Intro to Sewing Garments

About this experience

If you've completed Foundations (or have equivalent experience) and are ready for the next step, join Nicole or Jeanniene as they guide you through the process of making simple garments.

 

We will work with you before the class to individually choose an appropriate pattern that will allow you to finish your whole project in the workshop (no guarantees of course, but we try our best)!

 

Please note: You must arrive at the first class with project chosen and fabric pre-washed. You can schedule your free consultation by texting Nicole at 250-890-3318, or coming in during shop hours (please don't pop in between 3-5, as we have busy kids' classes then!)

Before class, each student will get individual help selecting fabric, working through the patterns sizing guide and understanding how to read the back to get everything you need. You can choose of of our selected patterns at a 20% discount, or get in touch if you have something else in mind. I created the above collection with the goal of achievable patterns for a beginner class.

This class really focuses on construction, so a loose fitting, simple garment is best to start with, so that you can save detailed fitting challenges for a different project. We have a number of appropriate patterns, including basic linen or cotton pants, tshirts, simple dresses. We work on gorgeous seam finishing so you can have a simple garment that you are so proud of! Our goal is to give you the confidence to complete projects at home after this class!

The class schedule is as follows:

Before Class: 15 minute free consultation to choose a pattern and appropriate fabric. Schedule by texting or stopping in. If you’d like to bring  project from outside of The Spool’s collection, please send your ideas ahead of time to be sure that it’s appropriate for the timing of the class. Please wash your fabric ahead of week one!

 

Week 1: Preparing your patterns and fabric for sewing

• Understanding Size Charts


• Finished Measurements- choosing your size/blending sizes


• Reading pattern envelopes and pattern pieces


• Cutting out Patterns and Fabric- with scissors or rotary cutter

 

Week 2: Demonstration and practice of essential garment skills, beginning your project

• Seam finishes


• Sewing with Knits


• Pressing Seams


• Sewing Darts


• Clipping Corners/Curves


• Begin your project!

Week 3: Focus on Construction

• This week you will be following your pattern instructions with support to dive into construction

 

Week 4: Finishing Skills and Techniques

• Neckline finishes for wovens and knits 


• Hemming Options


• Testing fit and making plans for future adjustments.