Tutor Marina Havinden

Saturday 8 June 10.30-4.30pm Once again this class is full! Contact us to go on the waiting list or to hear of new dates for this class

Level: Complete Beginners

Are you inspired by the Sewing Bee? Or has Father Christmas brought you a sewing machine last year and yet it’s still in its box? Is it decades since you sat at a sewing machine? Or maybe you’re thinking of buying a machine and would like a test drive first? If so, this is the class for you. We’ll show you what essentials you need to know, how to troubleshoot, and most importantly, how to get stitching!   

During the day, with Marina’s help, you will learn:

·                How your sewing machine works, finding your way around the knobs and buttons and how to look after it.

·                How to thread and install bobbins.

·                Threading up the machine.

·                Talking about tension and troubleshooting.

·                Needles – the correct one for the job and how to replace it.

·                Fabrics – how to cut, pin and stitch safely.

·                Learning to sew straight lines, curved seams and seam allowances

·                How to press seams.

·                Learning 3 basic seams – open, closed and French

In the afternoon, you’ll sew a simple 45cm (18-in) cushion cover, using your new skills. You’ll go home with a finished project and knowing you can officially call yourself a sewer. Welcome to the club!

Please bring to the class:

Ÿ        Sewing machine (or you can hire one subject to availability - just add to your basket if needed). Don’t forget the foot pedal, all the sewing feet provided, bobbins, bobbin case and instruction booklet etc.

Ÿ        Basic sewing kit containing - sharp fabric scissors, 12in ruler, pencil, pins, measuring tape and a stitch ripper.

Ÿ        Cotton thread in a dark/bright colour (eg navy, black or red) for stitching on the calico which we’ll provide.

Ÿ        Cotton thread to coordinate with your cushion fabric* or a neutral colour such as grey or cream.

 * We’ll provide you with 50cm of fabric of your choice (from fabrics up to £15/m) for your cushion, as part of your workshop fee. We have more than 1800 fabrics in the shop, so there’s plenty to choose from and you can buy the coordinating thread on the day if needed.

If you require any haberdashery during the day we stock a huge variety at Hometown.

Refreshments are provided during the day. There will be a break for lunch. You’re welcome to bring your own lunch, or there are a wide variety of coffee shops, tea rooms, delis and restaurants in the high street.

If you have any questions, please phone us on 01634 838880 before booking. Please note we do not send out reminders before the class as all the information you need is here! For car parking info, please refer to our Visit Us page.