In this online course you can work through the modules and lessons at your own pace. Re-watch modules as needed and dip in and out of whenever you need a little reminder.
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Archive | Beginners
Beginners 3 day Get into Sewing Course
This complete beginners sewing course will set you of on new crafting adventures
Day 1- We will complete the How to Use a sewing machine class and make a tote bag to keep our sewing projects in along with a cute pin cushion.
Day 2 – We will create some useful samples that can be referred to in the future, these will include seams hems and hand and machine sewing techniques.
Day 3 – We will start the day finding out about pattern terms and then cut out and make up a pair of pj bottoms
Skill level- Complete beginner
AIMS OF THE COURSE
To teach you the skills you need to become confident with using a sewing machine and following simple patterns and make some simple projects
What to Bring to the class-
You may wish to bring your own Sewing Machine if you have one
All materials are provided for this course
Classes start at 10am and finish at 3.30pm
Tutor
Aly Warner
How to Use your Overlocker
The ever scary overlocker, if you own one and feel its missing its potential, bring it along to this class and we will spend some time discussing and practicing the different stitches and techniques available on your machine and then we will put them into practice and make a simple T shirt.
Class level – Intermediate, you will have sewn other easy to make garments and have good basic sewing knowledge. Have access to and be able to bring your own overlocker to the class along with the manual for the machine.
The topics we aim to cover are:
We aim to cover the points on the list below. Depending on how many questions you have, we may not get a chance to cover everything – please let us know if there is something specific you really want help with before you leave if we don’t cover it in the class.
We aim to teach you the skills you will need to improve your overlocker use. You will make an easy to wear Tshirt using your overlocker and samples that can be referred to in the future All fabrics are included for the class
Specifically you will learn;
- Overlocker techniques
- Stitches and how to change them
- Using stitch and tear interfacing
- Attaching a continuous neck band
- Working with different fabrics
- The Overlocker rolled hem
What you need to bring to the class:
- An Overlocker and any accessories you have
- Your overlocker manual (important)
Maximum class size 4
Tutor
Aly Warner
Handbag – The Fiesta Tote
Ideal for newcomers and also those that have dabbled in bag making! The Fiesta Tote is a lovely bag designed by Mrs H.
Learn basic handbag construction methods and leave with a well finished, lined handbag and skills that you can apply to many different sewing projects. There are options for zip pockets and various handle choices.
Included in the cost of the class is a copy of the Mrs H, Fiesta Tote Bag pattern
Level -Basic knowledge of using a sewing machine is needed for this class.
The topics we aim to cover are:
- Basic bag making techniques
- The importance of interfacing/ stabilising in bag making
- Creating a shaped bag base
- Adding hardware to the bag
- Ideas for making further bags using the pattern
- Adding a magnetic popper closure to a handbag
- Making zip pockets (optional)
Materials needed:
You will need to bring along
- 50cm main outer fabric
- 75cm lining fabric
- Matching thread
- 3m 40mm wide webbing for the full bag or 2m 40mm wide webbing for the simpler option. Additionally for the full bag you will need bag hardware
- 2 x 9 inch zips
- 2 x swivel hooks
- 2 x 40mm D rings
- 1 x 40mm slider
- 1 x magnetic snap
Included in the class cost is a copy of the Tote Pattern for you to keep, foam stabiliser and interfacing.
Class cost without hardware, webbing and zips £65.00
We also have bag making packs available which includes webbing, zips and all the hardware needed to make the full bag at an additional cost of £15.00 available in Black or Navy which can be purchased on the day of the class.
Tutor – Sue Bridger
How To Use A Sewing Machine
A class for absolute beginners and a fantastic course to get you on your way – learn how to thread and operate a sewing machine confidently. Take your samples home with you and have everything you need to refer to in the future. This is one of our favourite sessions as it’s like teaching someone to drive, as soon as you get it, you’re on your way. Scheduled classes are shown at the bottom of the page.
Class level- Total beginner / Refresher
What we will cover in this session
We aim to cover the list below, but depending on how many questions you may have we may not get a chance to cover everything – please let us know if there is something specific you really want help with before you leave which we haven’t covered.
How to thread the machine
How to wind on the bobbin and insert the bobbin
Stitching straight, curves and corners
ZigZag stitches and stretch stitches
Understanding tension and problem solving tension issues
Importance of a completing the stitch cycle
Reversing
Importance of steering the fabric
Machine feet and how to use them
Have a go at creating seams a rolled hem and applique
Understanding which needles to use with different fabrics
Basic troubleshooting
What you need to bring with you
Nothing! All is provided, but if you have one you may wish to bring your own machine to get the best from the class
Tutor
Aly Warner
Hand Sewing

What we aim to achieve
Hemming stitches
Slip stitch
Sewing on a buttons
Thread loops
What you need to bring
Everything is provided for this class
Tutor
Aly Warner
Beginner’s Sewing Masterclass
This is great class if you know a little sewing – so long as you can use a machine you will be able to handle this class no problem. We will show you techniques that you will use time and time again. Knowing a few simple techniques will help you go a long way to complete all sorts of projects whether used in craft, dressmaking of furnishings. You will leave with a folder of samples to refer to in the future.
Class level – Beginner
What we will cover in the session
We aim to cover the following in the lessons
Convex curves
Concave curves
Darts
French Seams
Facings
Hems
Buttonholes
Simple zip
Piping
What you need to bring with you
All materials are provided for this class
Tutor
Aly Warner
Beginner’s Patchwork

The topics we aim to cover in this lesson
Fabric Terminology
Handling your fabric
Rotary Cutting – Equipment and use
Basic Sewing Machine Use
Achieving an accurate 1/4” seam
Pressing
Nine Patch Blocks
Easy triangle Blocks
Using the blocks you create we will make a simple table runner
Materials Needed:
We have sewing machines for you to use but if you would like to bring your own please advise us at the time of booking. If bringing your own machine, a 1/4” foot would be useful, but not essential. You will also need to bring along 4 coordinating cotton fabrics these will need to be 50cm X 60cm (fat quarters) and a thread in a colour that blends with all your fabrics.
We will supply Batting (wadding) to complete your table runner
Tutor
Aly Warner

Free Motion Machine Embroidery
In the 4 hour class you will learn how to hoop up your fabric and set your machine up ready to create wonderfully wobbly lines. You’ll then get to grips with using your machine without feed dogs, ‘drawing’ with your machine and adding splashes of colour with fabrics.
By the end of the class you’ll have a selection of sample pieces and have created your very own framed card to take away.
Not artistic? No sewing experience? No problem! This fun, versatile technique has no rules and knows no boundaries, you are free to create with it as you fancy. Learn to use your sewing machine to create works of art.
Class level – All levels
The Topics we aim to cover are:
Setting up your machine for FME
Tools required
Hooping
Fabric choice and preparing your fabric
Thread choice
Needle choice
Transferring designs
Where to find inspiration
Applications for FME
Great practice ideas
Creating backgrounds
Resolving issues
Learning good FME habits
What will I need to Bring
All fabrics and tools are provided for this class
Tutor
Meg Harris