Beginner Garment Sewing

Learning to sew garments is easier than you think! Make yourself a great looking tunic top/coverup with Simplicity pattern 8657 ("short caftan" view) while learning all the fundamentals you need to get started sewing clothes. No garment sewing experience is necessary-we will walk you through the entire process! This is a series of 3 weekly 3 hour sessions with no homework required.
You will learn about pattern and fabric selection, cutting out your fabric, sewing machine basics, and beginning techniques for garment construction. We will cover fitting/alteration basics to be sure the finished garment is flattering on you. After this 3-session class, you will feel confident tackling garment construction and will want to learn more!
Fabric for your top (purchased separately from the shop, NOT included in class fee) will include cotton fabric (about 2.5
-3 yards needed) , and you can customize your top with sleeve bands and a back tie in a contrasting fabric(s) if desired (1/4 yd or 2 fat quarters will do). However, PLEASE do not purchase your fabric from the shop until the first class after we discuss sizing and options for this garment. Time will be allotted during class for you to purchase your fabric.
Class level: beginning garment sewer and up
If interested in taking the class, please purchase Simplicity pattern 8657 ASAP while it is available. You can find it online. JoAnn may have the best price if still available. It is a multi-size pattern, (XXS-2X) and we will use your bust measurement plus a few inches of ease to choose the size to cut. It will probably be a smaller size than you normally wear due to the very loose fit of this pattern. If you need a size larger than 2X, please contact the shop, and the teacher can draft a pattern for you up to 4X if we have 2 weeks’ notice before the first class.
Supplies to bring:
Basic sewing machine, power cord/pedal, bobbins, and manual, or rent a machine from the shop for the class?
Universal sewing machine needles, size 80 or 90
Basic sewing supplies, including scissors, pins, fabric marking pen, ruler, etc.
Polyester or cotton thread, 50 weight or so, in a color to match/blend with the base fabric
Simplicity 8657 pattern (not available at the shop)
Also: Be prepared to purchase fabric(s) for your top during the first day’s class after some explanation from the teacher.
Teacher will provide the bias tape for the neckline.


Skill Level: | Beginner |
Skill Details: | |
Instructor: | Lorie Hughes |
Instructor Bio: | Lorie Hughes comes from a long line of needlewomen who love to embroider, sew, craft, quilt and decorate. She started as a little girl sewing clothes for her Barbies and completed her graduation dress from elementary school at the age of 13. So began a lifetime of enjoyment from creating with fabric and thread. Today, she loves teaching sewing and is semi-retired in Lakemont, Georgia. |
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This class cannot be purchased online. Please contact the store for more information.