Fashion and textiles courses

You will learn the basic theory and how to use a sewing machine, a variety of different construction seams and how to insert a zip.

On this course you will:

• set up and thread a sewing machine along with winding the bobbin
• work safely with tools and equipment
• understand and use correct terminology
• sew a variety of seams and finish edges with an overlocker
• troubleshoot common sewing machine issues
• produce a tote bag

The aim of the course is to introduce you to the very basics of flat pattern cutting and sewing skills to produce a calico toile of a simple garment.

You will draft your own standard template (block) which you will use to produce your own pattern pieces.

You will learn how to modify your pattern pieces to get a correct fit and you will learn enough sewing skills to sew up the toile.

You will be introduced to digital learning to enhance your knowledge of technology and to promote independent learning.

Over the course you will:

• learn about flat pattern construction
• take and record accurate measurements
• make a pattern and adjust it
• cut out a basic garment in calico
• work with a range of tools and equipment.
• use professional methods and terminology
• sew together your pattern pieces to make a garment
• use digital platforms for learning.

This course is for anyone who would like to sew a garment and has never sewn or not sewn in a long time.

You will gain subject knowledge and learn sewing techniques that will enable you to understand the concept of sewing garment pieces together.
You will learn:

• how to sew a garment
• how to sew using a sewing machine
• how to take your body measurements using inches and centimetres
• words that relate to pattern symbols that will help you understand the language of sewing pattern vocabulary
• pattern terminology

This is a course for learning how to sew. You do not need to own a sewing machine and you do not need any previous experience or knowledge.

On this course you will construct a basic garment. You will learn:

• how to thread up and use a sewing machine
• how to sew using different stitches
• understand basic health and safety requirements in the studio and using the machines
• be introduced to the basics of dressmaking.
• be introduced to fabrics and cultural influences in fashion.
• learn some new words (professional terminology) to develop your language skills.
• learn how to measure and record measurements accurately.
• learn how to adapt patterns in the construction of a simple garment. Sewing and Garment Pattern Cutting – Beginners

An all-levels course for learning how to sew. You do not need to own a sewing machine or have to have prior experience.

The tutor is very knowledgeable and will support you whatever your level. On this course you will make a basic garment.

You will also learn:

• the basics of dressmaking
• threading different machines
• how to sew using different stitches
• how measure and record measurements accurately
• how to adapt patterns in the construction of a simple garment
• health and safety requirements in the studio and using the machines
• be introduced to fabrics and cultural influences in fashion
• learn some professional terminology

This course is for you if you want to learn how to knit or develop your knitting skills. This is an all-levels course where experience is not necessary. If you can knit you will be made most welcome so you can develop your knowledge and skills.

You will explore colour and texture using a variety of different yarns and begin your own project work.

Beginners will learn how to cast on. Produce a range of basic knitted structures including knit and purl and learn how to cast off covering the basic principles of knitting. Those with existing skills will continue to develop and gain insight into some challenging fun projects. You will learn how to shape your knitting and tackle some of the more advanced structures.

Everyone will keep a record of the samples produced, with professional terminology. You will be expected to continue some of the work at home to be ready for the next class.

This course is suitable if you are looking to explore a brief introduction to different Christmas craft techniques. They are suitable for festival interior décor or as gifts

This course requires no previous experience and is taught in a friendly and supportive atmosphere.

You will try the traditional techniques of sewing/embroidery, crochet, origami, 3D-making and construction. You will bring home several finished pieces. 

This course is for you if you want to learn the hand and machine stitching skills necessary for fashion construction and soft tailoring.

You do not need any previous experience or knowledge though you should have an interest in fashionable clothing and sewing techniques.

You will construct a basic ‘softly tailored’ garment whilst on the course.

You will also learn:

• how to thread a variety of machines
• hand and machine stitches used in tailoring
• to apply health and safety requirements in the studio and when using the machines
• to measure and record measurements accurately
• to calculate the amount of fabric required
• to evaluate your project using professional terminology
• to use online resources to research fashion trends and tailoring techniques.

A course for those who have an interest in fashion and clothing who would like to learn more sewing techniques used in fashion clothing. You should ideally already have some skills in sewing. You will understand more about fabrics, and how to sew by the end of the course.

The course is designed to allow you to progress a project of your choice with the support and instruction of a tutor. The course covers a range of methods used in clothes making:

• adapting a ready-made pattern to fit properly
• recording measurements accurately and using them for your own pattern cutting/adaptations
• learning specific techniques for your own project
• use digital resources.

This course is for you if you want to progress from the Basic Clothes Making course, or feel you have some basic knowledge and skills and want to improve.

You will build your knowledge of sewing by learning a new sewing technique each week. You will build a portfolio of sewing techniques to use on the course and to take away with you for future reference.

Whilst on this course you will:

• build and improve your knowledge and practical skills
• use measurements to ensure an accurate fit
• use professional terminology to develop your language of sewing
• build upon sewing and finishing techniques that will make your garment unique
• sew your garment to a high standard
• become more confident in sewing your own ideas.

This course is ideal if you want to learn how to make a pattern for a simple garment that you have chosen or designed yourself, also covering the basics of sewing.

Whilst on the course you will:

• Record measurements accurately
• Construct a basic block/pattern personal to you
• Use basic sewing stitches by hand and a sewing machine
• Use a variety of sewing techniques
• Operate machinery and tools safely
• Learn and note professional terminology
• Use online resources as part of your learning
• Calculate how much fabric will be needed as well as the appropriate type of fabric you will require to make your garment

The aim of the Fashion Workshop is for you to develop your fashion knowledge and skills. So this course is suitable for you if you have some existing sewing and fashion skills.

You will have access to a wide range of equipment and materials and a knowledgeable supportive tutor.

The workshops encourage you to develop under your own direction with support. It will raise your profile in the sector, either through producing work for exhibition, competition or sales.  In directing your own study, you will have the opportunity to explore more varied methods of clothes making.

For example adapting patterns and developing various sewing techniques. Like getting inspiration from different cultures to try new fabrics and sewing techniques.

You will use online resources to research current fashion trends. You will continue to develop your professional terminology and awareness.

You should have the necessary ambition and drive to self-direct your own study and be active in raising your own profile.

These courses require previous experience of Pattern Construction. They are suitable if you would like to learn more industry-standard skills using the Gerber Accumark CAD system.

This is an introductory course which uses an IT/CAD system to create digital patterns and lay planning. Whilst this is an introductory course, you should have a good understanding of pattern cutting or garment construction to understand the basic principles.

You will learn how to manipulate blocks, create draft lines and add seam allowances. You will also use a computer to plot (print) a pattern. You do not need to own a computer to enrol on this course. 

By the end of the course you will have basic knowledge of the Gerber Accumark CAD system.