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Sewing - Dressmaking - Beginners

Course code: P02764

Subject area: Homecrafts

Study level: Part Time

Course level:

Course details

Course time:

18:30 - 21:00

Days of week:

Monday

Course date:

22nd Sept 2025 - 8th Dec 2025

Course location:

Abingdon Campus

Contact details

Phone:

01235 555 585

This course is part one of a three-part programme. The course is aimed at complete beginners or those who have very little sewing experience. You will gain confidence in the use of a sewing machine, learn basic sewing techniques, and follow instructions to produce a Tote bag.
College sewing machines are available, but you may bring your own machine.

During the course you will learn:

How to thread your sewing machine.

How to alter the tensions/change the needle/basic maintenance.

How to use the different attachments for different stitches, effects, and finishes.

Produce a range of samples and samplers to illustrate the above

Cover basic sewing techniques to produce a Tote bag.

You will need a basic sewing kit:

Fabric scissors, paper scissor, colour headed dressmaking pins, sewing needles, tape measure, tailors chalk or fabric marking pens, tacking thread.

Folder with 10 plastic sleeves

Plus:

Plain cotton fabric or calico with contrast sewing thread for the samples/sampler (1 metre of fabric)

Fabric and thread for your Tote bag (to be discussed during the course)

Pens/pencils/writing paper

NB. If you are bringing your sewing machine, please ensure it is in full working order and you have the manual and attachments with you.

"Facilities at Abingdon Campus:- Vending machines and Costa Coffee shop (open until 7pm on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday term time only).- Watercoolers available, making it easy to refill your water bottle.- Free parking. Please note due to half term there will be no session on 27/10/2025."

What next?
Improvers Dressmaking, Roman Blind or Creative Cushions and Bags, Alterations and Making the Old Look New.
Entry criteria
Very little or no prior experience
Fee information
Learners will need to bring their own resources.

As part of your course we may organise trips to assist you with your learning. Trips are optional, and you will not be penalised if you choose not to participate.

There are bursaries available to help you with other course costs. Call 01235 216 212 for more information.

The rules on fee reduction are complicated and we would encourage you to talk to our Admissions staff on 01235 216 400 to discuss your options. You can find more information on our Fees and Bursaries page - search "Fees and Bursaries" at the top of the page.

19+ Fee:

£264.00

19+ Reduced Fee:

£132.00

Learning & method assessment
Demonstration/Observation
Practical – samples, sampler, and Tote bag. Self and peer assessment.
Q&A, Discussion, 1:1’s
To track your progress and achievement you will be required to complete a short document.