Sewing, knitting and crochet

What will the course Cover?

Even if you have never made clothes before, you will be able to make a garment by the end of this course. If you have dressmaking experience, the tutor will guide you through more advanced techniques. This course includes basic tuition on the use of the sewing machine, taking body measurements, use of commercial patterns and the construction and finishing of garments. Focus will be on the construction of garments to a personal fit.

Who is this course for?

Anyone with an interest in dressmaking, fashion, clothes making.

What skills, knowledge or experience do I need to start this course?

None but a general interest in fashion, clothing and dressmaking would be useful.

What should I be able to do by the end of the course?

Demonstrate the ability to apply Health and Safety procedures in a sewing room. Thread and use a domestic sewing machine safely and accurately. Make an accurate lay prior to cutting out garment. Cut out garments with precision. Follow instructions set out in a commercially produced paper pattern. Make accurate tailors tacks to mark placement for darts, buttons etc. Make necessary adjustments to garments. Produce neatly sewn darts. Produce zip openings Attach buttons Choose correct interfacing to suit weight and colour of fabric. Continuers: Develop skills by working on garments with a greater degree of difficulty and new techniques. Also it may be possible to make a pattern from an existing garment.

How is the course organised?

Individual tuition - each student making a garment of their own choice. Practical demonstration, formal instruction will be given. Samples, photocopies available to show sewing details. Question and answer sessions.

What extra study or practice is expected outside of the class?

Buying own patterns and fabric. Reading magazines and reference books on sewing.

How will my progress be assessed?

Continuous assessment will occur in class and your Individual Learning Plan and Learning Journal will be used to record progress and give feedback between learner and tutor.

What can I expect to go on to after this course?

Further classes increasing skills or City and Guilds certificate.

Are there any other costs and what do I need to bring?

Please bring a basic sewing kit and an A4 ringbinder, paper and pen to the first class. Fabrics and patterns to be advised by the tutor.

What support is available?

You may wish to get additional help and guidance offered through the Study Support Sessions at the Macbeth Centre. Help with literacy or numeracy is available through the basic education programme and the ESOL programme offers help for speakers of other languages. Additional support can be provided for students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities. The Learner Support Fund is a discretionary scheme funded by the Adult Learning and Skills Service and the Skills Funding Agency to assist learners who may be experiencing difficulties in paying for course fees, essential equipment/materials or other necessary related expenses. The fund is open to all learners who are in receipt of an income related benefit or those learners who are on a low income. Details of all available support can be found on our website (hfals.co.uk), in the Guide and the Student handbook, or from teaching or Reception staff.