What's your 2017 sewing resolutions?

We all know that resolutions are usually about trying to change habits for hard stuff like eating less cake, or doing more exercise, but when it comes to sewing resolutions they are 100% fun!

I think its really exciting setting sewing goals or aims at the start of the year as it gives you something to really look forward too.

So to help set you on the right track and help make your sewing wishes for the year come true, here are some resolutions that might be on your list and the fantastic workshops that will help you achieve them….

1. Complete those unfinished projects

Our monthly open studio sessions are perfect for working on whatever project you want with the help and support of a tutor in our lovely bright, fully equipped studio.

Each session includes a short tutorial on a skill such as zips or dart manipulation, but then the rest of the session is completely open for you to work on whatever you want. Whether its fitting trousers, adjusting a hem or finishing off your seam allowances on our overlockers. Each 3 hour session costs £32 or book 3 or more sessions as once to receive a 10% discount. Follow this link for more information.

2. Start Dressmaking

If you are keen to make a start on your handmade wardrobe this year then our simple top workshop or simple skirt workshop are the best places to start. We have specifically designed them for those who know how to sew simple things but haven’t made an clothes before. Both workshops last 6 hours and include a pattern that you can take home to make the garment again if you wish, and cost £65. Follow this link for booking info.

3. Understand commercial sewing patterns

If you’ve made some garments before but still struggle to work out what all the symbols and terminology mean then our Simple Shift Dress workshop will teach you how to navigate through reading a pattern envelope, mastering cutting layouts and discovering what all those pattern symbols mean. This one day 6 hours workshop includes the pattern for you to take home and make again and again and costs £70. Follow this link for booking info.

4. Improve fitting skills

Getting a great fit is always something that I’m always trying to improve. If you are struggling to get a great fit on your garments then our new one day workshop on Making the Perfect fit dress is great.

During this day you’ll work on your chosen dress pattern and with a focus on the bodice section you’ll make a toile, carry out adjustments on it and then transfer these to the paper pattern so you can then confidently make the dress at home knowing it will fit. This 6 hour class costs £70. Follow this link for booking info.

5. Learn how to patchwork

Patchwork is strangely addictive once you get started and is a great skill to have if you like making home interiors. If you are completely new then our beginners Simple Patchwork workshop is the best place to start. It lasts 3 hours and costs £32.

6. Try something new

If you fancy trying something totally new this year then our ceramic decoration workshop is a nice choice! Due to its popularity at Christmas time we have introduced a summer session where you can make cute buttons, hanging decorations, name bunting (like my one for Sophia above) pieces that can be turned into brooches, earrings or necklaces afterwards or you could get ahead for next Christmas already!

This 2 hour session with artist and designer Ruby Anne includes all materials and firing costs, and costs £39. Follow this link for booking info.