Are you a keen sewist looking to widen your skills? Would you like to know how to tweak a pattern for that perfect fit. Our three day course introduces you to the basic concepts of patting fitting using a simple shift dress as the starting block. You will learn how to take measurements correctly and then use them to adapt the pattern to suit your shape, and add extra elements to suit your personal style.
THE COURSE
Our Pattern Cutting Retreat is suitable for those who already have some sewing experience. You don’t need to be an expert, but you will need to be familiar with techniques involved in making a basic shift dress.
Under the supervision of Katie, an experienced cutter (and tailor in a past life), you will make a paper pattern that fits your body shape, learn how to make adjustments, construct a toile and then cut the dress in your final fabric.
All machines, equipment, pattern cutting paper and calico are included in the retreat cost. Bring along your own choice of fabric to make your final dress. You will be able to make the dress to suit your own style by adjusting the length, the sleeves, the neckline and adjusting the ease to personal taste.
You will go home with a dress pattern that has been customised to fit your own body shape and the knowledge of how to adjust other patterns in the same way. You will have a working toile in calico for future reference and, if you are a fast worker, you will also have a finished dress in your own choice of fabric.
OUR MACHINES
Our sewing retreat is sponsored by Bernina. We use one of their high quality entry level models – the Bernette b35. More information about these machines can be found here and supplier details can be found here.
THE VENUE
Our studio is located in a newly refurbished building with lots of natural light. All equipment is provided, although you are welcome to bring your own sewing machine if you prefer. We are located on the first floor and have disabled access via a lift. Address: Lawrence House, Riverside Drive, Cleckheaton, West Yorkshire BD19 4DH
THE AREA
Yorkshire is famous for its rolling green countryside and hosts some fantastic places to visit, including the Yorkshire Sculpture Park, Cannon Hall, Leeds city centre with its Victorian shopping arcades and the famous Titanic Spa. There are also great walking and cycling routes for anyone who is thinking of bringing along a non-sewing partner!
ACCOMMODATION
Accommodation is not included in the retreat. However there is a Premier Inn a 2 minute drive away from the venue as well as several hotels including the family run Healds Hall which is 2 miles away.
ITINERARY
Friday
9.30am – Welcome and learning to take measurements. Introduction to the Flexi Shift Dress • Lunch • Adapt the paper pattern to your own personal shape and style. Studio closes at 5pm
Saturday
9.30am – Cut your new pattern in calico, add fusing, and start your toile. • Lunch • Construction of toile. Studio closes at 5pm
Sunday
9.30am – Make adjustments to you toile and paper pattern. Start cutting the fabric for your final dress. • Lunch • Construction of finished dress. Please note that not everyone will be able to complete their final dress in the afternoon, but everyone will go home with finished pattern in order to be able to finish at home. Studio closes at 4pm.
WHAT’S INCLUDED ON THE COURSE:
- Dedicated studio sewing with expert teaching – maximum of 8 students
- Use of all sewing machines and pattern cutting equipment
- Sew Different paper of the Flexi Shift Dress
- All calico and pattern cutting paper
- A delicious lunch everyday of the retreat
- Teas, coffees and snacks every day in the studio
- A 30% discount on all other Sew Different patterns
- A 10% discount on Sew Different fabrics
Cost £350 – £100 deposit required to book your place and the full balance required 6 weeks before the retreat starts. Please note that deposits are non-refundable. Available dates:
3rd-5th November 2023 – 1 place left
2nd – 4th February 2024 – places available
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