Description

Overview

This sewing course is a follow-on from the tote bag project, but complete beginners are welcome if they don’t mind tackling a zip!  This class is ideal for people who can use a sewing machine and are ready for more detailed techniques such as patch pockets and centred zips.  Those returning to sewing after a long break are also very welcome.  At the end of 6 weeks, you’ll leave with a cute zippered pouch that can be used as a pencil case or makeup bag – perfect for storage, gift-giving, or both.

You’ll learn how to:

• Construct patch pockets;
• Insert a centred zip;
• Follow instructions to make a lined makeup bag.

There are 6 places and 6 sewing machines available, but you can bring your own sewing machine if you’d prefer.  Don’t worry if your machine isn’t identical to the ones in class.  Once you get the hang of threading up the machine, your confidence will grow and you’ll be less intimidated by other models.  Plus, you’ll be around people in the same boat and a teacher only too willing to help!

Equipment and materials

You’ll need to bring:

• Your own sewing kit (fabric scissors, paper scissors, sewing pins, a pincushion, tape measure, hand sewing needles, thread to match your fabric)
• A notebook and pen or pencil

Full instructions and fabric will be provided, but you are welcome to bring your own fabric.  If you do, you’ll need half a metre of shell/outer fabric and half a metre of lining fabric, preferably 150cm wide.  You may be able to make more than one bag out of this quantity, which is great news if you’re making gifts!

Please do not choose anything synthetic or with drape – e.g., rayon, viscose, polyester, tencel – because this will be difficult to handle and not structured enough for a bag.  You’re better off sticking to wool, cotton, or linen for strength and stability.

You can shop locally at:

• Pak Cloth House | Balham High Road
• Simply Fabrics | Atlantic Road, Brixton
• Wimsew | Balham High Road

Location

The sewing classes are held at the Streatham and Brixton Quaker meeting house, Redlands Way, SW2 3LU.  The venue has step-free access and is close to the junction with Christchurch Road.  An interactive map is linked here.

DATES: Tuesday 31st October – Tuesday 5th December

TIME: 17.30 – 20.30

What can I do after the course ends?

More courses will be listed in the New Year – please fill out the contact form below if you’d like to be the first to know when they’re live.

If you’re ready to invest in a sewing machine, I recommend visiting Battersea Sewing Centre.  Having your own machine means you can progress even more quickly and tackle larger or more complex items.  You can also practice between classes and choose your own projects.

Any more questions?  Let me know!

If you have any questions, please get in touch using the contact form below. This will go straight to my inbox and I will pick up your message as soon as I can.  This form also serves as a waitlist between course dates.