SATURDAY DAY SCHOOLS

Term 1 – Saturdays 24th September, 15th October & 19th November 2011 – Fee £90/£69

Term 2 – Saturdays 28th January 2012, 4th February & 3rd March – Fee £90/£69

Term 3 – Saturdays 12th May 2012 & 16th June – Fee £60/£46

Each day starts at 10am and finishes at 4pm (please remember to bring a packed lunch)

Tutor : Sally Tilley

This course will be delivered over a number of Saturdays each term (dates above).  If you are unable to come to a regular weekly course then why not try this one which will just be one Saturday per month.

Course Description

Learners will learn how to make basic pattern alterations, cut out, assemble and fit their garments.  As well as this they will be taught basic dressmaking techniques and make samples to practice their skills.  There will be plenty of help with lockstitch sewing machines if required.  More advanced learners will be encouraged to make more complicated garments.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed 

All people interested in dressmaking from complete beginners to the more experienced wanting to brush up their skills.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course you will have the opportunity to:

 understand and learn how to fit a garment

 use a lockstitch sewing machine

 appreciate how to use a variety of fabrics

 understand how to use a dressmaking pattern

 learn how to assemble a garment in the correct order

 learn and practice a variety of dressmaking skills eg inserting zips, attaching collars, cuffs, pockets, buttons and button holes, hems etc.

Equipment needed :-

A4 folder- A folder to hold all your samples and handouts, this will be very useful as a reference when you start dressmaking at home. 

Fabric-One metre of fabric to make your samples. Calico, cotton poplin or an old quilt cover would be ideal. 

Pattern for a garment-  If you are a complete beginner choose a “Very Easy” pattern from the New Look, McCall’s or Simplicity ranges. I would advise not to buy a “very easy” Vogue as they are not normally that easy. 

Fabric suitable to make the garment as well as thread, zip, elastic buttons etc.  If you would like to discuss this before you choose a pattern I will be happy to assist.

Basic tools: 

Sewing machines- are available at the College, or if you would prefer to, use your own - Only the most basic sewing machine is required for dressmaking because the only stitches you need to use are basic straight stitch and a zigzag for neatening seams. 

Scissors- Dressmaking scissors with long blades are ideal for cutting out fabric and a small pair of scissors, with short pointed blades, are ideal for cutting sewing thread and trimmings. 

Pins- steel if possible. 

Tape Measure- Dressmakers tape measure to take personal measurements and measure fabrics. 

Hand sewing needles- A selection of sewing needles are essential for tacking and finishing your samples. 

Costs in addition to brochure price: 

Fabric, pattern, dressmaking shears, stitch scissors, steel pins, metric tape measure, fabric for samples and an A4 folder.