment?
Spend a day overcoming hurdles
Develop your sewing skills
No excuses, no distractions!
Project: Your choice! Bring one or more items to complete