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Dressmaking materials and fabrics

Sewing - Clothesmaking

Price:
£229.00
Starts:
19/04/2024
Day of week:
FRI
Ends:
12/07/2024
Location:
Canterbury Adult Education Centre, Canterbury
Time:
13:30 - 16:00
Duration:
12 weeks

This course has started, but it may still be possible to join it. Please call 03000 41 22 22* and ask to be put through to the Centre where the course is running

Learn how to make your own clothes using high quality construction methods.
You will be guided and supported by your specialist tutor to develop your own project ideas and to complete a garment of your choice.

The tutor will teach you all the processes needed to successfully complete your project/garment.
These will include: choice of pattern and fabric, basic pattern alterations, basic fitting, cutting of fabric, basic construction methods (seam finishes, correct pressing for your fabric, sewing darts, invisible, lapped and fly front zips, waistbands and facings, machine buttonholes and use of interfacings).

Machine projects may include jacket fitting, setting sleeves, collar construction, lining jackets and coats using the bagging out method, pockets, trouser fitting and handling special fabrics such as velvet, leather, sheers and silks.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

- Identify correct fabric inline with chosen pattern
- Measure and cut fabric to pattern requirements
- Carry out alterations after basic fitting
- Select and use appropriate settings on a sewing machine.
- Sew and neaten a seam.
- Use sewing techniques as required by your garment pattern.
- Complete and finish your chosen garment
- Use tools and equipment safely


There is no set ‘homework’, but to get the most out of the course, you are welcome to do further work at home.
There is no qualification for this course.


There is limited parking on site, but there is a public car park nearby and on-street parking.

To find out more about our clothesmaking and sewing courses, watch this short video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zYnpfyLpjl4

Who is the tutor?

About the Tutor: Barbara Roots

Barbara Roots is a couture clothesmaker whose specialities are weddings and occasion wear. She has been making clothes for herself and customers for 20 years and teaching for more than 15 years. Her clothes are made to the highest standards. Barbara studied at Kent Institute of Art and Design and London College of Fashion.

View all courses taught by Barbara Roots here

How will I be taught?

The tutor will use a variety of teaching methods including demonstration, instructions, one-to-one tutorial guidance, group discussions and critiques.

There will be individual and group feedback and self-assessment against individualised learning outcomes stated on your ILP (individual learning plan).

At the beginning of your course, your tutor will undertake an initial assessment to ensure that your course will meet your personal learning journey.

What do I need to bring with me?

Your sewing machine as it is recommended that you get used to using your own machine.

We do have limited number of sewing machines for student use.

Please bring along:
Scissors, tape measure, pins, pattern, fabric, threads, interfacings, buttons and zips.

What can I do next?

During your course, your tutor will offer guidance in your personal progression route.

Courses are designed to progress students to higher levels of the craft. In addition, our courses support application to "Access to Degree Foundation courses" leading to Higher Education opportunities.

Kent Adult Education website offers many courses for students wishing to develop a self-employed business. Please speak with your tutor if you have an interest in self-employment or an interest in developing career options in this chosen craft.

What do I need to join the course

This course is designed for those with some experience of clothesmaking. It is important to note that craft courses are practical, requiring a degree of manual dexterity. If you need to bring a carer with you, or be accompanied by another person, please ask to speak to the Curriculum Leader before you enrol.

For complete Beginners, please check our website for Beginner courses in Sewing and clothesmaking.

Getting to your course

Find us

Canterbury Adult Education Centre
Canterbury High School
Knight Avenue
Canterbury
Kent
CT2 8QA

If you require any information about this location then please call 03000 41 22 22* and quote the Course Code CAN/128556/N/PF.