Author Archive | Alison Warner

Lampshades for everyone

By Alison Warner on October 31, 2019 in Home Furnishings, Uncategorized

Make yourself a stunning no sew laminate lampshade, these are great for updating and changing your décor quickly and easily and once you’ve made one you will want to go home and make more! In this class we will show you how to achieve a professional finish using a laminate lampshade kit. you will get to make a 30cm round drum lampshade.

Skill level- Beginner

Topics we aim to cover

Measuring correctly
Cutting Accurately
Achieving a professional finish

What you will need to bring

Included in the cost of the class is the 30cm Drum lampshade kit

You will need 50cm of 140cm wide fabric, a lightweight craft cotton works best for your first attempt. Please don’t bring any heavy weight upholstery fabrics. We don’t sell fabrics in our workshop but we do have a limited amount of remnants if you don’t have time to find anything.

Tutor

Aly Warner or Jenny Frazer

Sorry, we don't have any classes planned currently. To register your interest please email us at hello@bobbinsewingschool.com.

Stitch a House Portrait

By Alison Warner on October 7, 2019 in Free Motion Machine Embroidery, Home Furnishings, Uncategorized

Black and white stitched picture of buckle cottage

Using Free Motion Machine embroidery during this workshop you’ll learn all the different stages of making a house portrait and will walk away with your very own framed stitched portrait of your own house or favourite building. Why not make one as a special gift such as a wedding present a new home or special Birthday or indeed just for yourself. This course would be most suited to people who have done machine embroidery before (like our beginners workshop!)

All materials are included

We will require an image of your building to be e mailed to us one week prior to the class to allow initial preparation for the class, please send this to hello@bobbinsewingschool.com

Tutor Meg Harris

Sorry, we don't have any classes planned currently. To register your interest please email us at hello@bobbinsewingschool.com.

Denim Skirt Making

By Alison Warner on September 16, 2019 in Dressmaking Courses & Sewing Cafe, Dressmaking Projects, Uncategorized

Join us in making this wardrobe classic. Learn about Denim, creating and sewing jeans style pockets, sewing mock fell seams and inserting a fly zip. We will also be top stitching giving the classic look associated with this style of skirt, you may even want to finish your skirt with optional rivets. Every stage will be demonstrated along the way.

We will be using the Tilly and the Buttons Ness skirt pattern, you each receive your own pattern to keep, allowing you to make further skirts at home.

What do I need to bring ?

The pattern is included in the cost

Denim or another heavy skirt cloth

Haberdashery items

Below are details of what you will need, we do have a small selection of supplies if you are unable to source anything

Sorry, we don't have any classes planned currently. To register your interest please email us at hello@bobbinsewingschool.com.

This class takes place over 3 days, so please do check the dates on the timetable

Blouses

By Alison Warner on March 24, 2019 in Dressmaking Courses & Sewing Cafe, Dressmaking Projects, Uncategorized

Blouse making can be extremely fun, at the same time the fabrics that give the best results are a bit daunting and seem to have a mind of their own. Over two days you will practise making your own beautiful blouse. We will demonstrate each stage as you progress through the workshop. and give you plenty of encouragement and lots of tips and tricks along the way.

Skill level- Intermediate +

The topics we aim to cover

Choosing the correct pattern size
Cutting out techniques
Setting up your machine
Interfacings- Where and which ones to use
Seams and Seam finishes
Collar stand
Plackets
Button holes and finishing

We can supply a standard pattern for this class with an average size range if you would prefer to bring your own pattern for this class please feel free to do so

What to bring to the class

2m x 140cm wide blouse weight fabric and thread to match

We have sewing machines for you to use but if you would like to bring your own that’s fine

Maximum number on class -4

Tutor Aly Warner

Sorry, we don't have any classes planned currently. To register your interest please email us at hello@bobbinsewingschool.com.

Shirt Making

By Alison Warner on February 10, 2019 in Dressmaking Courses & Sewing Cafe, Dressmaking Projects, Uncategorized

Shirt making can be extremely fulfilling when you know a few tips and tricks to getting a smart finish, because it really is all in the finish. Over four classes you will practise making your own or a significant others shirt. We will demonstrate each stage as you progress through the weeks and give you plenty of encouragement along the way.

Skill level- Intermediate +

The topics we aim to cover

Choosing the correct pattern size
Cutting out techniques
Interfacings- Where and which ones to use
Burrito method of yoke creation
Two piece collar
Sleeve plackets and cuffs
Button holes and finishing

We Provide a standard pattern for this class with an average size range if you would prefer to bring your own pattern for this class please feel free to do so

What to bring to the class

2m x 140cm wide cotton or cotton mix shirt weight fabric and thread to match

We have sewing machines for you to use but if you would like to bring your own that’s fine

Maximum number on class -4

Tutor Aly Warner

Sorry, we don't have any classes planned currently. To register your interest please email us at hello@bobbinsewingschool.com.

Cutting techniques

Patchwork Block and Quilt as you Go

By Alison Warner on December 14, 2018 in Patchwork & Quilting

Enjoy a morning creating a patchwork block or two. Each session we will offer you two different block designs to choose from , suitable for novice and seasoned patchworkers. Either of these blocks can be used individually for cushions and smaller projects or you could save them up to make a larger quilt, using the ‘Quilt as you go’ method. We will also practise the technique of straight line quilting using a walking foot, or free motion quilting according to your choice.

Skill level- Any

The topics we aim to cover

Cutting using rotary cutters

Using traditional and modern techniques for patchwork

Using 1/4″ seams on the sewing machine

Quilting methods

What to bring to the class

3 or 4 different craft weight cotton ‘fat Quarters’

A square of cotton 40cm x 40cm for the back if the block

One reel of thread to blend with your fabrics, we recommend either a grey or beige if you are not sure what’s best

40cm square cotton or wool mix batting for the quilting (we have an 80/20 cotton/poly mix batting available in the workshop for a small charge of £1.50 per square)

We have sewing machines for you to use but if you would like to bring your own that’s fine

Maximum number on class -5

Tutor

Aly Warner

Sorry, we don't have any classes planned currently. To register your interest please email us at hello@bobbinsewingschool.com.

Leather Journal Workshop

By Alison Warner on June 13, 2018 in Accessories

This is fun and friendly workshop,suitable for complete beginners. Using up-cycled leather we start in the morning making a small (15 x 11cm) 96 page book with an elastic closure. This will introduce you to all the basic bookbinding and leather working techniques. In the afternoon make a larger 120 page journal with a wraparound leather cover which can be designed to take pens or pencils. This book could be closed using a leather tie or incorporating a vintage button. You’ll go home with two stunning and unique up-cycled leather journals and the skills to make more.

In this session we’ll cover

Finding the grain of paper
Folding the paper to make sections using a bone folder
Making templates for the stitching holes
Using an awl to make the paper holes
Choosing your leather (it will be pre cut)
Using a Japanese Screw Punch to cut holes in the leather
Choosing and waxing your thread
Mastering the ‘Long Stitch’ technique for sewing the sections to the leather
Getting the tension right
Sewing buttons onto leather
Incorporating the features of the recycled leather into your design

What you need to bring

Nothing, everything is provided. However if you have favourite paper (max A4) or buttons you would like to use please bring them along. There will be plenty of upcycled leather and 140gm recycled cartridge paper for you to use, and a large quantity of vintage buttons to rummage through. Please bring a packed lunch or you will have time to pop out to a local cafe. Tea, coffee and homemade cake are provided.

Tutor Lynne Friel

Sorry, we don't have any classes planned currently. To register your interest please email us at hello@bobbinsewingschool.com.

Jolly Deer Wall hanging

By Alison Warner on November 19, 2017 in Accessories, Home Furnishings, Seasonal Sewing, Uncategorized

This cheery Deer is bound to make you smile, make one for your home in your own chosen fabric, use a lightweight furnishing, craft cotton corduroy or light wool he could look great in tweed. Make him with a red nose for the festive season. This is the perfect class if you enjoy or want to have ago at toy making. We provide a pattern and instructions for you to use again and again.

Skill level- Confident Beginner

The topics we aim to cover

Shaping and sewing in 3D

Hand finishing

What to bring to the class

50cm of your chosen fabric at least 115cm wide, thread to match

40cm x 40cm of contrast fabric for the antlers ( we have a box of fabrics you are welcome to sort through and use) or twigs look great as an alternative

Two buttons approx size of 20p for eyes and two for nose (we have jars of buttons you can look through)

We supply stuffing and felt for noses

We have sewing machines for you to use but if you would like to bring your own that’s fine

Maximum number on class -5

Tutor

Aly Warner

Sorry, we don't have any classes planned currently. To register your interest please email us at hello@bobbinsewingschool.com.

Coco Dress or Top

By Alison Warner on October 19, 2017 in Dressmaking Essentials, Dressmaking Projects

Never sewn Knits before? then this is the perfect starter – Make your own Coco, the perfect Breton top or knit dress with multiple variations. Coco is easy fitting, with no zips, buttons or other fiddly bits. The perfect introduction to sewing knit fabrics on a regular sewing machine, We supply you with the pattern which includes user-friendly instructions so you can go away and make lots more

A year-round staple that’s so easy to wear, Coco makes a great spring marinière top, summer tunic, autumn funnel neck or cosy winter dress. Designed for low-stretch knit fabrics, the classic style features a boat neckline, choice of top or dress lengths, three quarter length or long sleeves, with side splits at the hips on the top version. Make it your own with optional sixties funnel roll neck, rolled cuffs and patch pockets.

Skill level- Confident Beginner /Intermediate

The topics we aim to cover

To teach you the skills you need when dealing with stretch knit and Jersey Fabrics
Learn what measurements you need to take
Cut out a commercial pattern
Read a pattern
Understand terms used
Cut your fabric correctly
Methods of putting your garment together
Tips on which seams to use and where
Correct pressing techniques
Professional finishing hints and tips

What to bring to the class

Fabric:
– Dress with funnel neck + cuffs – 2.3m x 150cm wide (2 1/2 yards x 60in) OR 3m x 115cm wide (3 1/4 yards x 45in)
– Plain dress – 2m (2¼ yards) x 150cm (60in) wide OR 2.7m (3 yards) x 115cm (45in) wide
– Top with funnel neck + cuffs – 1.8m (2 yards) x 150cm (60in) wide OR 2.7m (3 yards) x 115cm (45in) wide
– Plain top – 1.5m (1¾in yards) x 150cm (60in) wide OR 2.2m (2½ yards) x 115cm (45in) wide

If you prefer your Dress knee length please add 20cm to the total for wide fabric and 50cm for narrower fabric

Matching thread
Ribbon (30cm x 6-8mm wide) or stay tape
Stretch or ballpoint needle for your sewing machine

Matching thread
Ribbon (30cm x 6-8mm wide) or stay tape
Stretch or ballpoint needle for your sewing machine

Matching thread
Stretch or ballpoint needle for your sewing machine

We have sewing machines for you to use but if you would like to bring your own that’s fine

Maximum number on class -4

Tutor

Aly Warner

Sorry, we don't have any classes planned currently. To register your interest please email us at hello@bobbinsewingschool.com.

Pattern Cutting Skirt Block and Skirt Design

By Alison Warner on August 17, 2017 in Dressmaking Courses & Sewing Cafe, Pattern Cutting

Having an idea for a design can be very exciting but its important to know how to take that idea and transfer into something wearable. All garment designs initially are worked from Blocks. In this course you will learn how to create your own personal skirt block on paper, make up a toile and check for fit adapting as necessary, then using your block learn some basic skills to add design and detail turning your own design into a skirt.

Skill level- Beginner @ pattern cutting, Intermediate in Sewing

The topics we aim to cover

Flat Pattern Cutting
Learn what measurements you need to take
Drawing up your own Skirt Block
Adding seam allowances
Making a skirt block toile
Method of skirt Construction
Determining pattern alterations for a good fit
Design and fabric grain and drape
Using your Skirt Block in design and how to adapt for your own creations
Estimating fabric amounts
Making up a toile in your own design.

What to bring to the class

We will provide Pattern cutting Paper

Notebook

Pencils

Ruler

Sharpener

Erasers

Extra Large Set square if you have one

1 Metre Calico to make up your initial toile

Fabric for your final skirt

We have sewing machines for you to use but if you would like to bring your own that’s fine

maximum in class 4

Tutor

Aly Warner

Sorry, we don't have any classes planned currently. To register your interest please email us at hello@bobbinsewingschool.com.

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