Introduction to using a commercial sewing pattern

Learn how to buy a pattern for your size and how to cut it out. Recognise symbols and keys in the instructions and follow fabric lays for your style. Understand what some of the puzzling sewing terminology means.

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Key course information

Date
01/04/12

Day(s)
Sun

Duration
1 week

Time
10:30 - 16:30

Fees
Full fee: £56^NC

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

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Course code
VX116

Availability
This course has finished

^NC: No concessionary fees available as there is no government funding for this course.

This course has finished

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Still got questions?
visualarts@citylit.ac.uk or call 020 7492 2700

Course outline

What is the course about?

You will look at different patterns available and how to choose and buy for your size. You will learn how to cut out the paper pattern and understand grain lines and fabric lays. You will be advised on the various terminology and symbols used within the pattern as well as some of the more difficult to understand sewing directions and the process of garment construction using the instructions.

What topics will we cover?

You will learn how to measure yourself before you buy your pattern and be given help with understanding the pattern envelope including how much fabric to buy. You will learn which pattern pieces you need to use and how to cut them out. What certain terminology and symbols mean and how to lay up your fabric and pattern ready for cutting out and sewing. You will be taught how to transfer markings from the pattern to the fabric and what some of the sewing instructions mean. There will also be guidance on where to buy patterns and tips on what to avoid when choosing a pattern for beginners.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

- Be confident in knowing how to choose the right size commercial pattern
- Demonstrate competence in knowing how to cut out the paper pattern
- Understand the symbols, keys and information given on the pattern
- Be able to follow the correct fabric lay
- Have knowledge of how to transfer pattern markings to the fabric
- Be confident in the meaning of certain sewing terminology.
- Know how to prepare your pattern ready for the sewing stage.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

For beginners who have never used a commercial sewing pattern before.

You should be able to follow simple written and verbal instructions to support demonstrations, hand-outs and for
health and safety information, and will be invited to take part in group discussion. You should be able to use
numbers and be able to do simple measurements and calculations.

Please look at the rest of the course outline carefully to decide if you may benefit from support in your English
and Maths skills to help you to take part fully in this class.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

Through demonstrations, discussions, workshop practice, one to one instruction and guidance and group work.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

Bring a notebook and pen.

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

No.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

There are beginners courses in sewing and clothes making and Clothes Making Intensive 3 where more advanced sewers are encouraged to bring a commercial pattern into class to work with.

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2700

visualarts@citylit.ac.uk

Please email us for advice or call us during these times:

Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays - 9.00 -12.00 & 15:00-18:00

Thursdays - 9.00-12.00

Saturdays - 14.00-17.00

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.

Contact us

Visual arts

Tel: 020 7492 2700

visualarts@citylit.ac.uk

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