What’s it all about?
Want to sew your own clothes from paper patterns, but haven’t a clue what to do with that mysterious wad of tissue paper with lines all over it that’s called a sewing pattern? Then this is the class for you!
What will we cover?
We’ll start from scratch, taking a look at the pattern envelope before unpacking it, going over the information on the instruction sheet and preparing the pattern ready for cutting. Then we’ll learn how to layout the fabric and pattern, before pinning and cutting. Along the way we’ll decoding those mysterious dots, notch and arrow symbols on the pattern pieces and learn how to transfer these symbols to your fabric. Many patterns these days come with multiple sizes printed on the one sheet which makes for an even more confusing maze of lines and symbols, so we’ll do a quick how-to on tracing a single size from a multi-size pattern.
The internet is becoming an increasingly popular place to source and purchase interesting patterns from independent designers. Patterns are often available as PDF downloads which have the advantage of being cheaper and instantly accessible. You’ll be shown how to prepare PDF patterns for cutting and will be given a comprehensive list of links to the best indie pattern designers on the web.
Who will be teaching?
Gaye Naismith is a lifelong sewer (machine and hand), a sometimes seamstress and as Gaye Abandon, a creator of homewares and accessories from upcycled textiles. One of her favourite materials is felted wool and she can often be found in her local Savers riffling through the jumper aisles.