MAKE A COMFY PAIR OF PJ'S OR RELAXED TROUSERS - Weekend workshop - (Beginner)

If you’re looking to take the first step into dressmaking, this is the perfect place to start. In this workshop, you’ll be guided and supported every step of the way to make your very own pyjama bottoms using our popular Pyjama Bottoms sewing pattern. And if pyjamas aren’t your style, you can make a pair of relaxed trousers (or, depending on your fabric choice, fancy work trousers) using the same sewing pattern. 

This workshop is tailored to beginners, so if you’ve dabbled on a sewing machine and you’re ready to take the next step into dressmaking, you will learn everything you need to know to move forward on your sewing journey. 

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.

What you will learn

With our expert guidance, you will learn a number of techniques that you can take forward for all your sewing projects. This will include how to:

• Measure yourself accurately and choose the right size
• Cut out a sewing pattern
• Decoding pattern symbols and jargon
• Fabric tips - how to fold the fabric and follow a layplan
  
• Learn to pin the pattern to the fabric
• Transfer pattern notations 
  
• Accurately pin and cut the fabric

And then onto sewing, you will:

• Learn to sew accurately, creating your garment
• Receive personalised support 
• Have a great time sewing with others! 

You'll receive your own copy of The Pyjama Bottoms sewing pattern (worth £16) to keep with the option to purchase an additional pattern sheet should you wish to make more in other sizes (£5).

There is a maximum of 4 students in this workshop. This means you’ll enjoy lots of time, expert support, and a relaxed environment to learn in. 

About The Pyjama Bottoms

The Pyjama Bottoms is the perfect first sewing pattern for anyone taking their first steps into the world of dressmaking. The Pyjama Bottoms are full-length and have a relaxed fit with an elasticated waistband, side seam pockets and a tie front created with an optional buttonhole or mock tie.

The Pyjama Bottoms have been created with you, the beginner seamstress, in mind. Our clear and straightforward instructions are there to guide you through each step as if an expert seamstress is right there by your side. Sizes UK 6- 22.

WORKSHOP DETAILS

This workshop has been set over 2 days so that we can really focus on teaching you some amazing skills and not rush the most important part - the preparation, cutting the pattern sheet accurately, pinning and cutting the fabric and preparing the garment to sew. We want to slow down and enjoy the process of creating a garment and don’t want to rush through it. You’ll pick up so many incredible tips and tricks that you can use for all your future projects.

For the first day, we’ll get through all the preparation and start the first stages of sewing. In the second part of the workshop, you’ll complete your garment and are free to leave when you are finished or can continue using the machines to stitch something else until the end of the workshop.

If you join this workshop and wish to move to the second beginner's workshop - The Drop Sleeve Top - we will provide a 15% discount code for you.

Timings 10h00-17h00 each day with a break for lunch. On the second day, you are welcome to leave once you have finished your garment or carry on stitching something else until close.  We'll provide tea & coffee and cake each afternoon.

Should you be travelling far and need suggestions for local hotels, please contact us at hello@theavidseamstress.co.uk   

Class size The class size for this workshop will be a maximum of 4. Each person will have their own space to work from and will be provided with a kit (paper & fabric scissors, pencil and measuring tape) to use in the workshop.

Sewing machines are available but we suggest that, if possible, you bring your own sewing machine to this workshop.

Please note that we need a minimum of 4 for this workshop to go ahead.

Skills needed This workshop is aimed at those who have basic sewing skills and have used a sewing machine. This is not a class for absolute beginners. You should be able to thread the sewing machine, wind a bobbin with thread, as well as use the machine to make basic stitches such as a straight stitch. We will help you with more complicated issues such as machine tension. This workshop is perfect for those that haven't created their own garments or would like to create their first garment, picking up great tips along the way.

WHAT YOU NEED TO BRING

Sewing machines Various sewing machines will be provided, however, we promote people bringing their own sewing machine. 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.

Supplies Needed

• Fabric
• Thread to match fabric
• Buttonhole presser foot if bringing your own machine
  
• We'll provide 3cm wide elastic, iron-on interfacing, safety pin and a buttonhole presser foot for our machines.

Fabric If making a pair of pyjama's, light to medium weight woven fabrics: cotton lawn, flannel, brushed cotton, cotton fleece or fabric that is soft & breathable with natural fibres work well.  We currently have the same fabric as in the main image if you'd like to purchase it on the day.

If making a pair of trousers, use a light to medium weight woven but avoid large prints or large stripes.

See below for fabric guides. If unsure, please email us the fabric you are thinking of buying and we will be happy to help you. 

TEACHER BIO - Lisa Falconer

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. 

WORKSHOP BOOKING DETAILS

How to book Choose the weekend date from the dropdown menu.

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