Sewing 101: Dressmaking Foundations
Learn or refresh the essentials on this dressmaking course.
If you’re completely new to sewing, haven’t used a sewing machine since school, or you’re ready to get back into dressmaking after a break, this course will help you build the skills and confidence to get sewing.
Across the six weeks, we’ll take you through the essential foundations of dressmaking, starting with getting comfortable at the sewing machine before moving on to seams, hems, darts, facings, sleeves, pattern reading, fabric choice and cutting out your first garment.
As part of the course, you’ll also enjoy a fabric talk in our beautiful fabric shop, just downstairs from the studio! A member of the G&G team will guide you through choosing the right fabrics for your dressmaking projects and help you understand what to look for when you’re shopping for fabric. In week 5, you’ll get to put your new knowledge into practice with a supported shopping experience. Think of it as your very own G&G personal shopper, helping you choose fabric for your next project, with an exclusive workshop discount to use in store too.
If you’ve sewn before but feel a little rusty, this is also a great opportunity to refresh your sewing knowledge, fill in any gaps and get back into good sewing habits with the support of an experienced tutor.
As the course progresses, you’ll put everything you’ve learnt into practice by making your own Ashton Top. You’ll also build a portfolio of useful techniques and resources to refer back to as you continue sewing at home.
This course is perfect for you if:
- You’ve never used a sewing machine before
- You learnt to sew at school but can’t remember where to start
- You used to sew but haven’t done any dressmaking for a few years
- You’ve taught yourself some of the basics but would like to build stronger foundations
- You’d love to start making your own clothes but want some guidance and support
- You want to refresh your skills and feel more confident tackling sewing patterns independently
You don’t need any previous dressmaking experience. We’ll start with the foundations and build your knowledge step by step, with plenty of time to practise, ask questions and grow your confidence along the way.
Alternative pattern choice: Merchant & Mills Tee shirt
📅 Upcoming Course Options
Monday Evening Course
6 x Monday evenings starting 14th September 2026
6:00pm – 9:00pm
Week 2 finishes at 9:30pm
Tutor: Gemma
Wednesday Evening Course
6 x Wednesday evenings starting 11th November 2026
6:00pm – 9:00pm
Week 2 finishes at 9:30pm
Tutor: Alison
Sunday Course:
3 x Sundays February/March 2027
Sunday 28th February 2027, 10:00am – 5:00pm
Sunday 14th March 2027, 10:00am – 4:30pm
Sunday 21st March 2027, 10:00am – 4:30pm
Tutor: Claire
Learn or refresh the essentials on this dressmaking course.
If you’re completely new to sewing, haven’t used a sewing machine since school, or you’re ready to get back into dressmaking after a break, this course will help you build the skills and confidence to get sewing.
Across the six weeks, we’ll take you through the essential foundations of dressmaking, starting with getting comfortable at the sewing machine before moving on to seams, hems, darts, facings, sleeves, pattern reading, fabric choice and cutting out your first garment.
As part of the course, you’ll also enjoy a fabric talk in our beautiful fabric shop, just downstairs from the studio! A member of the G&G team will guide you through choosing the right fabrics for your dressmaking projects and help you understand what to look for when you’re shopping for fabric. In week 5, you’ll get to put your new knowledge into practice with a supported shopping experience. Think of it as your very own G&G personal shopper, helping you choose fabric for your next project, with an exclusive workshop discount to use in store too.
If you’ve sewn before but feel a little rusty, this is also a great opportunity to refresh your sewing knowledge, fill in any gaps and get back into good sewing habits with the support of an experienced tutor.
As the course progresses, you’ll put everything you’ve learnt into practice by making your own Ashton Top. You’ll also build a portfolio of useful techniques and resources to refer back to as you continue sewing at home.
This course is perfect for you if:
- You’ve never used a sewing machine before
- You learnt to sew at school but can’t remember where to start
- You used to sew but haven’t done any dressmaking for a few years
- You’ve taught yourself some of the basics but would like to build stronger foundations
- You’d love to start making your own clothes but want some guidance and support
- You want to refresh your skills and feel more confident tackling sewing patterns independently
You don’t need any previous dressmaking experience. We’ll start with the foundations and build your knowledge step by step, with plenty of time to practise, ask questions and grow your confidence along the way.
Alternative pattern choice: Merchant & Mills Tee shirt
📅 Upcoming Course Options
Monday Evening Course
6 x Monday evenings starting 14th September 2026
6:00pm – 9:00pm
Week 2 finishes at 9:30pm
Tutor: Gemma
Wednesday Evening Course
6 x Wednesday evenings starting 11th November 2026
6:00pm – 9:00pm
Week 2 finishes at 9:30pm
Tutor: Alison
Sunday Course:
3 x Sundays February/March 2027
Sunday 28th February 2027, 10:00am – 5:00pm
Sunday 14th March 2027, 10:00am – 4:30pm
Sunday 21st March 2027, 10:00am – 4:30pm
Tutor: Claire
About this workshop
What to Expect:
Over 6 weeks, you’ll learn a new skill each session, building a portfolio of essential sewing techniques.- By the end of the course, you'll have created your very first garment.
Course Highlights:
Hands-on learning with a professional sewist.- Personalised guidance and support.- Fun and engaging sessions that make learning enjoyable.- Perfect for absolute beginners and those needing a refresher.
Don’t miss this chance to learn from our expert tutor! Book below and take the first step towards creating your own handmade wardrobe. Limited spots available!
Throughout the 6 weeks you will learn
- How to use our sewing machines and how to sew simple seams and hems.
- How to understand grainlines, pressing and finishing seams and key terminology.
- How to sew facings and darts, understanding their uses and construction.
- How to insert a sleeve and learn about different types of sleeves as well as bias binding finishes.
- How to understand a sewing pattern
- How to cut out fabric pieces using the commercial sewing pattern
- Throughout the 6 weeks you will sew your first garment; a woven top using the popular Ashton Top from Helen's Closet. This pattern is very versatile, and you will have the option to make a sleeveless version, or use the Sleeve Expansion Pack to include a variety of sleeve options. The pattern comes in Size Range: 0-30 (up to a 58″ / 147.5 cm bust). You will need to select the choice between a B-cup pattern from sizes 0-22, and a D-cup pattern from sizes 12-30.
- In week 2 we will be holding a session based in the shop where an experienced member of the team will talk about different types of fabrics and their uses and you will have the opportunity to purchase the fabric for your final garment with some help and guidance. (This will take place at the start of the class, so please note the slightly later finish time).
Please note that due to time restrictions, you will be unable to complete the Petal Sleeve option, or add pockets to your top.
Due to the needs of the group and time available, the content of the course is subject to change. Everyone learns and sews at a different pace. Every effort will be made for you to complete the garment but there is also a chance you may not 100% finish. We will ensure you know how to complete the top at home after the course if this is the case.
Further Information
- How to set up a sewing machine
- Basic stitches including straight and zigzag
- Simple seams, seam allowances and key sewing terminology
- How to create a hem
- How to finish seam allowances
- The theory behind darts and facings; why they are used
- How to apply interfacing and what it is used for
- How to insert a sleeve
- How to understand the back of a sewing pattern and select your size
- How to layout and cut your pattern
- Techniques for transferring pattern markings
- And many top sewing tips along the way!
- How to understitch and clip seam allowances
- How to create different types of bias tape finishes
Level 1 - no experience required, total beginners welcome!
- 20% discount on supplies required for the workshop (fabric & notions) purchased during Week 2 at the shop talk
- An A0 print out of the PDF pattern - Helen's Closet Ashton Top & Sleeve Expansion Pack (US Sizes 0-30, bust 31"-58", waist 24"-48", hips 33"-58") If you fall out of the size range of the pattern included, please let us know in advance and we can arrange an alternative for you
- Fusible interfacing to complete your top
- Fabric packs to practise each technique
- Electronic handouts for each technique, to referred back to in the future
- Use of all top Prym tools, equipment and Brother sewing machines
- Tea/coffee and biscuits
- 10% off full priced fabrics during your dedicated shopping time on week 5 of the course (the shop will be open earlier, prior to the start of the session)
- 1.1m - 1.6m light to medium weight woven fabric such as cotton lawn. Some medium weight cottons or linen cotton blends are also suitable - The quantity of fabric will depend upon the size you make, and also the sleeve option you choose. This will be discussed in more detail during week 2 of your course. At the beginning of week 2 class, you will have a "fabric focus" session where you will have the opportunity to purchase your fabric with your 20% discount.
- Matching thread
Gemma Longley
Gemma was creative and crafty from a young age, leading her to join a sewing class at 14 where she honed her skills. She was then able to craft her prom dress.During university, Gemma delved into the fascinating crossover of Archaeology and fashion, focusing her dissertation on classical themes in regency dress. After graduating Gemma found a home at G&G, sharing her love for sewing with our wonderful customers.Beyond work, Gemma competes with her university's ballroom and Latin dancing team across the country!
Claire Heath
Sewing has always been a huge part of Claire's life. As a child she was always making, crafting and fixing things. Her love of fabric and making drove her to study Textiles and Fashion Design at Leeds University. After graduating and gaining some invaluable experience in the fashion and textiles industry Claire realised her true passion was sharing her skills and knowledge of garment construction with others.
Claire has been teaching design as a qualified lecturer for well over a decade. She joined the g&g team shortly after the shop opened in 2013 as a workshop tutor. During her time with us she has taught countless workshops and has loved helping customers learn how to sew and create wearable garments that will become staples of their me-made wardrobe.
Alison Ivens
Alison has always been crafty and over the years has tried her hand at all sorts, including jewellery making, felting and paper crafts, but over the last few years she has found her passion in sewing and crochet.
After finishing a Fine Art Printmaking degree and Masters in Gallery Studies Alison spent 18 years working as Museum Manager and Curator in a small Lichfield museum, and while this was an important part of her past, she is now enjoying the opportunity to talk dressmaking with our lovely customers.
When she's not at the shop Alison is a mum to two children who, along with her husband, benefit from her dressmaking. Her wardrobe is very eclectic and her favourite pattern is animal print, which she considers a neutral!
