6-Part Private Sewing Class: Create Your First Garment

This 6-part private sewing workshop (2 hours per session) is designed for beginners who want to confidently create their first garment from start to finish. Flexible schedule to suit both the student and instructor.

Over the course of the workshop, students will learn how to use and maintain their sewing machine, understand sewing patterns, select appropriate fabrics and notions, and construct a simple garment. With hands-on guidance at every stage—from choosing a pattern to sewing the final seams—students will build both practical skills and confidence.

By the end of the workshop, participants will be comfortable operating their sewing machine, reading and interpreting patterns, selecting fabrics, and sewing a complete garment using essential techniques such as seam allowances, pressing, and finishing methods.

Lesson Plan

Session 1: Sewing Machine Basics
Students bring their own sewing machine and learn how to use it with confidence. Topics include threading the machine, winding a bobbin, basic troubleshooting, cleaning and maintenance, and practicing straight and zigzag stitches on sample fabric. Don't own a sewing machine? That's OK. We have a sewing machine that you can use.

Session 2: Understanding Sewing Patterns
An introduction to sewing patterns, including commercial vs. indie options and printed vs. PDF formats. Students learn how to read pattern envelopes and instructions, understand sizing and measurements, and identify required fabrics and notions. A pattern for the final garment will be selected.

Session 3: Fabric Store Visit
A guided trip to a fabric store where students learn how to choose appropriate fabric and notions for their selected pattern. Topics include fabric types, weight, drape, fiber content, and how to shop with confidence.

Session 4: Pattern Preparation and Cutting
Students become familiar with their chosen pattern instructions. They will learn how to lay out pattern pieces, understand grainlines and markings, and accurately cut fabric pieces.

Session 5: Garment Construction (Part 1)
Begin sewing the garment, focusing on foundational construction techniques such as seam allowances, stitching methods, and assembling major sections of the garment.

Session 6: Garment Construction (Part 2) & Finishing
Complete the garment and learn finishing techniques such as pressing, hemming, and attaching notions (e.g., buttons, elastic, or zippers depending on the project). Final adjustments and troubleshooting are covered.