New Year, New Handmade Wardrobe!
I've had quite a few enquiries from people who would like to make their own clothes - so I have designed a 5 week beginners dressmaking course that I hope will appeal. I am also delighted to announce that I am working with Tilly and the Buttons sewing patterns to help start you on your sewing journey.
Tilly and the Buttons create gorgeous, award-winning, easy-to-use sewing patterns for the new wave of DIY dressmakers. With refreshingly clear instructions and photos of each step, their patterns will help you to create adorable clothes you’ll feel proud to say you made yourself. Even if you’re a new stitcher!
We will start in week 1 with an introduction to using a sewing machine. You can use my machines or bring your own if you prefer (I have easy to use digital Janome machines - perfect for beginners) including winding the bobbin and threading the machine. We will also practice straight and curved stitching. .You will learn how to take your own measurements and we will discuss how to read a pattern, including
sizing choices. I will talk about fabric options ready for week 2 where we will start to make the Dominique Skirt (pattern worth £12.50 is included in the price of the course). The straight skirt is super simple for beginners. It features straight seams to practise your stitching and an elasticated waistband for an easy fit - with no fiddly zips or buttonholes! Choose from knee length or above-the-knee hemline, and add the optional turnover top patch pockets.The flared version of the skirt is slightly more challenging, as it's cut on the bias and I suggest a drapier fabric for a flowing silhouette. Choose from knee length or on-trend midi hemline, with optional turnover top pockets, belt loops and elegant sash. Looking for some inspiration? Check out #sewingdominique on Instagram
In week 3 we will complete the skirt and start to talk about our next pattern - the Cleo Dungaree Dress (pattern worth £12.50 is supplied). Great for beginners and bang on-trend, Cleo is simple to sew, with no fiddly zips and minimal fitting required – hooray! Make it dungaree-style with buckles, or as a pinafore with button fastenings. Choose from mini length or knee length with optional centre-front split, patch pockets on front or back, and optional contrast topstitching.Again, check out inspiration using #sewingcleo.
In week 4 we will cut out and begin the Cleo dress and in week 5 we will complete . You will learn about facings, how to topstitch, attach dungaree clips and jeans buttons or create buttonholes. At the end of the 5 week course you will have 2 beautiful handmade garments and a whole range of skills to take you onto the next stage of your dressmaking journey.
The course will run in January / February on Tuesday evenings and Saturday mornings and costs £130 (which includes patterns worth a total of £25) Please go to the online booking section of www.sewjobaker.com for more information and to book. If you would like to participate in the course, but can't make either of the session times, please do email me.
