Brief Description

On our Dressmaking course you will be guided through the purchase of fabrics and patterns. You will learn how to make basic pattern alterations, cut out, assemble and fit your garments. As well as this, you will be taught basic dressmaking techniques and make samples to practice your skills. There will be plenty of help with lockstitch and over lock sewing machines, if required. For the more advanced learner, you will be encouraged to make more complicated garments.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

All people interested in dressmaking from beginners to the more experienced wanting to brush up their skills.

Learning Outcomes:

The learning outcomes are listed for a full year – 3 terms of tuition. The tutor will adjust the course around the learners enrolled.

By the end of the course (full academic year – 3 terms) you will have the opportunity to:

Beginners:
• know how to use a lockstitch and overlock sewing machines
• learn how to use a domestic dressmaking pattern
• understand the importance of a well fitted garment
• know how to assemble a garment in the correct order
• learn a variety of dressmaking skills e.g. inserting zips, different seam finishes, pockets, hems.

Intermediates:
• appreciate how to use a variety of fabrics e.g. stretch, velvet.
• learn a variety of dressmaking skills to produce a professional finish e.g. attaching collars, cuffs, pockets, button.
• make garments including more complicated skills and processes

Advanced:
• work on achieving a professional finish to your garments
• make more complicated garments e.g. coats, jackets.
• alter patterns
• use luxurious fabrics
• work more independently

Extra costs on the course for example text book, materials or equipment:

In order to make a garment you will need to purchase fabric, a pattern and a sewing kit which includes: stitch scissors, dressmaking shears, steel pins, and tape measure. All of these will be discussed in the first session. Each student will also need at least one metre of fabric to make their samples, an old sheet or quilt cover is ideal.

For the first session you will need to bring:

If you have a sewing machine at home you might find it beneficial.

You will need to bring a note book, tape measure, pencil and pen.
I would advise all beginners not to buy a pattern and fabric before the first session.

On completion of this course, what might your next steps be?

The tutor will advise you.

Adult Learn and Train offer courses through-out the year.
Try similar courses or maybe look at learning something completely new.
You will find provision on some Saturdays and Sundays, you will also find courses available in the day and evening at different venues in Cambridge. Courses vary in length from one-off sessions to 10 weeks or more.