Dressmaking for beginners and improvers (Fri pm) new course starts September 2026
This 10 week course is for complete beginners to dressmaking or those with some sewing experience.
You’ll learn how to make a garment of your choice using a commercial (shop bought) pattern.
The course will take you through the whole process including taking personal measurements, selecting and cutting the correct size, cutting out fabric, sewing darts, pleats and seams, inserting zips and stitching hems. Sewing machines and overlockers are available to use although you may find it useful to have your own sewing machine to continue your garment and practise sewing techniques at home.
Please come to the first class with a dressmaking pattern and fabric. It is advisable to make up a toile (practise garment) first in calico or other cheap fabric to ensure a good fit, before making up the garment in a more expensive and higher quality fashion fabric. This will also give you the chance to try out the techniques needed for your garment without worrying about mastering these on the first attempt.
Complete beginners are advised to make a simple garment such as a skirt or loose fitting / pyjama trousers. Students can contact us in advance of the course for advice.
Those with experience of using commercial patterns can bring a pattern for a garment of their choice.
Please note there will NOT be sessions on Friday 25th September, 16th or 30th October
What will we cover?
It’s time to stop imagining your perfect outfit and finally learn how to make your own clothes, exactly as you want them.
On our enjoyable 10-week course for beginners and improvers, you’ll make a garment of your choice, working from a shop-bought pattern. Our expert tutors will introduce you to all the techniques you need to get results you love.
If you already have some experience, this is a great way to brush up on the basics, fill gaps in your knowledge and ensure you’re achieving an excellent finish.
This course will take you, step by step, through the whole dressmaking process, including:
- taking personal measurements
- selecting and cutting the correct size
- cutting out fabric
- sewing darts, pleats and seams
- inserting zips
- stitching hems
Please come to the first class with a dressmaking pattern and fabric. It is advisable to make up a toile (practise garment) first in calico or other cheap fabric to ensure a good fit, before making up the garment in a more expensive and higher quality fashion fabric. This will also give you the chance to try out the techniques needed for your garment without worrying about mastering these on the first attempt.
How will I be taught?
You’ll be taught in our lovely studio by a friendly and experienced tutor, through demonstration and guidance as you work.
You’ll also be able to ask questions, making sure everything is clear and that you’re getting the best results you can.
Do I need any previous experience or skills?
Suitable for complete beginners to dressmaking but you do need to be competent on a sewing machine to join this course.
Are materials provided? Is there anything I need to source myself?
Please come to the first class with a dressmaking pattern and fabric, as well as the same amount of a cheaper fabric (such as calico) for your ‘toile’.
If you’re a complete beginner, we recommend a simple garment such as a skirt or loose fitting / pyjama trousers. If you have some experience, feel free to bring a pattern of your choice. Please do contact us if you need advice.
You’ll also need a notebook and your sewing kit, including fabric scissors and snips, pins, quick unpick tool, hand sewing needles and thread.
We recommend bringing your own sewing machine as it allows you to continue your garment and practise at home. In this case, please make sure you bring your power cable. You’d be amazed how often these get forgotten!
You do have the choice to use the sewing machines and overlockers provided in the studio.
What will I take home with me?
You’ll leave with your item of clothing, as well as bags of confidence, new-found knowledge and dressmaking inspiration.
Refreshments
Drinks and biscuits will be available
“I’ve been doing Julia’s dressmaking class for a few terms now. The studio is a lovely environment to spend a few hours and Julia’s calm expertise guides us all through whatever projects we bring.”
Elaine T.
“Another brilliant term of dressmaking. Made & Making is a lovely environment to learn in and we are blessed with a fabulous tutor – Julia Hincks who is always on hand to offer help and advice. Lots of fun and laughter with fellow students and of course copious cups of tea, coffee, biscuits and of course cakes.”
Nicky B.
Photography
During all of our workshops photographs are taken for promotional purposes only. Please make us aware at the time of booking if you would prefer not to be included.
Tutor
Julia is a teacher, author and lover of yarn and fabric crafts. After completing a degree in Business and Management, Julia qualified as a mathematics teacher at Cambridge University in 2001 and has worked in education ever since, teaching at schools and colleges across Sussex. Julia has always sewn, knitted and crocheted and in 2006 she completed a Diploma in Art and Design, specialising in Fashion and Pattern Cutting. In 2008 Julia began teaching creative crafts to adults at City College in Brighton and has also worked at a number of other adult education centres in the city. In 2014 her first book 'The Overlocker Technique Manual' was published and has become a bestselling craft book. Her second book 'The Coverstitch Technique Manual' will be released in September 2021.
