Whether you are a complete beginner and would like to start dressmaking, or you would like some guidance to make a complete garment, this is for you. You will start off by learning all about the pattern. Then you will take accurate measurements of yourself and cut out your fabric accordingly. Lastly you will sew your garment so that you can wear it with pride.
For beginners we recommend sewing a pattern such as the Tilly and the Buttons Jaimie pyjamas, Lotta dress, or Stevie dress/top. However, you are welcome to sew a different pattern and we ask that you discuss the pattern with us before the workshop.
You will learn how to:
Understand a dressmaking pattern envelope;
Accurately measure yourself and translate those measurements to the pattern;
Grade between sizes;
Trace your pattern so your pattern is preserved for future use;
Accurately cut out your fabric;
Transfer pattern markings to your fabric;
Sew up your garment using simple seams and edge finish them to prevent fraying;
Hem your garment.
Please note: some of the techniques may vary according to which garment you choose to make.
Skill Level:
Confident beginner
Suitable for anyone who knows how to use a sewing machine.
What is included:
Use of our tools and equipment;
Expert instruction;
Maximum of class size of 6 people;
Your own desk with a storage cupboard underneath;
Tea/coffee and biscuits (sewing essentials!);
10% discount on purchases made whilst attending the workshop;
Free parking (Burghley Street carpark is the nearest).
Materials required:
(these are all available to purchase in our shop):
Sewing pattern
Fabric – we can advise according to the pattern chosen
Notions – we can advise according to the pattern chosen
Thread – we recommend a good quality thread such as Gutermann Sew-All or rPet
Dressmaker’s tracing paper – we recommend Burda tissue paper, Hemline tracing paper or Swedish tracing paper
Sewing machine with pedal (the pedal frequently gets forgotten!!) – if you need to use one of our machines please let us know and we will have one set up ready for you
Tutor:
Leanne de Lima Araujo – Leanne is the owner of Gather ‘N’ Sew. Her family and friends will tell you that when she is not at work, she is on her sewing machine making garments, quilts, soft furnishings, bags and gifts. Leanne has been teaching for 10 years and has also designed most of the bags, quilts and other items taught in our workshops. Find out more.
Booking information:
How to book:
All workshops must be paid for in full at the time of booking.
Bookings may be made online, over the phone or in the shop and can be made up to 24 hours before the start of the workshop provided there are spaces available.
Due to the limited availability of places and the costs incurred in running a workshop, payments are non-refundable and non-transferrable unless someone can be found to take your place. So, please check your diary carefully before making a booking.
By booking a workshop you agree to all of our terms and conditions.
Cancellations:
In the unfortunate event that you need to cancel a booking, please contact us as soon as possible. Sometimes we have a waiting list and may be able to find someone to replace you.
In the unlikely event that we will need to cancel a workshop due to not having enough attendees to make the workshop viable, staff illness or exceptional circumstances, we will give you at least 24 hours notice via e-mail and offer you a transfer, full refund, or voucher.
If you are running late for a workshop, please ring us to let us know. Unfortunately, if you are more than half an hour late, you will be unable to attend as there won’t be enough time to catch up and it will be disruptive to the other attendees.
Attending the workshop:
Within one week of booking, we will send you a confirmation e-mail. If you don’t receive one, please check your spam/junk folder.
The e-mail will include a full list of materials required, all of which are available to purchase in the shop or from our website. Please contact us ASAP with any queries.
All materials required must be purchased prior to attending the workshop.
A reminder e-mail will be sent one week before the workshop date.
For all workshops (apart from Know Your Machine) you will need to know how to use a sewing machine.
To save time we highly recommend that you wind your bobbin and thread your machine at home.
Please arrive a little before the start of the workshop so you can get set up and there is no delay or disruption to other workshop attendees. Admittance to the classroom will be permitted 15 minutes before the start of the class.
During each workshop you will make the item we have designed and to the dimensions we have specified.
Details of nearby parking facilities are listed on our Visit Us page.
