£65.00
Size GuideEvery 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:
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
£60.00
Size GuideLearn to create your very own handmade Macramé plant pot holder.
Join Jackie from Bonnie Lass Create for an exciting Macramé Workshop at The Avid Seamstress. Discover the art of macramé and learn how to create stunning designs using various knotting and beading techniques. Whether you're a beginner or have some experience, this hands-on workshop is perfect for anyone looking to explore their creative side. An absolute must for any plant lover (a potted plant is included in this workshop).
During this indulgent workshop, your experienced instructor, Jackie, from Bonnie Lass Create, will guide you through the process of creating your own unique macrame plant pot holder. You'll have the opportunity to experiment with different colours and beads, 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:
Lunch and Afterrnoon session:
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 your own beautiful masterpiece. 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 beads to create something truly unique.
Timings:
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.
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
£185.00
Size GuideJoin us for a fun weekend sewing with The Avid Seamstress.
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 6. 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.
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
Sold Out
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:
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 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
Sold Out
Oh boy, do we have something fun planned for you. We know that your lovely sewing hobby sometimes just doesn't get enough time does it? You're often pulled away from your sewing machine by the day to day chores and to do list.
We're opening our studio so that you can leave your cares behind and come and sew to your hearts content with us in our beautiful studio.
Perhaps you are a beginner and would love to create something taking your time and picking up lots of tips along the way. Perhaps you are making your first fully lined coat or blazer and really want to slow down and enjoy each step without having to set it aside till your next opportunity to sew.
Over the course of four days Thursday 10, Friday 11, Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 October our studio is open for you to enjoy. Both Lisa, our founder, and Amanda from Cotton Onto Sewing, will be there guiding you along the way.
Choose from two days, three days or join the whole four day experience.
We're including a light lunch, endless tea & coffee, fruit and treats so that all you need to think about is what you are going to make.
PAYMENT PLAN OPTION available - email hello@theavidseamstress.co.uk. Payment Plan info here.
The Workshop options:
The more days you pick, the cost of the cost of the workshop is reduced.
The Workshop Details
We're including an Avid Seamstress sewing pattern for you to create at the workshop. This workshop covers all levels of sewing - we have students making their first garment to seasoned sewists making coats and blazers.
You can choose one of the following sewing patterns:
Beginner
✂ The Pyjama Bottoms (these are great day/evening trousers too)
✂ The Sheath Dress
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
✂✂ The Wimborne Coat (this is such a super coat for beginners and those more advanced too)
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 which sewing pattern would be suitable please contact us at hello@theavidseamstress.co.uk
You'll receive your own printed sewing pattern in advance and, in some cases, be able to try on the sample before the workshop.
Workshop Capacity
With two teachers supporting you along every step of the way, the max will be 7 for each day.
Workshop timings
All days will start at 10am and finish at 5pm.
We’ll have a break for lunch and will serve a selection of sandwiches (veggie options) & fruit plus a lovely selection of cakes will be offered in the afternoon. If you have a specific dietary requirement please do let us know.
Should you be travelling far and need suggestions for local hotels, please contact us for suggestions.
What you need to bring:
Depending on the date options picked, we'll liaise with you on any pre-workshop pre required. We can help you with fabric choice and fitting guides.
Venue:
The Avid Seamstress. Ground Floor, High Lea Business Centre, Witchampton Lane, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 5AA. For more info on our venue click here
Plenty of free parking available.
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
£85.00
Size GuideIf 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
Lunch and then Afternoon Session
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
Sold Out
We're inviting you to join us for our first non-residential retreat at our retreat location in the gorgeous Dorset countryside. Hosted over 4 days you have the flexibility of joining for two, three or all of the four days.
Perfect for those that would love to enjoy this stunning location but can’t commit to a residential retreat. For those that would like to stay locally, we can suggest many lovely B&B's nearby in the historic market town of Wimborne.
With a payment plan included, you can spread the cost of the retreat.
This venue is a makers dream - a purpose built workshop set on a working farm. Rolling countryside surrounds us and you’ll feel the "to- do" list melt away when you are in this creative space.
Each person has their own table to work with separate overlocker stations set up. A private kitchen and separate dining room is included where we’ll enjoy gorgeous lunches and sewing chats over tea and cake.
This sewing retreat is hosted by Lisa, our Founder and Amanda, well known as the overlocker queen from Cotton Onto Sewing! We’ll share our expert tips and support you making your Avid Seamstress garment (see below for exciting pattern news).
What’s included
An Avid Seamstress sewing pattern of your choice (see below for options)
Light lunch and refreshments
Biscuits, cake, fruit and lots of tea & coffee
The Workshop options:
2 Day Workshop - Thursday 7 & Friday 8 November
2 Day Weekend Workshop - Saturday 9 & Sunday 10 November
3 Day Workshop - Thursday 7, Friday 8 & Saturday 9 November (includes a 10% discount)
3 Day Workshop - Friday 8, Saturday 9 & Sunday 10 November (includes a 10% discount)
4 Day Workshop - Thursday 7, Friday 8, Saturday 9 & Sunday 10 November (includes a 15% discount)
PAYMENT PLAN OPTION available - email hello@theavidseamstress.co.uk. Payment Plan info here.
Workshop timings
All days will start at 10am and finish at 6pm.
Should you be travelling far and need suggestions for local hotels, please contact us for suggestions.
The Workshop Details
We're including an Avid Seamstress sewing pattern for you to create at the workshop. This workshop covers all levels of sewing - we have students making their first garment to seasoned sewists making coats and blazers.
Fancy making a fully lined Coat? We are going to be releasing a full lining add on for The Coat very soon and this is the perfect opportunity to sew yourself a beautiful coat for winter over the retreat days.
If you’re a beginning a fancy making a fully lined coat, The Wimborne Coat is perfect for you. You can make this coat slowly and beautifully under our guidance.
Our next sewing pattern, The Pleated Blouse, is also releasing soon as this is a super garment to make over the gorgeous of a workshop like this.
You can choose one of the following sewing patterns:
Beginner
✂ The Pyjama Bottoms (these are great day/evening trousers too)
✂ The Sheath Dress
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
✂✂ The Wimborne Coat (this is such a super coat for beginners and those more advanced too)
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 (fully lined version available)
✂✂✂ The Blazer
✂✂✂ The Blazer
If you would like to chat through which sewing pattern would be suitable please contact us at hello@theavidseamstress.co.uk
You'll receive your own printed sewing pattern in advance and, in some cases, be able to try on the sample before the workshop.
What you need to bring:
Depending on the date options picked, we'll liaise with you on any pre-workshop required. We can help you with fabric choice and fitting guides.
Venue:
Launceston Farm, Blandford Forum, DT11 8BY
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
£30.00
Size GuideEvery 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:
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.
Printed Sewing Pattern
Encased in a beautiful re-closable envelope, you'll receive one copy of the sewing pattern sheet for your selected pattern printed on high quality 60gsm sewing pattern paper, a photographed step-by-step a5 instruction book, a guide to taking accurate measurements and a checklist card.
Printed Sewing Pattern with additional pattern sheet
The same as the printed sewing pattern option plus an additional sewing pattern sheet. The second pattern sheet copy is perfect for those that don't want to trace or if you are making it in another size.
Digital PDF Pattern
After purchase, you'll instantly receive the digital files which contains:
This is a digital product. You will need to download the files and then print them at home or at a copy shop. The digital instruction book is perfect for working through on your mobile or tablet screen.
The files will be emailed to the email used to purchase the product.
Digital PDF Pattern Plus A0 Pattern Sheet
With this option you'll receive the digitals files via email and will also receive the A0 pattern sheet in the post.
Please note that when you select this option you will only receive the digital files via email when we fulfil the order.
You will need Adobe Reader to open the PDF files - https://get.adobe.com/uk/reader/
View our helpful guide on digital patterns and how to put them together and FAQ's - https://theavidseamstress.com/how-to-construct-a-digital-pattern/
All of our products are in English