Learn to Sew- An Introduction to Sewing Machine Skills

Level X

Cheltenham

Course Overview

Part Time
Certificate

Participation in our evening classes provides far more than the opportunity to learn new skills but also numerous benefits to our mental health and wellbeing. Leisure classes are known to lower stress levels, improve confidence, increase social integration, contribute to personal growth and lifelong learning to name just a few advantages.

This course is aimed at complete beginners and those who have sewn a long time ago!

Maybe you have been inspired by the Great British Sewing Bee, fancy trying sewing, or did a little at school and want to get to grips with it. This course will introduce you to the basics of using a sewing machine. From how the thread the needle, through setting the tension, sewing inspiration to working with a simple pattern, this course will build your confidence to work on the sewing machine.

During the course you will make a variety of simple bags, including a zippered pouch to practice your skills. You will then make some attractive decorative placemats before trying out using a simple commercial pattern.

Each week you will need to bring a basic sewing kit.
This will need to include
· Sharp scissors for fabric
· Small pair of scissors for paper
· Pins and pin cushion
· Hand sewing needles
· Sewing cotton
· Tape measure
· Some fabric such as a couple of fat quarters/pillow case size pieces.

Each week you will be advised of what materials you will need for the following session.

Our recreational classes are aimed at those aged 19 or over (as at 31st August of the academic year).

This course is for complete beginners or if you haven't used a sewing machine for a long time and need support with the basics.
Your tutor will be able to advise of any further training opportunities.

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The UK fashion industry is one of the most vibrant and creative business sectors in the country. Fashion has visually defined the various periods in our history across centuries.

Whether you want to design and construct garments, learn how to style and promote fashion or create a range of accessories, Fashion and Textiles can help you develop your skills.

Launched in 2012, Fashion and Textiles at Gloucestershire College has gone from strength to strength, with light and spacious, dedicated workshops; a full enrichment programme and industry-experienced lecturers and guest speakers – it’s an exciting place to study!

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Student Stories

I have always wanted to work in fashion and GC was a great place to learn because we got to work in a real studio environment and get work experience as dressers at events in London. Apart from the course itself, the studio space, photography studios and various software available helped me further my education in fashion. Having all of these components at my disposal meant I was always learning new skills, which were beneficial for my higher education."

Alex Tuffley

Diploma Level 3 – Fashion Design Extended – Cheltenham Campus

I tried university and it simply wasn’t for me. I much prefer the atmosphere at College, because the classes are smaller I have a much closer relationship with the lecturers. They know where my skillset lies and what exactly I need to work on. They can offer me support where I need it. The facilities within the fashion department were second to none. I feel prepared for the real world of work and hope that I can be a stylist/designer one day.”

Olivia Simpson

HNC/HND - Fashion and Textiles – Cheltenham

I started studying my A Levels but didn’t enjoy it, so decided to study fashion at GC instead. I feel much more motivated on this course as it’s something I really enjoy and I get a lot of direction from lecturers. On the course we are given a brief but have lots of freedom to do our own thing, and I really enjoy elements such as trend forecasting and marketing. I would say as long as you’re applying to something you really want to do; you’ll get what you need from studying at GC."

Crystal Francis

Extended Diploma Level 3 – Fashion

Cheltenham Campus

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