Where: The fashion studio at Redborne Upper School, Ampthill, Bedfordshire

Length of course: 4 weeks

When: Every other Saturday excluding half terms 10.45am - 12.15pm. 21st October, 4th November, 18th November, 9th December

Do you have a child in years 5/6/7/8 at school who doesn’t have Textiles lessons at school but would like to learn to make things using the sewing machine? Or perhaps they want to develop the machine sewing skills they are learning at school in order to move onto more complex sewing projects? Whatever the situation, this course could be right for them.

All courses are taught in small class sizes of no more than 12. This means that you can receive one to one help when you need it. The small group also creates a relaxed and friendly environment, where learners can get to know one another while learning how to sew.

Over the 4 weeks, your child will make a strip of bunting which will allow them time to practise applying the following skills:

• Using a pattern to accurately cut fabric

• Sewing seams with a neat seam allowance

• Using the overlocker

• Sewing different types of seams for different projects

• Sewing decorative trims and appliques onto fabrics

We will start with the absolute basics of the sewing machine; how to thread it up, and what all those settings and dials mean. They will learn how to sew a variety of basic stitches and be shown how to sew accurately and professionally. Their knowledge of different fabric types will be improved, as we look at what fabrics are made of, what makes them different, what they should use for different projects, and how to change the sewing machine settings for each type. This will lead us on to learning about different types of needles and presser feet, and when, how, and why they would need to change them. 

Before starting their bunting, I will show them how to sew neat and accurate seams on small pieces of fabric, which they can collect in a scrap book along with notes for them to look back on as they keep learning.

All fabrics, tools and machines will be provided, your child is not expected to bring anything unless they wish to. Festive fabrics will be provided so that they can make a Christmas themed bunting if they like!

Completing this course will leave your child knowing how to thread a machine, the names and differences of some fabrics, how to sew some easy seams and hems, and make things like bunting, cushion covers, and simple quilts

Following this course, your child may want to attend another Level 1 beginner sewing course to continue perfecting their skills, or jump straight into Level 2 courses to learn how to make clothes, both of which start in January 2024.

Please note that at this time, we are unable to provide refreshments, as it is held in an educational setting, rather than a cafe. Your child is welcome to bring their own flask and snacks for during the class.

Please ensure you have read the Crafty Birds Terms and Conditions before booking. (Opens in a new window).