Introduction to clothes making
Time: 18:00 - 21:00
Location: Keeley Street
Choose a start date
- Course Code: VJ111
- Dates: 02/10/24 - 06/11/24
- Time: 18:00 - 21:00
- Taught: Wed, Evening
- Duration: 6 sessions (over 6 weeks)
- Location: Keeley Street
- Tutor: Silvia Sacrestano
Course Code: VJ111
Choose a start date
Duration: 6 sessions (over 6 weeks)
Please note: We offer a wide variety of financial support to make courses affordable. Just visit our online Help Centre for more information on a range of topics including fees, online learning and FAQs.
What is the course about?
You will learn how to achieve a professional finish through making fabric samples of various methods for seams, pockets, facings and hems. You will learn how to read basic patterns so you can cut out basic samples. Skills will be developed through practising on a basic top sample for which the tutor will supply the pattern.
What will we cover?
With individual use of a Bernina sewing machine, the tutor will guide you through how to use the sewing machine and the basic sewing techniques used in making up tops. Seams will include plain, zigzag and French. You will also produce samples of darts, pockets and hems. Pressing and finishing will also be covered. You will have the opportunity to practise on samples and make up a top sample within the class, using techniques learnt.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
- Demonstrate basic machine sewing techniques
- Use the sewing machine with increased confidence
- Produce a range of sewing samples for future reference
- Produce a basic top
Fast learners will:
- Produce extra samples techniques on a challenging fabric.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This course is ideal for complete beginners to clothes making. No previous experience required. This is an introductory course in which students can learn the basic sewing machine skills and techniques used in sewing for a basic top.
You should be able to follow simple written and verbal instructions to support demonstrations, hand-outs and 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.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
Through practical demonstrations, workshop practice and one-to-one support. Participation in group discussions and feedback are encouraged. Additional / extension tasks may be set for you to complete at home and outside of the course hours. Completion of additional tasks is encouraged to help you get the most out of the course. When required your tutor will discuss these with you during each session.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
Bring a notebook and pen or pencil and a bag for your work. Basic materials and resources are provided and you will be advised on what other items you need to purchase between sessions or brought in. In order to complete some of the tasks at home, you may need to purchase fabric scissors, pins and a tape measure.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
We run a range of fashion courses where you can expand your learning from this course such as Clothesmaking II and, Sewing on Sundays II. Please browse our website for upcoming dates for these courses.
General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Student Centre and Library on Monday to Friday from 12:00 – 14:00 then 16:00 – 18:00.
Silvia Sacrestano is a Italian fashion print designer graduated from Central Saint Martin’s year 2000, working as a freelance artist for fashion, community projects, museums and academic schools as: Fashion textile print designer, screen print designer, carnival costume artist, pattern cutter ,clothes making & soft furnishing ,combining cad embroidery, felt making, art, craft & food for the wellbeing. Silvia is a creative, young spirited person, full of energy always looking for exciting projects to share & to work in collaboration with other creative minds & students. She is organized, patient, with lots of artistic skills, looks for challenges, specialised in working with children, families & adults. Silvia is based in central London; she is interested in helping the community by sharing her knowledge, enthusiasm & artistic tools of self-expression. She infuses others with her passion, to inspire and to be inspired. By participating in her workshops you will feel energetic, have fun and be creative, whilst exploring visual imagination & wellbeing. You will use experimental and innovative techniques with a unique artistic approach.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.
