Here is a brief guide to our 6 session intermediate course. Each session is approximately 2 hours long. By the end of the workshop, participants will:
- Confidently read, adjust, and follow commercial patterns.
- Understand garment fitting, shaping, and finishing techniques.
- Sew complex features (zips, darts, pleats, buttonholes, linings).
- Produce at least two professionally finished projects.
Session 1 – Refresh & Refine Core Skills
Objectives:
- Review foundational sewing knowledge.
- Perfect machine control, accuracy, and seam finishing.
- Introduce intermediate sewing vocabulary and tools.
Activities:
- Machine tension, needle choice, and stitch testing.
- Practice topstitching, understitching, overcasting, and edge finishing.
- Create a technique sampler (stitched fabric reference sheet).
- Discuss differences in fabrics: denim, stretch, lining, and interfacing.
Skills Gained:
- Stitch precision
- Edge finishing
- Fabric management
Session 2 – Pattern Reading & Adjustment
Objectives:
- Understand how to modify a basic pattern for fit and style.
- Learn how to measure accurately and adapt for body shape.
Activities:
- Take and record body measurements.
- Discuss ease, darts, and fit adjustments.
- Trace and alter a simple commercial pattern (e.g., blouse, skirt, or pyjama trousers).
- Learn how to add seam allowances, lengthen/shorten patterns, and grade sizes.
Skills Gained:
- Pattern modification
- Fit awareness
- Measurement accuracy
Session 3 – Shaping & Construction Techniques
Objectives:
- Explore darts, pleats, gathers, and tucks for garment shaping.
- Combine different techniques into structured sewing.
Activities:
- Practise dart sewing, gathering with two rows of stitching, and creating pleats.
- Apply techniques on sample fabric.
- Begin main project: A-line skirt or pyjama trousers (fitted waistband).
Skills Gained:
- Shaping garments
- Controlled sewing
- Pattern application
Session 4 – Fastenings & Openings
Objectives:
- Master inserting zips, buttonholes, and other fastening types.
- Understand facings, plackets, and interfacing.
Activities:
- Practice centred and invisible zip insertion.
- Sew machine buttonholes and attach buttons neatly.
- Apply facings or waistbands to the ongoing garment project.
- Learn stabilising with interfacing for crisp finishes.
Skills Gained:
- Zips
- Buttonholes
- Interfacing
- Finishing details
Session 5 – Lining & Hemming
Objectives:
- Learn how to add linings for structure and neatness.
- Explore hemming techniques for different fabrics and garments.
Activities:
- Demonstrate and practise:
- Bagging out linings
- Blind hemming
- Rolled hems (for lightweight fabrics)
- Complete lining for skirt or top project.
- Introduce pressing and steaming for a professional finish.
Skills Gained:
- Lining
- Professional hemming
- Garment finishing
Session 6 – Final Garment Project & Showcase
Objectives:
- Complete a full intermediate-level garment from start to finish.
- Demonstrate understanding of fit, finish, and technique.
Activities:
- Choose one project:
- Fitted skirt or blouse
- Pyjama set or dress
- Zip-up pouch or lined tote with pockets
- Plan layout, cut fabric, construct, and finish garment.
- End-of-course showcase and feedback session.
Skills Gained:
- Project planning
- Independent sewing
- Professional finishing
Suggested Materials List (Per Participant)
- Sewing machine & toolkit
- Fabric scissors & snips
- Measuring tape, pins, and seam ripper
- Pattern paper or tracing paper
- Calico or muslin for test garment
- Fashion fabric (cotton, denim, or viscose blend)
- Zip, interfacing, buttons, lining fabric
- Matching thread