Sewing - Making Clothes - All Abilities

Course intent

In this sewing class we welcome all abilities of learners.

You will work on your own project that suits your abilities and pace. The tutor will take terms to closely work with each person individually in the class to guide you throw your project. Within this all-abilities group you also have opportunities to observe and learn from each other’s works to gain a wider knowledge of sewing.

What will we cover?

The course will cover any of the following areas as required to complete the project chosen:

Pattern and fabric selection

Sewing equipment

Sewing machine skills

Hand sewing and finishing skills

Correct fitting and pattern sizing

Pattern alterations for fit or redesign

Seam and raw edge finishes

Necklines and collars

Sleeves and cuffs

Openings and fastenings including zips

Hems and edge finishes

Taking up hemlines on trousers or skirts

Taking a pattern from a much-loved garment in order to reproduce it

Altering garments either to fit or to completely re-invent them.

Where this course consists of more than one session you will find you make the most progress if you attend every taught lesson and complete any self-directed study opportunities provided.

Who is this course for? Is there anything I need to know before joining?

All Abilities. For some with little, or no experience and those who have completed workshops and beginners’ courses.

For adults aged 18 years or older.

As our courses are taught in English, please contact us if you have any concerns about your level of English.

What do I need to bring to the first class? Will there be any extra costs?

A project that you had in mind, e.g. a paper pattern, ready-made garment, picture/ photos or your own design that we can discuss.

Fabric that you would like to use, basic sewing kit, fabric and paper scissors, tape measure, ruler, dressmaking pins, tracing wheel, machine thread, pencil eraser, note pad.

If this is the first time you are going to sew, please bring some spare fabric for practising on the machine.

You are also very welcome to discuss your requirements with the tutor before the class starts.

Please email the tutor at meiwen.wang@surreycc.gov.uk before the session with details of your intended project.

What can I do when I finish the course?

In discussion with your tutor, you may like to progress onto further sewing and dressmaking courses.

Additional information

We welcome learners with additional needs and disabilities. When you enrol, please let us know if you would like to discuss your extra support needs with a member of the Supported Learning Team who will then contact you as soon as possible. If you are enrolling within 10 days of the course start date, we may not be able to contact you before your first class. Surrey Adult Learning values and supports equality and diversity by promoting fairness and respect at all times.

How to enrol

You can't currently enrol online for this course, so please call 0300 200 1044 to express your interest or to make an enquiry for further information.

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