Beginners Dressmaking Course
Learn the fundamentals of professional dressmaking over six weeks.
In this detailed series of classes, you'll make a basic skirt or pyjama pants from scratch. You'll first learn how to adjust a commercial pattern to fit your own body shape. Then, as you progress through the classes, you'll learn professional techniques for details such as darts, waist bands, zippers and hems, to ensure that your home-made garment looks as professional than those you'd find in a shop!
Duration: 2.5hrs x 6 weeks
Special Introductory Cost: $375
Dates: Monday May 16,23,30, June 6,20,26
Times: Day Session - 10am to 12.30pm or Evening Session - 6pm to 8.30pm
Numbers: Min 4, Max 6
The workshop includes
Guidance in techniques to prepare a commercial pattern and fabric to make a garment
Demonstration of the processes
Your own personally drafted pattern
What you will learn
You'll learn how to understand and adjust a commercial pattern to fit your own body measurements.
You will learn about fabric types and how to correctly cut out pattern pieces
Professional techniques for details such as darts, waist bands, zippers and hems
How to use your sewing machine
What you will get
Your own personally fitted unique skirt or pyjama pants
Expert tuition from an experienced teacher
What to bring
Your sewing machine, machine accessories, spare needles and instruction manual (please check your machine is working correctly before the class)
A basic sewing kit including: scissors, ruler, pencil, notepaper, chalk, pins, measuring tape, needles, thread etc
Sufficient fabric to make a skirt (approx. 2 to 3metres, depending on your size and desired length) – medium weight fabrics are best eg linen, sturdy cotton, fine corduroy are great choices but stay away from flimsy, slippery or very thick/heavy fabrics.
What to wear
Comfortable casual clothing
Closed toe shoes
Appropriate for
Anyone 15 and over who has an interest in learning to make patterns
Teacher: Barbara Niglio
Barbara is a professional artist/dressmaker/designer and an experienced teacher. She has a background in fashion and has developed a keen interest in environmentally sustainable practises. Her artwork combines traditional making techniques with unusual materials that most would consider waste. Wearable art pieces have been displayed in various art shows and fashion parades including two solo exhibitions. Barbara enjoys teaching new skills to people and delights in observing the ‘feel-good’ factor that comes with their discovering creative abilities.
Booking form
We will send you a booking confirmation email and payment information