i have always found skirts to be the perfect project to begin one’s journey into pattern drafting and garment sewing, mainly because they are a relatively simple item of clothing to construct and get the fit right. and so it’s the first class i’m offering for this Fall 2019 series of handmade wardrobe workshops! this one starts soon (Wednesday, 9/18) so let me know asap if you’d like to join us!
to register, or if you have any questions, email me at cal@calpatch.com. all classes will require payment in advance (by check or Paypal), and a minimum number of students to run. the exact address will be provided when you register. deadline to register is one week before start of class. please read my class policies; by registering for a class you agree to honor them.
Make Your Own Skirt (at my studio in Kerhonkson, NY) $180
Four 2-hour classes, Wednesday evenings 9/18, 9/25, 10/2, 10/9 from 6-8pm
In this 4-week class, you will learn how to draft a pattern for an A-line skirt, based on your very own measurements. Then you will cut it out and sew it up! New skills you will acquire are: measuring properly, pattern drafting, making and fitting a muslin, invisible zippers, darts, french seams, and bias-tape facings. Once you’ve made your first, you’ll see how many possibilities there are are for all sorts of modifications. You might never buy another skirt again!
Note: Students must have at least competent beginner sewing skills (i.e. a few simple projects under your belt) and be comfortable with their machine. Some homework will likely be necessary in order to complete the project.
Supplies:
For the pattern:
- pad of 18×24 paper or roll at least 14″ wide
- notebook
- pencil/eraser/sharpener
- ruler (18×2″ clear is ideal)
- scissors for paper
- clear tape
- tape measure.
For the skirt:
- Sewing machine + extension cord
- invisible zipper foot*
- 2 yards muslin (or inexpensive “wearable muslin” fabric)
- 2 yards medium weight woven fabric** (printed cotton, denim, corduroy, linen, etc…)
- invisible zipper to match (7″ length)
- 1 package 1/2″ single-fold bias tape (can match or contrast)
- all-purpose thread
- basic sewing supplies: fabric scissors, pins & cushion, seam ripper, tailor’s chalk/wax
*Invisible zipper feet are different than regular zipper feet, and usually don’t come with your machine. Try to find the YKK brand one, which fits any machine: http://www.amazon.com/Invisible-Zipper-Foot-YKK-Zippers/dp/B001C1Y3UO or order the metal one that fits your machine brand + model
**Fabric should ideally be pre-washed and dried (as you will want to wash your handmade garment) to reduce or eliminate shrinkage.
NOTE: You will need only the pattern supplies (plus your muslin, scissors and pins) at the first class session, and all of the supplies at the remaining 3 sessions.
