You Will Learn:

• What type of needle and stitch to use for sewing with stretch fabric on a regular sewing machine
• Tips for cutting out your fabric
• How to stabilise shoulder seams
• How to insert a sleeve on the flat
• How to sew on a stretch neckband
• How to work with ribbing (if you choose to use ribbing)
• We will also discuss the pros & cons of an overlocker!

The skills you learn in this workshop will allow you to tackle most jumper/sweatshirt and t-shirt patterns! Sewing with stretch really opens up so many dressmaking possibilities.

We will be sewing the entire sweatshirt with a regular sewing machine. If you own an overlocker and would like to learn how to make a sweatshirt or t-shirt with it then please book the Overlocker Workshop: Christmas Jumper class.

SAVE THE CHILDREN CHRISTMAS JUMPER DAY

In this hands-on sweatshirt workshop, £10 of every booking will be donated to the Save The Children Christmas Jumper Day appeal. With the big day on December 12th, your sweatshirt will be ready just in time to wear with pride, knowing you’ve made a contribution to a fantastic cause. Sew your own cozy creation and help make a difference this holiday season!

YouR PROJECT:

We will be using the very popular Billie Sweatshirt pattern by Tilly & The Buttons.

There are several design options included in this pattern, but for this workshop we will be using Version 1 (see the image carousel to see the line drawings). Version 1 is a classic sweatshirt with a relaxed fit, straight sleeves and cuffs. It has endless opportunities for adding your own creative flair – such as using contrasting cuffing. Or keep it simple and classic and use your sweatshirting fabric for your cuffs, waistband and neckband (you will need to ensure you select fabric with enough stretch if you would like to do this).

The Billie pattern is drafted for sizes UK6 – UK34 (bust 30in – 60in). Please contact me before booking if you fall outside this size range.

A copy of the Billie sewing pattern for you to keep is included in the workshop cost.

You will also have the option to add a fun festive vinyl decal to your sweatshirt. See the selection of designs in the image carousel above (or if you are particularly arty and tech-savvy you are welcome to send me an SVG file of your own design to use). You will be sent further information about making your decal choice once you book onto the workshop.

You are also welcome to keep your jumper decal-free. Perhaps you have found a fabulous fabric that you want to take centre stage instead!

WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• a copy of the printed Billie sewing pattern (not PDF)*
• use of class sewing machines (or feel free to bring your own) and all tools and equipment (including the correct sewing machine needles – even if you bring your own machine)
• stabiliser for shoulder seams (if needed)
• Tea, coffee, mince pies and Christmas tunes!
• Iron-on vinyl design of your choice (from the selection)

*Already own the Billie Jumper? Not to worry. You can have the option of either picking up a different sewing pattern from the extensive selection in the studio to add to your collection OR contact me and I will send you a code to take £10 off the price of the workshop! Don’t forget to bring your copy of the Billie to the workshop!!

YOU WILL NEED TO BRING:

• 1.5 – 2.6m of sweatshirt weight fabric (more information & guidance on choosing your fabric will be emailed to you when you book)
• Cuffing, if you choose to use it
• Matching thread
• If you are bringing your own sewing machine then please also bring your manual & don’t forget your leads, machine feet, bobbins etc!

SKILL LEVEL:

Level 2 or 3

You will need to know how to use a regular sewing machine for this class and to have done some previous dressmaking. If you have completed my Beginners Dressmaking Course you will definitely have the skills needed to take this workshop!