Learn to sew on a machine with confidence!

Learn-in-a-day, absolute beginner sewing & alterations course in Conway Mill, Belfast.

Would you love to learn how to sew on a machine, but don't know where to start?

Maybe you want to alter your clothes for a better fit?

This is the perfect course for you - as you will learn to sew on a machine from scratch in a beautiful fashion design studio in Conway Mill, Belfast. You will also learn how to start altering your clothes - save money on seamstress costs and do it yourself!

This all-day class is taught by studio owner MaryRose McGrath - a womenswear designer with over thirty years of experience, including over a decade working in the London fashion industry. During her career, she has designed for many fashion brands, including M&S, Debenhams, Oasis, House Of Fraser and more.

She teaches key sewing techniques which are used in the industry and taught on fashion degrees - also included are many nifty tips and tricks of the trade, which guarantee superb sewing results every time.

As you learn, you'll be surrounded by inspiration galore in the studio - sketches & swatches, designs in work, mood boards & mannequins.

One-to-one tuition is guaranteed for each student in class, and the course has been specifically designed to fast-track your sewing success in a concentrated period of time. All this means you will advance from a nervous novice to a confident sewer by the end of the day.

For past student feedback, see our 5-star course reviews below.

✨What you will learn in class:

Sew Like a Pro: Must-Know Sewing, Garment Fitting & Alteration Techniques

UNDERSTAND ALL ABOUT THE SEWING MACHINE:

An easy-to-understand, thorough explanation of the sewing machines: the confusing dials & knobs and what each one does

SEW LIKE A PRO:

How to sew on a machine with confidence

How to thread the machine correctly - learn about threads and why your choice matters

How to wind the bobbin and insert it into the machine correctly

How to sew with millimetre precision and achieve perfect seams each time

Learn to sew straight seams, curves and corners.

How to use different stitch types and how to adjust stitch sizes

How to understand and adjust thread tension and fix common stitch problems

Seam allowances - learn the different types, where to use them & why they matter in sewing, garment making & alterations

BEGINNER GARMENT ALTERATION & FITTING TECHNIQUES:

Fitting garments - a beginner friendly, step by step guide revealing the insider techniques used by professional seamstresses to achieve a flawless fit.

Measuring, shortening and sewing hems - learn how to measure precisely, shorten garments and sew clean, polished hems.

Adjusting seams - discover how to take in and let out seams for a personalised, professional - quality fit

Sewing darts - master the secrets to sewing darts that shape garments beautifully.

UNDERSTANDING GARMENT SIZING & FIT:

Learn how to take accurate body measurements, understand garment sizing and size charts, and how ease affects the fit of clothing.

✨What makes this class different from the rest?

Spend the day with MaryRose in her fashion studio for expert, in-depth sewing tuition, complete with access to your own Brother sewing machine, and all the fabric and thread you need — all included. Taught by an industry professional with extensive experience in design and garment construction, this class offers real-world insights and techniques you won’t find anywhere else. It’s the perfect starting point for your sewing journey, leaving you inspired, confident, and ready to dive into exciting projects and alterations with skill and creativity.

✨Where is the course held?

The course is held in MaryRose's fashion design studio in Conway Mill, Belfast. The address is Conway Mill, 5-7 Conway Street, Belfast BT13 2DE.

✨Who is this course suitable for?

This course is perfect for absolute beginners who have never used a sewing machine before and haven't a clue where to start - it is also ideal for those who have not sewn in years and need a refresher course to get back on track.

Garment alterations & fitting are also covered, so the course is suited for those who want to tailor their clothes for a bespoke, personalised fit.

✨What age do you have to be to take part in the class?

Adults aged 18+ are welcome to attend. Young sewers aged 12+ are also welcome, provided they are accompanied by a parent/guardian who is also booked on the course.

✨Do I need to bring a sewing machine with me?

No need - all students learn on the excellent Brother sewing machines supplied in class. The skills learned in class can be transferred onto other brands of sewing machines.

✨What do I need to bring with me on the day?

We supply your Brother sewing machine, all fabrics, threads and tools - however, you will need to bring the following:

Reading glasses if you need them for close-up work

A notebook and pen for all the notes and important info you will be taught in class.

✨How much does the c

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