Course overview

Course intent

After completing Stage 2, this course is designed to help you continue your sewing journey. You will work on a project tailored to your abilities and pace, with individual support to help you develop your skills further. Whether you are looking to refine your techniques or take on more complex projects, this course will provide the guidance you need.

What will I learn?

You will learn (depending on chosen project):

• Material Knowledge: Select the right pattern and fabric for your project. Understand how fabric types influence the construction and finish of your garments and work with more challenging fabrics such as jersey and satin.
• Design Techniques: Master pattern fitting, sizing, and alterations for a perfect fit or redesign. Adjust patterns to suit your style and create customised designs ensuring an excellent fit and drape.
• Production Process: Refine your sewing machine skills for greater precision and control. Extend and further improve your hand-sewing techniques, including finishing seams and raw edges. Work with necklines, collars, sleeves, and other key garment features. Create and apply fastenings, such as zips, and perfect hems and edge finishes.
• Craftsmanship: Finish your projects to a higher standard, paying attention to every detail. Focus on achieving clean, professional-looking finishes.
• Studio Practice: Work in a safe environment, following best practices for tool safety and maintaining an organised and efficient workspace.

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

Stage 3 – Suitable for learners who have completed stage 2 and would like to gain further experience and refine their skills within their chosen subject area. The focus will be on developing more control and proficiency in practice and learning and completing more complex projects.

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

You need to bring:

• Fabric that you would like to use
• Basic sewing kit
• Fabric and paper scissors
• Tape measure
• Ruler
• Dressmaking pins
• Machine thread
• Pencil, eraser and note pad

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

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

What can I do when I finish the course?

After completing 3 terms at Stage 3, in discussion with your tutor, you may like to enrol onto a Sewing - Stage 4 course, workshop or other Arts & Crafts courses at SAL.

Additional Information

We welcome learners with additional needs and disabilities. When you enrol, please let us know if you would like to discuss any additional support needs you have with our Learner Support Coordinator, who will then contact you as soon as possible. They can discuss your needs with you and talk through the reasonable adjustments we may be able to offer. If you are enrolling within 14 days of the course start date, they may not be able to contact you before your first class.

We are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment where everyone is treated with fairness and respect.

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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