The aim of this class is to teach you a number of different garment altering techniques. These can be to change the fit or length of existing garments you own. The techniques that you learn will depend on the garments you bring along with you, but you will get a booklet to take home that covers several different alterations. Most alterations will be done on the machine so you will need to bring a working sewing machine with you. We should have time for around 3-4 different alterations each. You can also bring things along that you want to customize.

Please note – this is not a mending class, I wont be covering mending at all in this session.

COURSE OUTLINE

We will have time for around 3-4 of these alterations:

• Lengthen or shorten the hem on a pair of trousers or skirt

• Make the waist smaller or bigger on a pair of trousers or skirt, through the darts

• Altering a waistband to fit better

• Narrowing a trouser leg, skirts or dresses

• Letting out a trouser leg, skirt or dress – this will depend on how much seam allowance you have inside the garment.

• Lengthen or shorten a sleeve

• Shaping the body of a dress, top or shirt (to ensure it fits well at the waist and hips)

• Shortening a top or shirt

• Altering a neckline

• Inserting elastic into a waist or into a sleeve hem

• Garment customizing

PLEASE NOTE: The amount we can let out a garment relies entirely on how much seam allowance there is inside the garment. If there is not a lot, it wont be safe to let the garment out as the seams may split, so we would need to patch in a piece.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?

• We will provide all the sewing tools and threads you will need, however if there’s something that is a specific colour that you want to match exactly, you may need to bring your own matching thread.

• Course booklet to take home.

• Tea and coffee!

WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING?

• A sewing machine in good working order

• Matching threads for your garments if we don’t have the right match

Clothes that need altering! Bring around 6-8 garments with various different areas that need altering. Below are examples of the type of thing you could bring:

• Garments that are too long or too short

• Garments that don’t fit on the waist

• Garments who’s shape doesn’t follow your body’s shape

• Garments that are too loose and you’d like to re-shape them.

If you are unsure if a garment is suitable, just bring it along and we’ll see what we can do!

Please make sure the garments you bring are clean.

WHO IS THIS CLASS SUITABLE FOR?

This class is a beginner plus level. You should be comfortable with using a sewing machine and sew following the seam allowance. You’ve probably tackled a few sewing projects at home.

ABOUT YOUR TEACHER

Helen Shine is a pattern cutter and seamstress who has worked in the fashion industry in London for 10 years. She has cut patterns for several high-end designer brands, including Victoria Beckham, Mary Katrantzou and Karen Millen. She loves sharing the knowledge she has gained over the years with others, to help them on their sewing journey.

WORKSHOP LOCATION

This workshop is held at CAST in Helston.

CAST is a visual arts organisation, based in Helston, Cornwall. Their ambitious programme includes exhibitions of artists’ film, talks, screening events and workshops, as well as learning programmes for schools and creative activities for children, families and young people. CAST also provides studios for artists, an open-access ceramics studio and an excellent Café.

Address:

CAST (Cornubian Arts & Science Trust)
3 Penrose Road
Helston
Cornwall
TR13 8TP

Parking:

The rear entrance to the building can be reached by steps from Wendron Street car park. Click here for Google Maps link.

It costs £4.60 for 12 hours.

PLEASE NOTE: You must put in your car registration number accurately to avoid a fine. Make sure you pay for enough time to cover the workshop to avoid a fine.

Bus:

The U4 runs hourly between Falmouth and Helston.

The 34 runs hourly between Redruth and Helston.

The U4 runs hourly between Penzance and Helston.

CAST is a 5 minute walk from the Seven Stars bus stop, on Coinagehall Street.

CAST Cafe:

When I was looking for a new venue for my workshops, I purposefully chose somewhere with a great onsite cafe! CAST Café is open Wednesday – Saturday | 10am – 4pm

TESTIMONIALS

CANCELLATIONS

Please click here to view our cancellations policy before booking any classes with us.