Kat Neeser

Have you made a couple of garments from commercial dressmaking patterns but wish you had more choice and a better fit? What if you could create your own designs, or copy your favourite clothes?

"Kat's course gave me the confidence I can actually make a pattern for anything I want" - Julia Miles, Business Coach, Hove

On this course you will make a perfectly-fitting skirt pattern template ('block') to your own measurements, then adapt it to create many different styles & design techniques - any skirt you can imagine can be made from this block! You'll then design a skirt & make a full size pattern for it to cut out and sew in our classes or at home.

You can use the same techniques at home to make trousers, dresses, tops etc. You'll actually also find shop-bought patterns much easier to understand and customise/alter with some pattern cutting knowledge under your belt.

Pattern cutting )also called pattern drafting) combines creativity and technical precision. To get the most out of this course you should have made at least one garment before using a sewing machine, be able to use a sewing machine without help and be happy using a calculator for basic maths.

A friendly, informal course for a small number of people, taught by experienced tutors. On this course you'll learn how to use a sewing machine, then make a simple cushion cover to practise your stitching techniques, & then make a purse to practise zips and darts.
We will provide sewing machines or you can bring your own.
Experience level: Absolute beginners or those who would like a refresher of the basics.

So you know how to use a sewing machine and have made a couple of basic items... now learn to make clothes from commercial dressmaking patterns, fit them to your size and sew up to an expert finish!
On this comprehensive 5 week course, we'll take you through the whole process of dressmaking for men's or women's clothes. Starting with measuring up, choosing a simple pattern, and buying fabric and trims on a group pattern-buying trip, then understanding what all those little symbols mean, through to cutting out and sewing up your gorgeous finished garment!