You've got your foundational sewing skills, now you're ready to explore working with patterns and making your own clothes!

Our Beginners Sewing 3 class is designed to help participants move into making their own clothes and is a natural a follow on class to our 'Beginners Sewing 1' (introduction to using a sewing machine) & Beginners Sewing 2 (zips, buttonholes & bindings) or for those who already have been using a sewing machine and made various items but are new to garment making and working with patterns.

Through this class participants will start to understand how to use commercial patterns, the terminolgy used, follow the consruction process and get the right fit. In the afternoon build your sewing confidence by going through the steps of making a simple garment (It's likely you won't complete the garment during this 1 day session, but you are welcome to come back and get some additional supervision at one of our fortnightly Thursday evening "Craft Clubs" (https://fabrications1.co.uk/calendar/))

On completion of this class participants will confidently be able to:

- Be aware of different commercial pattern formats and the benefits & drawbacks (Paper Patterns, PDF, Tracing Off)

- Understand the terms of reference and how to read commercial patterns.

- Know which areas of your body to measure to check against the pattern sizing to ensure you get the correct fit and have enough fabric!

- Preparing the cloth* for cutting, laying out your pattern and transferring pattern features.

-Understanding grain line, seam allowances and notches.

- Apply foundational elements such as darts, pleats, pockets and fastenings. Using 'interfacing'

- "Top Stitch" and "Understitch".

- Start your journey towards creating durable and professionally made garments.

*We also encourage using patterns for creative upcycling and reuse, and sourcing second hand textiles and clothing as a source of cloth for 'new' garments.

Pattern Guidance for this workshop:

If using a PDF pattern, ensure you print out onto AO or sellotape your A4 sheets together in advance and ready for the class, as to not 'eat into' the teaching/learning time.

Ensure your choice of pattern is suitable for your size. Many pattern brands are becoming much more size inclusive (but always best to check)

If you want to use patterned fabric choose a small repeat or abstract design that doesn't need "pattern matching" (this process will be explained during the class, so you have an understanding for future projects!)

Please stick to the type of fabric that your choice of pattern recommends. Eg: the pattern is for stretch jersey and you bring cotton (it is possible to convert and again this process will be explained during the class, so you have an understanding for future projects!)

Avoid complex, multi panelled and lined items. We suggest something straightforward such as a top / t-shirt, skirt/shorts, simple trouser designs or children's clothing.

About the Tutor: The class is taught by Barley Massey (https://fabrications1.co.uk/shop/barley-massey/) - a life long "sewist", passionate about creative reuse and encouraging others into the joys of making, remaking and mending. Barley used to work in costume for film & TV before establishing "Fabrications" on Broadway Market 25 years ago. She is an experienced tutor, aiming to build student's self confidence and knowledge. She teaches a regular programme at Fabrications as well as with other organisations and at events.

Class Size: 4 Students

Time: 11am - 5:30pm (Please arrive promptly)

Where: The class will take place in Fabrications "Re Imaginerium" (https://fabrications1.co.uk/classes/hire-us-our-space/) studio (we no longer have a shop cat as depicted in one of the photos!) which is downstairs from the shop via 12 steps. The studio is light and bright with a homely feel to help you feel relaxed and inspired whilst learning. You will have your own work area (with some shared facilities like ironing, cutting table) We purposefully keep class sizes small to ensure a quality experience and plenty of guidance time with the tutor.

Please Bring: Your choice of pattern and suitable fabric to accompany (plus a suitable zip if needed). We suggest something straightforward such as a top / t-shirt, skirt/shorts or simple trouser designs or even bag designs. Please contact us if you'd like to discuss pattern choices and receive some guidance. We have a selection of threads and some habberdashery and also some 'spare' patterns you can use if you just want to go through the process.

Please Note: There is no food or drink allowed in the studio, You are welcome to bring a sealed water bottle but please ensure all 'take outs' are consumed before arriving. For full day classes there is a scheduled lunch break.

Scroll down for Frquently asked questions.

Full Booking Terms & Conditions: HERE (https://fabrications1.co.uk/classes/booking-terms/)

For more information on Fabrications and our classes, please visit our Website (http://fabricat

Description supplied by the event organiser.