Sewing - All levels

Learn to sew with Stretch - Make a Comfy T-Shirt

Are you hesitant about sewing with stretch fabrics? You're not alone! Unleash your creativity and conquer your fears of sewing with stretch!

Join us for a one day sewing class and learn how to sew with knitted and jersey fabric on a regular sewing machine. Discover how to sew one of the most versatile wardrobe staples – the classic t-shirt – on your regular sewing machine, choosing from one of the following popular patterns: the Grainline Lark Tee, the Tilly and the Buttons Agnes Top or the Cashmerette Concord t-shirt.

Many sewists shy away from these materials, but with the right guidance, you can turn stretch fabric into your best friend.

In this hands-on class, you'll:

🌟Gain Confidence: Overcome common fears and challenges of sewing with stretchy materials.

🌟Learn Essential Techniques: Master simple yet effective tips and tricks to handle stretch fabrics with ease on your regular sewing machine

🌟Create a Classic T-Shirt: Walk away with a custom fit t-shirt that showcases your new skills.

Stretch fabrics open the door to endless possibilities, from comfy everyday wear to chic, fitted designs. Whether you're new to sewing or looking to expand your skills, this class will set you up for success with stretchy materials!

What You'll Get:

✂️Step-by-step instruction tailored for beginners and experienced sewists alike.

✂️A friendly, supportive environment where questions are encouraged.

✂️Confidence to take on future stretch sewing projects with ease.

2 dates are available:

Sunday 18th May 2025 (Tutor - Claire Heath)

Friday 13th June 2025 (Tutor - Lorna Hulme)

Spaces are limited, so don’t wait to start your stretch sewing journey!

Width
Running Time
9.30am - 4.00pm
£110

About this workshop

Pattern details:

The Lark Tee, a modern, slim fit ideal for layering, is a true wardrobe staple. It's great on its own or under your favourite button up, sweater, or blazer. All four sleeves are interchangeable with each of the necklines resulting in 16 potential different tees in one pattern!

Size range: Bust 32"-44", Waist 25"-37", Hips 35"-47"

The Agnes Top is a fitted t-shirt with a neckband, you can also add an optional ruched sweetheart neckline or ruched sleeves. You can also vary the length of the sleeve to your preference. (This will be supplied as a PDF pattern)

Size range: Bust 30"-60", Waist 24"-53", Hips 33"-61"

The Concord t-shirt is fully customisable and designed for curves, this knit T-Shirt is a classic wardrobe staple. Choose from three hem lengths (cropped, mid-length or long curved), three necklines (high, V-neck, or scoop), three sleeve lengths (short, medium, or long), two sleeve finishes (cuffed or hemmed), and optional sleeve tabs. The pattern also offers a range of cup sizes from C cup to H cup.

Size range: Bust 33"-62", Waist 25"-52", Hips 35"-62"

Further Information

  • Tips for cutting out and finding the grain of the fabric and direction of stretch
  • How to use a pattern to cut out your fabric
  • How to sew the garment together using a regular sewing machine - type of stitches and needle
  • How to use a twin needle
  • How to stabilise the shoulder seams
  • How to add a stretch neckband
  • How to insert a sleeve on the flat

Level 3 - please click here to read the description of this level to ensure it is suited to you.

Please note that the V-neck option in the Lark pattern is the trickiest choice. Only opt for this if you have some experience using stretch before and are a more experienced dressmaker. If you are looking for a further challenge opt for a stripy fabric.

  • 20% discount on supplies required for the workshop (fabric & notions)
  • 10% off any other fabrics purchased on the day of your course
  • Your very own copy of the Tilly and the Buttons Agnes, Grainline Lark or the Cashmerette Concord pattern
  • Use of all machines, tools and equipment
  • Stabilising tape for the shoulder seams
  • Tea/coffee and biscuits (please bring a packed lunch of visit one of the lovely local cafes)

Please get in touch and we can advise on what you'll need to bring, depending on your pattern of choice and which version you would like to make. This will include fabric and matching thread.

Cotton jersey fabrics are generally easier to work with so if you are still fairly new to dressmaking this will be a better choice. If you are generally a more experienced dressmaker, then a viscose or modal jersey fabric will pose an extra challenge.

* Please note - we would recommend you pre-wash all knit fabrics prior to attending the workshop! Please see the following blog post for guidance on pre washing*

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.

Lorna Hulme

Lorna is forever grateful to her Mum for teaching her to sew as an adult. She fell in love with everything sewing! So much so that she couldn’t bear to keep these skills to herself. Being driven by her passion for inspiring other people to sew, Lorna spent 7 years sharing this love of sewing through teaching others in her own sewing workshop business.

Lorna joined the Guthrie & Ghani team in January 2024 as the Workshops and events coordinator. She is responsible for organising the programme of events and sewing workshops and will be joining the team of sewing tutors too.

Lorna loves all aspects of sewing but her particular passion is dressmaking.

When she’s not sewing she enjoys running, cycling, running around after 2 teenagers and drinking hot chocolate!

Dates & Times

  • 9:30am £110
  • 9:30am £110