On this course, you will learn about fabric types, sewing machine set-up, iron techniques and reading patterns. Explore hand-stitching and machine techniques, then apply skills to create a fabric accessory, blending both hand and machine stitching.

Day One Understanding Materials:

• Introduction to different types of fabrics (natural vs. synthetic fibres)
• Understanding fabric grain, types of weave and weight
• How to choose the right fabric for a project
• Handling and preparing fabric before stitching (ironing and stabilising)
• Learning machinery- sewing machine
• Identifying parts of a sewing machine
• How to correctly thread a sewing machine
• Adjusting and setting up thread tension
• Winding and inserting a bobbin properly
• Troubleshooting common sewing machine issues

Iron:

• Proper handling and placement of an iron for safety
• Adjusting the height for ergonomic use
• Setting up steam and heat strength for different fabric types
• Using iron accessories such as pressing cloths and tailors’ hams
• Techniques for pressing seams, hems and pleats correctly

Learning Pattern:

• Introduction to pattern cutting terminology and symbols
• How to read and interpret a sewing pattern
• Properly laying out a pattern on fabric (considering grain line, bias, consumption)
• Pinning and cutting a pattern efficiently
• Transferring pattern markings (notches, darts and seam allowances)

Day Two Hand-stitching Techniques - Exploring Diverse Hand Stitching:

• Running stitch
• Basting stitch
• Back stitch
• Invisible stitch

Learn how to stitch buttons, snaps and attached trims on fabric

Day Three Machine Techniques - Exploring Diverse Machine Stitches:

• Learning to stitch with a sewing machine
• Understanding machine speed control and stitch length adjustments
• Exploring different stitch types (straight stitch, zigzag, overlock, hem, etc.)
• How different fabric types affect stitching (e.g. silk, organza, stretch fabrics, cotton)
• Techniques for securing stitches and preventing

Day Four

• Practising the techniques and introduction to drapé
• The final day will focus on enhancing the skills learned during the week by creating a fabric accessory with a couture touch!
• Mixing machine and hand stitching

Included

On this course, the tutor will supply a selection of fabric, pins, needles, trims and buttons. On this course, the College will provide equipment to use during the course.

What students need to bring

A notebook and pen

Additional information

Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).

Daily Timetable

Course teaching: 11am–5.15pm
Students arrive: 10.30am-11am (coffee optional)  
Morning teaching: 11am-1pm
Lunch break: 1pm-2pm (lunch is not included)
Afternoon teaching: 2pm-5.15pm (15 minute break, 3.30pm–3.45pm)
Teaching finishes: 5.15pm  
 

Short courses are open to anyone aged 18 and over. The course fee covers tuition and materials where stated. You will need to bring all other items listed under the ‘Materials to bring’ section.

Refreshments

Coffee and tea are included in the course fee, but you will need to bring lunch with you to eat in the refreshments room. There are also plenty of other local venues to purchase food.

Access

If you have any specific access needs, we will need to know about your access requirements in advance. Please tell us about your needs in confidence by emailing: [email protected] This venue has steps to the front reception, with limited access via a side gate to the ground floor. There is a small lift to higher floors or stairs.

Safety

Short course students are required to sign a safety compliance form as part of West Dean Health and Safety regulations.

Refunds and cancellations

Please refer to our terms & conditions below.

Disclaimer

The information given is accurate at the time of publication. However, West Dean College reserves the right to cancel or amend courses if circumstances require.

Terms & Conditions