Arts Derbyshire

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Start Sewing Clothes from a Paper Pattern @ Our Crafty Place

Event details

Join Our Pattern‑to‑Mock‑Up Garment Workshop

Your tutor, Melinda, is looking forward to welcoming you and sharing her friendly, confidence‑building approach to start sewing clothes from your paper pattern. Learn how to make a mock‑up garment. NB: you may not complete your project in 3 hours but you will go home with all the skills to finish it … and with the motivation to make it for real!

What You’ll Do

  • Use your paper pattern — whether made in our Clone a Garment workshop or brought from home
  • Cut out your fabric using an old sheet, duvet cover or calico
  • Sew your mock‑up garment on the sewing machine with Melinda’s guidance
  • Understand pattern markings and how to follow them
  • Assemble your garment step by step with clear tuition
  • Build confidence to make your final version in your chosen fabric

You Will Explore

  • How to prepare fabric for cutting
  • Simple garment construction techniques
  • How to troubleshoot common sewing issues
  • How to choose suitable fabrics for your “real” garment
  • How to keep patterns simple to ensure success

This Workshop Is Perfect For

  • Beginners with a passion to learn how to make their own clothes
  • Anyone who attended our Clone a Garment workshop
  • People who have a pattern but haven’t felt confident enough to use it
  • Those of you who’ve only done basic projects but now feel ready to try clothing

No experience is needed. If you feel truly motivated to make your own clothes, you’ll be absolutely fine.

Melinda will guide you through each step, offering calm, practical support throughout the evening.

What’s Included

  • Expert tuition from an experienced garment maker
  • Use of sewing machines
  • Guidance on pattern layout, cutting and construction
  • Refreshments throughout the evening

You’ll leave with a completed mock‑up garment, plus the confidence and skills to make your final version in your chosen fabric.

What to Bring

  • Reading glasses if needed
  • Your paper pattern (simple patterns only, please!)
  • An old sheet, duvet cover or calico to cut your mock‑up from
  • Please feel free to bring a small, easy‑to‑eat snack if you’ll miss your evening meal … we can provide a plate

Most importantly, bring your curiosity and enjoy the process.

Workshop Details

  • Time: 6pm – 9pm
  • Arrival: From 5:30pm for a warm welcome and a cuppa
  • Group size: Limited to 8 people for a friendly, supportive atmosphere

Cost

£30 + 71p card fee The cost has been kept low, as you will be bringing the material needed to make your mock up. We will provide refreshments during the evening.

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