Workshops
PRIVATE SEWING LESSONS with The Avid Seamstress (2 Hours)
$70.53
Every so often we all get stuck with our current sewing project. Regardless of how long you have been sewing or even if you can’t use a sewing machine at all, sometimes we all would appreciate that expert in the room to show us what to do.
Our 1-2-1 Workshops are designed to cater to what you need.
Your two-hour session will help you get to grips with what’s troubling you, support you in making amazing progress with your project, or the beginning of your journey in learning how to sew AND leave you with the confidence to continue on your own.
Once you have booked your session we will plan and tailor the time together to focus on the areas that you would like to develop.
Recent 1-2-1 workshops have included:
- Learning to use a sewing machine
- Learning how to use an overlocking machine
- Reading and understanding a sewing pattern of your choice
- Tackling a particular part of a pattern/sewing project such as sleeves or zips
- Learning how to create beautiful buttonholes
- Making one of our Avid Seamstress patterns under our expert guidance
Day, evening and weekend times are available.
Adult and children’s lessons available.
Once your workshop is booked we will get in touch to confirm the date and time or this can be pre-agreed before booking.
TEACHER
Our founder, Lisa Falconer, has been an avid sewist since childhood. She loves to spend time in her studio developing sewing patterns and teaching the incredible art of sewing.
Lisa’s mantra is “enjoy the whole journey; she will teach you how to enjoy each stage of creating a garment, from preparing the fabric, pinning and cutting to finally sewing. Each of these are integral parts of the process, and she loves to inspire an appreciation for each of these stages. She’ll teach you essential skills, tips and tricks, and you’ll have a great time along the way.
Venue:
The Avid Seamstress. First Floor, High Lea Business Centre, Witchampton Lane, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 5AA. For more info on our venue click here
Policies
By booking a workshop you are agreeing to our Workshop Policy, Covid Policy and T&Cs
If you have any questions please email hello@theavidseamstress.co.uk
SEWING WEEKEND (all levels) - Weekend Workshop - 2024 - Various Dates Available
$237.23
Join us for a fun weekend sewing with The Avid Seamstress. Only 4 spaces available.
Choose one of our sewing patterns and come and make it under our expert guidance. This workshop covers all levels of sewing - we have students making their first garment to seasoned sewists making coats and blazers. Lisa, our founder will support you at every step so you'll enjoy the journey of making your garment, learning many techniques and having a really good time too!
You can make the following sewing patterns:
Beginner (perfect for those that know how to use a sewing machine but want to make their first garment)
✂ The Pyjama Bottoms (these are great day/evening trousers too)
✂ The Sheath Dress
✂ The Wimborne Coat (this is such a super coat for beginners and those more advanced too)
Confident Beginner - Intermediate (perfect for those that have made a few garments and are ready to try something new (buttonholes/concealed zips).
✂✂ The Blouse
✂✂ The Jumpset
✂✂ The Raglan Dress or Top
✂✂ The Gathered Dress
✂✂ The Culottes
✂✂ The Day Dress
✂✂ The City Trousers
✂✂ The Sun Dress
✂✂ The A-Line Dress
Strong Intermediate (perfect for those that are confident following a sewing pattern and just need support at the tricky parts)
✂✂✂ The Everyday Shirt
✂✂✂ The Coat
✂✂✂ The Blazer
If you would like to chat through your experience and which sewing pattern would be suitable please contact us at hello@theavidseamstress.co.uk
Click here to view our sewing patterns which will provide more info on each one.
You'll receive your own printed sewing pattern in advance and, in some cases, be able to try on the sample before the workshop.
We are pleased to offer a payment plan for workshops priced more than £65. Please see here for the details and how to book this workshop with a payment plan.
Class size
The class size for this workshop will be a maximum of 4. Each person will have their own space to work from.
Please note that we need a minimum of 2 for this workshop to go ahead.
Workshop timings
This workshop will take place over two days so that you can really take your time and create a beautiful garment. Both days will start at 10am and finish at 530pm.
We’ll have a break for lunch and a lovely selection of cakes will be offered in the afternoon.
Should you be travelling far and need suggestions for local hotels, please contact us for suggestions.
What you need to bring:
Beginner - we'd like you to bring your fabric washed with your pattern sheet cut out. We'll do the fabric cutting and overlocking at the workshop.
Intermediate/advanced - If you want more time to focus on the sewing, you'll bring your fabric cut out and overlocked. This will give you ample time to focus on putting the garment together. However, if you would prefer to do the cutting, overlocking and preparation with us, we are very happy with this. You may not complete your garment in the weekend.
We can help you with fabric choice and fitting before the workshop. We will help you with fitting and any pre-workshop support needed.
- Matching thread
- Your own set of pins
- Pencil and rubber
- Fabric chalk
Sewing machines:
Various sewing machines will be provided, however, we promote people bringing their own sewing machines. If you are bringing your own sewing machine, please email hello@theavidseamstress.co.uk after booking so that we can confirm your machine is suitable. If you bring your own machine, please bring an empty bobbin for the machine and all the parts that came with the machine. Don’t forget the foot pedal and cords.
Venue:
The Avid Seamstress. First Floor, High Lea Business Centre, Witchampton Lane, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 5AA. For more info on our venue click here
Policies
By booking a workshop you are agreeing to our Workshop Policy, Covid Policy and T&Cs
If you have any questions please email hello@theavidseamstress.co.uk
LEARN TO USE (AND LOVE) YOUR OVERLOCKER - 2024 - Various Dates Available
$109.00
If you are looking for a workshop that will teach you the ins and outs of your overlocker, you are in the right place. Spend the day at our gorgeous studio with Amanda from Cotton Onto Sewing demystifying these incredible machines.
Amanda has created an incredible workshop and with her wealth of experience, seamstresses all over the country are falling in love with their overlockers and feeling super confident threading and understanding how they work.
All you need is your overlocker (and lunch), even if it's still in the box and untouched. We'll provide everything else you need on the day and you will leave with a folder full of samples and knowledge.
What we'll cover in the day:
Morning Session
- Introduction
- Amanda's overlocker samples and how an overlocker works
- Threads, needles and knives
- Looking at the overlocker
- Changing a thread colour
- 4-Thread
- 3-Thread
- Stitch finger
- Rolled hem
- Width adjuster
- Turning corners
- Circular sewing
- Tieing off ends
- Unpicking an overlocked stitch
Lunch and then Afternoon Session
- Sewing with stretch
- Guides on your machine
- Differential feed
- Decorative hemming
- Flat locking
- Pressure dial
- Cleaning your machine
- Changing back to your thread
- Presser feet
WOW, yes we fit this all into one day. Amanda has rave reviews for her workshops and we are super excited to host these overlocker workshops with Amanda.
Overlocker machines:
We have one machine that can be borrowed at a first come first served basis. If you do not have an overlocker, please email us at hello@theavidseamstress.co.uk to see if our one is available. Otherwise, please let us know the make and model of your machine once booked.
Skills needed: This class is designed for absolute beginners or those that need a refresher.
Teacher: Amanda - Cotton Onto Sewing
Amanda is on a quest to become the Queen of Overlocking and, with the incredible reviews we have heard about her workshops, we believe she already owns the title. Amanda spent 13 years working at a clothing alteration shop and learned incredible sewing skills. She then branched out to become self-employed and launched Cotton Onto Sewing. Amanda has an incredible energy and passion.
Timings:
10am - 430pm
Tea, coffee & water plus biscuits/fruit will be provided. Please bring lunch as there are no shops nearby to purchase lunch. You are welcome to keep your food in our fridge and use our microwave.
Venue:
The Avid Seamstress. First Floor, High Lea Business Centre, Witchampton Lane, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 5AA. For more info on our venue click here
Policies
By booking a workshop you are agreeing to our Workshop Policy, Covid Policy and T&Cs
If you have any questions please send us an email at hello@theavidseamstress.co.uk or use our handy contact form here
Trouser Fitting Masterclass - 2024 - VARIOUS DATES AVAILABLE (One Day)
$320.58
Got the technical skills pinned down, but perfecting that fit causing you issues? This trouser masterclass is dedicated to perfecting your fitting technique, giving you the skills to apply to all your trouser projects hereon. Taught by our Avid Seamstress pattern cutter, Tamara, this course will give you the skills to adapt your trouser patterns to fit YOU. Only 4 spaces available.
Common trouser fitting issues:
- Lengthening/shortening crotch
- Lengthening/shortening rise
- Full tummy adjustment
- Swayback
- Full/flat seat adjustment
- Waistband adjustments
- Calf / thigh adjustment
- Leg adjustments
Each person will receive a printed trouser fitting guide to keep.
We'll use The City Trousers as our base as we already have the garment made up in all the sizes UK6-22 so you can try on the different sizes.
You'll learn how to:
✂ Take accurate measurements
✂ Make a muslin/toile
✂ Evaluate Fit
✂ Learn about fitting adjustments
You’ll make a muslin/toile and then Tamara will work with you to look at the fitting adjustments you need. We are keeping the numbers to 4 for these workshops so that you receive 1:1 time with Tamara and Lisa to obtain the perfect fit.
Please note that this is a fitting workshop and you will only be making the garment out of toile fabric. The focus for this weekend is fit. You’ll take home a pattern that has been adjusted to fit you perfectly.
If you wish to sew the trousers with you us you can join a Sewing Weekend and we'll provide you with a 15% discount voucher to redeem against the Sewing Weekend cost.
We are pleased to offer a payment plan for this workshop. Please contact hello@theavidseamstress.co.uk if you would like to set up a payment plan.
Class size
The class size for this workshop will be a maximum of 4. Each person will have their own space to work from.
About your teacher - Tamara Green
Coming from a fashion family its was inevitable that Tamara would follow in their footsteps. Growing up in the 80’s, Tamara would accompany her father to delivery his patterns to all the factories in the East End of London, igniting her love for pattern cutting.
Having worked in the industry for over 20 years and for both high street and designer brands, Tamara's excellent pattern cutting has formed the foundation for The Avid Seamstress sewing patterns that you have love.
Working with our founder, Lisa, turning her designs into patterns, Tamara's passion for clothes and fit is evident in our great fitting garments.
Workshop timings
This workshop will start at 10am and finish at 530/6pm.
We’ll have a break for lunch and a lovely selection of cakes will be offered in the afternoon.
Should you be travelling far and need suggestions for local hotels, please contact us for suggestions. We suggest that hotels are held on a fully refundable basis through Booking.com This avoids any disappointment if the workshop is cancelled out of our control.
What you need to bring:
- Sewing machine (or borrow one of ours)
- Haberdashery - sewing pins, fabric marker or chalk, unpicker, 250m reel of thread
Sewing machines:
Various sewing machines will be provided, however, we promote people bringing their own sewing machines. If you are bringing your own sewing machine, please email hello@theavidseamstress.co.uk after booking so that we can confirm your machine is suitable. If you bring your own machine, please bring an empty bobbin for the machine and all the parts that came with the machine. Don’t forget the foot pedal and cords.
Venue:
The Avid Seamstress. First Floor, High Lea Business Centre, Witchampton Lane, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 5AA. For more info on our venue click here
Policies
By booking a workshop you are agreeing to our Workshop Policy, Covid Policy and T&Cs
If you have any questions please email hello@theavidseamstress.co.uk
Macrame Weave Workshop - Saturday 9 March 2024 (10am - 4pm)
$76.94
Learn to create your very own handmade macrame weave wall hanging.
Discover the art of macrame and learn how to create stunning woven designs using various knotting and weaving techniques. Whether you're a beginner or have some experience, this hands-on workshop is perfect for anyone looking to explore their creative side.
During this indulgent workshop, your experienced instructor, Jackie, from Bonnie Lass Create, will guide you through the process of creating your own unique macrame wall hanging. You'll have the opportunity to experiment with different patterns, textures, and colours, allowing you to express your personal style. The friendly, accessible and supportive space ensures that you'll have a fun and enjoyable experience.
Morning session:
- Introduction
- Be inspired by Jackie's collection of samples
- Discover and learn a range of macrame knots
- Design and start creating your own wall hanging from a wide choice of yarns
- You'll be supported and guided with Jackie's expert knowledge and passion for macrame
Lunch and Afternoon session:
- Learn about texture and using weaving techniques to complete and personalise your macrame wall hanging.
- Take your skills to the next level with Jackie's inside knowledge and top tips to master this beautiful craft
- Time to reflect and ask questions so that you leave with a sense of achievement, a new skill and of course a stunning handmade macrame weave wall hanging as a reminder of your experience.
- Opportunity to shop for supplies so that you can continue learning your new skill at home.
So, grab a friend or come solo and immerse yourself in the world of macrame with Bonnie Lass Create. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to learn a new skill and create beautiful woven masterpieces. Reserve your spot today!
Skills needed: This workshop is suitable for complete beginners and also those with some experience looking to develop skills.
Teacher: Jackie - Bonnie Lass Create
Jackie is a passionate macrame artist and lover of all things handmade; she is on a mission to share her experience and knowledge of macrame. You'll be in safe hands as Jackie gently encourages you to explore your creativity and be inspired with colours and texture to create something truly unique.
Timings:
Saturday 9 March 2024
10am - 4pm
Tea, coffee and water plus biscuits, cake and fruit will be provided. Please bring a packed lunch, you are welcome to use the fridge onsite to keep it chilled. You are welcome to use the microwave.
Venue:
The Avid Seamstress. High Lea Business Centre, Witchampton Lane, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 5AA. For more info on our venue click here
Free parking. Ground Floor.
Policies
By booking a workshop you are agreeing to our Workshop Policy, Covid Policy and T&Cs
If you have any questions please email hello@theavidseamstress.co.uk
VIRTUAL LESSON (price per hour)
$38.47
Every so often we all get stuck with our sewing project and would love to have someone to talk it through.
Our virtual private lessons are designed to cater to what you need. We'll connect via Zoom or WhatsApp Video to help you get to grips with your project.
Examples of what can be covered:
- Learning to use a sewing machine
- Reading and understanding a sewing pattern
- Tackling a particular part of a pattern/sewing project
- Making one of our Avid Seamstress patterns
Day, evening and weekend times are available.
Each lesson is one hour.
If you are unsure of how long you need or whether we can help you, please email hello@theavidseamstress.co.uk and we can work together to find a solution.
Once your workshop is booked we will get in touch to confirm the date and time .
TEACHER
Our founder, Lisa Falconer, has been an avid sewist since childhood. She loves to spend time in her studio developing sewing patterns and teaching the incredible art of sewing.
Lisa’s mantra is “enjoy the whole journey; she will teach you how to enjoy each stage of creating a garment, from preparing the fabric, pinning and cutting to finally sewing. Each of these are integral parts of the process, and she loves to inspire an appreciation for each of these stages. She’ll teach you essential skills, tips and tricks, and you’ll have a great time along the way.
Corporate
WHOLESALE & STOCKISTS
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