Skills Masterclass
SKILLS MASTERCLASS
Want to achieve that polished, professional finish in your sewing projects?
Join our 2 day Sewing Skills Masterclass, where you’ll learn some of the most essential and widely used tailoring techniques that elevate handmade garments to a professional standard.
From a crisp shirt collar to a perfectly executed welt pocket, we’ll guide you through the skills that define high-quality craftsmanship. Learn how to cut, construct, and finish a welt pocket—a classic detail that adds both style and structure. Though often seen as advanced, these techniques become approachable with our clear, step-by-step guidance.
And yes, it’s time to stop avoiding trousers! Master the fly front zipper with confidence. We’ll show you how to break down this intimidating feature into simple, achievable steps for a clean, functional finish.
THE COURSE
In this Skills Masterclass, you’ll gain the confidence and precision needed to:
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Insert a fly front zipper accurately and securely – Preparing fabric with interfacing for stability – Marking placement lines accurately – Installing the zipper and securing it in place – Topstitching for a strong and professional look.
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Prepare, sew, and turn a shirt collar with sharp, professional edges – How to choose and apply interfacing for structure – Tips for turning sharp collar points. – Attaching the collar to the stand without puckers – Topstitching and pressing for a polished result.
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Discover how to cut, construct, and finish a professional welt pocket, one of the hallmarks of quality tailoring – Accurate marking and cutting for perfect placement – Reinforcing with interfacing for strength – Constructing and turning the welts with sharp edges – Attaching the pocket bag neatly and securely.
- Learn the tips and tricks to create a perfect patch pocket. We explore techniques for a standard rectangle, a denim shield and a smooth curved pocket.
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THE VENUE
Sew Different is located within the Dean Clough mill complex in a dedicated sewing studio 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 with lift access.
Dean Clough is a thriving 22-acre mixed-use mill complex, stretching half a mile in length and consisting of 16 Grade II listed Victorian mills. Where it was once a working textile mill, it is now a community encompassing work spaces, art galleries, a theatre, restaurants, bars, shops and a hotel!
Address: Sew Different, Suite E107, E Mill, Dean Clough, Halifax HX3 5AX
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 on the course. However there is a Travel Lodge on site located a 2 minute walk from the studio, a Premier Inn a 10 minute walk away as well as many hotels and Air BnBs in the area. Halifax town centre, bus station and train station are a ten minute walk from the studio. There is parking on site (free evenings and weekends).
WHAT TO EXPECT
This 2 day workshop is designed to take your sewing to the next level. Under expert instruction, you’ll build a workbook filled with notes, techniques, and sewn samples—each completed by you during the course. You’ll leave not only with practical skills but with a valuable reference to use in future projects. Our tutor, Katie, was a military tailor in a past life and brings you all of her tailoring expertise as well as her experience of teaching people of all abilities.
WHAT’S INCLUDED ON THE COURSE:
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- Dedicated studio sewing with expert teaching – maximum of 8 students
- Use of all sewing machines, calico for samples and sewing equipment
- Detailed notes and worksheet for reference
- A delicious lunch everyday of the course
- Teas, coffees and snacks every day in the studio
- A 20% discount on all other Sew Different patterns
- A 10% discount on Sew Different fabrics
Hours: 9.30am – 4.30pm each day
Cost £275 – £100 deposit required to book your place and the full balance required 6 weeks before the course starts. Please note that deposits are non-refundable. Available dates:
Skills Masterclass
£100.00
Private workshops for solo sewists or small groups can be arranged. They can be run to a similar format as our listed workshops but you would have the studio to yourselves. The advantage of this is that we can customise the itinerary to suit you. Please email [email protected] to discuss your requirements.
