FAQs
If your question isn’t answered here then please do get in touch – we’ll be happy to help.
How do I book a course?
Simply browse our website, choose the course you’d like to attend and follow the links to book your place – you’ll then receive a confirmation email.
Do I have to book online?
Yes – this is because our online system manages our class sizes. If, however, you are experiencing any issues with our website we’ll be happy to deal with your enquiry by phone or email.
Can I just turn up on the day?
No, advance booking is essential.
i'm not very 'crafty' and never learnt to sew. will i be able to have a go?
Yes! There are plenty of beginners’ courses, and no question is too silly. Come and discover what you can achieve with clear and patient guidance.
How many students are there on your sewing and craft courses?
For most courses we take no more than 8 students to a tutor – often there are fewer. Some workshops, such as blind making and curtain making, run with much smaller groups. Our priority is making sure that everyone gets the attention they need.
Do I need to bring anything?
Where there are materials that you need to bring it will be clearly stated in the workshop listing on our website, and we’ll also send a reminder by email.
Light refreshments are provided during the courses.
can i bring my sewing machine?
Yes, of course. We find that people generally achieve more and are happier using a machine that they are familiar with. However, we have plenty of machines here if you prefer.
where are your courses held?
Our face-to-face courses are held at our purpose-designed studio within the South Downs Garden and Heritage Centre in Hassocks, near Brighton. You can check how to find us here.
You can also learn online with our pre-recorded video tutorials and live Zoom sessions.
I'm not sure about doing a course via zoom. do they work well?
They work SO well – we’ve had brilliant feedback.
We’ll make sure you know what materials you need in advance, then you just need to clear some space and log in. We keep things just as friendly as in our studio. We’re careful to explain and demonstrate the techniques really clearly, and we allow plenty of time for questions.
what age range are the courses for?
The general courses and workshops are for adults of all ages. Teenagers are welcome to attend accompanied by an adult, or, if unaccompanied, where the tutor holds a DBS check.
There are children’s sewing classes, age 8+, during the school holidays.
do you sell gift vouchers?
Yes, vouchers are sold online here and can be used towards any of our workshops, online courses, kits, patterns, private sessions and retreats. They are valid for 12 months from the date of purchase. (Vouchers cannot be redeemed for cash.)
I'd like to do a course but can't see it listed, or an appropriate date. what are my options?
Our programme is constantly evolving – you can sign up for our newsletter at the bottom of this page if you’d like to hear when new workshops are added.
We also love to hear your suggestions – please do contact us if there is something you’d like us to offer.
Alternatively you can book a private session where you get to specify the topic or technique , so long as we have a tutor to match!
refunds and cancellations - what if i need to canceL?
We know that circumstances change, but please do check your diary carefully before you book.
You have the right to cancel your booking, and receive a full refund, within 7 days of your order. To do so you can log into your account and follow the links, or send us an email with the word ‘cancellation’ in the subject line.
If it has been more than 7 days since you made your booking, we are only able to offer a refund, or transfer you to another session, if there are at least 10 clear days before the date of your original workshop.
However, if you can find someone else to take your place, we’re more than happy to transfer the booking to them. Once we’ve received their payment we’ll be able to refund you. You will just need to notify us of their name, contact number and email address.
do you ever cancel courses?
We know how much our students look forward to their courses and cancellations are rare.
If a cancellation is unavoidable, we’ll give you as much notice as possible using the email address that you have registered with us. We will of course give you a full refund, or, if you prefer, transfer you to a workshop of the same price, space permitting. Unfortunately we cannot accept responsibility for travel and other costs.
how do I find out about my tutor?
Details of our tutors can be found on the individual workshop listings pages.
i use a wheelchair - is your studio accessible?
Yes, we have a ramp that we put down so that you can access the studio. Once inside we’ll make sure you have plenty of space.
do you offer corporate events or away days?
Yes, our creative social and team-building sessions are really popular, and there’s loads of flexibility. Find out more about our corporate events.
can you host my party?
Yes, we love a party! We host kids’ parties, hen dos and family celebrations, all featuring a relaxed and enjoyable sewing or craft project. Let us know how we can help.
