What will I learn?
Are you a dressmaker who is fed up with making garments that do not fit properly? This course can start to change that by guiding you through making a bespoke, made-to-measure, and lined straight or A-line skirt. From taking your own measurements, then making your own pattern through to the finished garment. Using this pattern, you will be shown how to alter and adapt it to fit with personal fitting and design preferences. The original pattern can then be used as a basis for numerous other styles, and you will gain expertise in how to make small changes to produce a variety of skirts. A successfully fitted pattern can also be of use in adapting commercial patterns to suit your specific body requirements. Learn the correct way to take a range of body measurements to ensure accuracy. Create a basic block/pattern for either a straight or A-line skirt. Make a fitted and adjusted lined skirt in a fabric of your choice. Understand how to create other styles using your personal block/pattern.

What will I need to take part?
You need to bring a sewing machine and your own dressmaking equipment. As dressmaking patterns are being made, pattern paper will be required but the tutor will guide you through what you need. All the pattern making equipment will be provided but please bring a pen, pencil and notebook with.

What to expect
This is a face-to-face course, taught with demonstrations, 1:1 teaching, handouts, practical work, and product samples. Tutors use Google Classroom to help make course resources available both during and between sessions. Please take advantage of joining your Classroom when invited to do so. For IT help please visit https://learners.northantsadultlearning.ac.uk/it-tips

Where can it lead to?
Following your course, you can use your own successfully fitted pattern to adapt many commercial patterns to suit your specific body requirements. YouTube has many dressmaking channels for any level, such as Made to Sew, Evelyn Wood or Annika Victoria. Look forward to the satisfaction and potential savings you can make from using and developing your dress making skills!

Course eligibility and fees
This course is for adult residents of Northamptonshire aged 19+. Fees are payable on enrolment as published on the booking page. If you are in receipt of certain benefits, in employment and earning a low salary or aged 66 or over, you could be eligible for reduced fees. If you are not sure what support you are entitled to, please phone our office between 10-4 on weekdays 0300 303 1058 or email adultlearning@northnorthants.gov.uk.