Program Overview

This 9-lesson intensive course is designed to equip you with foundational sewing skills, from understanding your sewing machine to creating a basic dress. Each lesson will include a combination of demonstrations, guided practice, and assignments to reinforce learning. By the end of the course, you will confidently create a finished dress from start to finish.

Duration: 9 Lessons (3 hours per lesson)

Class Dates and Times:

1. Tuesday, February 18, 2025 (Week 1) - 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM

2. Friday, February 21, 2025 (Week 1) - 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM

3. Tuesday, February 25, 2025 (Week 2) - 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM

4. Friday, February 28, 2025 (Week 2) - 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM

5. Tuesday, March 4, 2025 (Week 3) - 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM

6. Friday, March 7, 2025 (Week 3) - 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM

7. Tuesday, March 11, 2025 (Week 4) - 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM

8. Friday, March 14, 2025 (Week 4) - 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM

9. Tuesday, March 18, 2025 (Week 5) - 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Tuition: $65 per 3-hour session ($585 total for the program)

Lesson Plan

Lesson 1: Introduction to Sewing & Your Sewing Machine

• Parts of the sewing machine and their functions

• Setting up and threading the machine

• Basic maintenance and troubleshooting

• Practicing straight stitches and backstitches

• Homework: Practice threading the machine and sewing straight lines on scrap fabric

Lesson 2: Essential Sewing Tools and Techniques

• Overview of sewing tools and their uses

• Fabric types, grainlines, and cutting basics

• Understanding seam allowances

• Practicing different stitch types (zigzag, basting, etc.)

• Homework: Prepare and cut fabric pieces using templates provided

Lesson 3: Fabric Preparation and Pattern Reading

• Prepping fabric (washing, ironing, etc.)

• Reading and understanding basic sewing patterns

• Pinning and marking fabric

• Practicing sewing on curves and corners

• Homework: Practice pinning and sewing curves on sample fabric

Lesson 4: Mastering Seams and Hems

• Sewing and finishing seams (French seams, serging alternatives)

• Creating clean and professional hems

• Troubleshooting common sewing issues

• Homework: Prepare fabric pieces with finished seams and hems

Lesson 5: Zippers, Buttons, and Closures

• Installing zippers (invisible and regular)

• Making buttonholes and sewing buttons

• Adding hooks and eyes

• Homework: Practice installing a zipper and sewing a buttonhole

Lesson 6: Creating a Simple Skirt

• Using a pattern to construct a basic skirt

• Measuring and fitting adjustments

• Adding an elastic waistband

• Homework: Complete the skirt with finishing touches

Lesson 7: Introduction to Dress Construction

• Reviewing dress patterns and design options

• Cutting and prepping fabric for your dress

• Sewing bodice darts and assembling top pieces

• Homework: Prep fabric pieces for the dress bodice

Lesson 8: Dress Assembly and Fitting

• Assembling the skirt and bodice

• Joining pieces together with proper seam techniques

• Fitting and making necessary alterations

• Homework: Complete initial assembly and prepare for final touches

Lesson 9: Final Dress Completion

• Adding finishing details (zippers, hems, and embellishments)

• Pressing and presenting the final garment

• Review and Q&A

Homework Expectations

Students will be assigned practical tasks to reinforce the lessons covered. Homework is essential for practice and to ensure readiness for the next session. Assignments may include preparing fabric pieces, practicing stitches, or completing portions of the project at home.

Materials Needed

Provided by Instructor:

• Sewing patterns for practice projects

• Sample fabrics for initial lessons

Provided by Student:

• Sewing machine (in good working condition)

• Basic sewing kit (scissors, thread, pins, measuring tape, etc.)

• Fabric for final dress project (details provided in Lesson 6)

Program Goals

By the end of the Sewing Basics Intensive, you will:

1. Understand how to operate and maintain a sewing machine.

2. Master basic sewing techniques, including seams, hems, and closures.

3. Create a completed dress from pattern to finished product.

Payment Terms

• Full payment of $585 is due by February 4, 2025.

• Payments are non-refundable for missed sessions; make-up classes can be arranged upon request.

• Class size is limited to 6 students.