Here is a brief guide to our 6 session beginners course. Each session is approximately 2 hours long. By the end of the workshop, participants will:
- Understand how to safely use a sewing machine.
- Know basic sewing terminology and tools.
- Read and follow a simple sewing pattern.
- Complete 2–3 finished projects using essential techniques.
Session 1 – Getting Started with Sewing
Objectives:
- Understand basic equipment and workspace setup.
- Learn sewing safety and machine operation.
- Practise threading and stitching on fabric scraps.
Activities:
- Tour of tools (machine parts, bobbin, thread, needles, scissors, pins).
- Threading demo and hands-on practice.
- Practise sewing straight and curved lines on paper, then on fabric.
- Create a small stitched sampler to take home.
Skills Gained:
- Machine setup
- Basic stitching
- Hand-eye coordination
Session 2 – Fabric Fundamentals & Simple Seams
Objectives:
- Learn how to select, prepare, and cut fabric.
- Practise different seam types and pressing.
Activities:
- Fabric handling and grainline demo.
- Using a ruler, pins, and fabric shears.
- Sew and press plain seam, zig-zag edge, and French seam.
- Begin first small project: Fabric coaster or simple square cushion cover.
Skills Gained:
- Cutting accuracy
- Straight seams
- Finishing edges
Session 3 – Introducing Patterns & Pinning
Objectives:
- Understand how to read and use basic sewing patterns.
- Learn layout, pinning, and marking techniques.
Activities:
- Overview of pattern symbols, cutting layouts, and seam allowances.
- Practise tracing and cutting out a pattern.
- Begin project: Tote bag or drawstring bag.
Skills Gained:
- Pattern reading
- Pinning
- Cutting to pattern
- Sewing for construction
Session 4 – Assembling Your First Project
Objectives:
- Combine previous skills into a completed project.
- Learn reinforcement and finishing techniques.
Activities:
- Continue tote bag/drawstring bag project.
- Learn backstitching, topstitching, and hemming.
- Discuss common machine issues and troubleshooting.
Skills Gained:
- Assembly
- Finishing touches
- Stitch control
- Troubleshooting
Session 5 – Expanding Techniques – Fastenings & Shape
Objectives:
- Introduce zips, buttons, and basic shaping (darts or gathering).
- Explore decorative stitching and creativity.
Activities:
- Practise inserting a zip or sewing a buttonhole.
- Mini sampler of fastening techniques.
- Optional project: Zip pouch, scrunchie, or simple apron.
Skills Gained:
- Fastenings
- Decorative skills
- Creative confidence
Session 6 – Final Project & Showcase
Objectives:
- Apply all learned skills to a chosen final project.
- Gain confidence in pattern reading and finishing.
- Celebrate completed work.
Activities:
- Plan and complete one of the following:
- Envelope cushion cover
- Elastic-waist skirt
- Small soft toy or pouch
- Final pressing, photographing, and group sharing session.
Skills Gained:
- Independent sewing
- Confidence
- Finishing & presentation
Suggested Materials List (Per Participant)
- Sewing machine (shared or personal)
- Fabric scissors & small snips
- Pins, needles, seam ripper
- Measuring tape & chalk pencil
- Iron access
- Threads in neutral and colour choices
- 1–2 metres of cotton fabric (medium weight)
- Simple pattern (tote bag or skirt)
- Zip, elastic, or buttons (depending on project)