Advanced Sewing and Pattern Making
Develop your sewing skills and bring your own clothing designs to life.
Have you completed a beginner sewing course or already have some sewing experience? Take your skills to the next level with our Advanced Sewing and Pattern Making course at Suffolk New College.
This practical, 10-week course is designed for learners who want to develop their dressmaking techniques, learn professional pattern-making skills and gain the confidence to create original garments.
You will learn how to draft patterns using your own measurements, adapt designs, create and fit toiles, and achieve professional finishes. You will also explore how to develop your own garment designs from an initial sketch through to a finished piece.
What will you learn?
- Draft your own bodice, skirt, sleeve and trouser blocks.
- Learn dart manipulation and pattern shaping to create different styles.
- Make toiles and develop your fitting and alteration skills.
- Master techniques including inserting sleeves, fitting waistbands, adding collars and finishing necklines.
- Learn how to grade patterns between different sizes.
- Develop an original garment design and create your own pattern portfolio.
Who is this course for?
This course is ideal for anyone who has completed a beginner sewing course or has equivalent sewing experience. You should be confident using a sewing machine independently and able to sew a straight seam.
What will I make?
Throughout the course, you will create pattern blocks, toile samples and garment projects, working towards an original or adapted garment and a portfolio showcasing your skills and development.
What do I need to bring?
You will need basic pattern-making tools, including pattern paper, a ruler, a curved ruler and pencils. Fabric requirements for your final garment will be discussed during the first session. Sewing machines are available at the College.
