BEGINNERS INTRODUCTION TO SEWING & GARMENT ALTERATIONS: Saturday 9th August

Would you love to learn how to use a sewing machine and start altering your clothes for a better fit?

Maybe you want to make clothes or lovely things for your home?

This is the perfect course for you, as you will learn to sew on a machine from scratch in a beautiful fashion design studio in Conway Mill, Belfast. You will also learn how to start altering your clothes - save money on seamstress costs and do it yourself!

This all- day class is taught by studio owner MaryRose McGrath - a womenswear designer with over twenty five years of experience in the fashion industry. During her career, she has designed for many fashion brands, including Oasis, M&S, Debenhams, Arcadia, House Of Fraser and more.

She teaches key sewing techniques which are used in the industry - also included are many nifty tips and tricks of the trade, which guarantee superb sewing results every time.

As you learn, you'll be surrounded by inspiration galore in the studio - sketches & swatches, designs in work, mood boards & mannequins.

One-to-one tuition is guaranteed for each student in class, and the course has been specifically designed to fast-track your sewing success in a concentrated period of time. All this means you will advance from a nervous novice to a confident sewer by the end of the day.

For past student feedback, see our fantastic course reviews below...

⭐️ What you will learn in class: Sew Like a Pro & Must-Know Garment Alterations Techniques

• UNDERSTAND ALL ABOUT THE SEWING MACHINE:

* An easy-to-understand, thorough explanation of the sewing machines: the confusing dials & knobs and what each one does

• SEW LIKE A PRO:

* How to thread the machine correctly - learn about threads and why your choice matters

* How to wind the bobbin properly

* How to sew with milimetre precision and how to achieve perfect seams each time

*Understand thread tension and how to fix problems with stitches

* Seam allowances & why they matter in sewing & alterations

• BEGINNER GARMENT ALTERATION TECHNIQUES:

*Fitting garments - a beginner friendly, step by step guide revealing the insider techniques used by professional seamstresses to achieve a flawless fit

*Measuring and sewing hems - learn how to measure precisely and sew clean, polished hems

*Adjusting seams - Discover how to take in and let out seams for a personalised, professional - quality fit

*Sewing darts - master the secrets to sewing darts that shape garments beautifully

⭐️ What makes this class different from the rest?

Spend the day with MaryRose in her fashion studio for expert, in-depth sewing tuition, complete with access to your own Brother sewing machine, and all the fabric and thread you need — all included. Taught by an industry professional with extensive experience in design and garment construction, this class offers real-world insights and techniques you won’t find anywhere else. It’s the perfect starting point for your sewing journey, leaving you inspired, confident, and ready to dive into exciting projects and alterations with skill and creativity!

⭐️ Where is the course held?

The course is held in MaryRose's fashion design studio in Conway Mill, Belfast.

The address is Conway Mill, 5-7 Conway Street, Belfast BT13 2DE.

⭐️ Who is the course suitable for?

This course is perfect for absolute beginners age 18+ who have never used a sewing machine before and haven't a clue where to start - it is also ideal for those who have not sewn in years and need a refresher course to get back on track.

Garment alterations are covered, so the course is suited for those who want to tailor their clothes for a great personalised fit.

⭐️ What age do you have to be to take part in the class?

Classes are for ages 18+. Young sewers aged 12+ are also welcome if they are accompanied by a parent/guardian who is also booked on the course.

⭐️ Do I need to bring a sewing machine with me?

No need - all students learn on the excellent Brother sewing machines supplied in class.

⭐️ What do I need to bring with me on the day?

We supply your sewing machine, fabrics, threads and tools - however, you will need to bring the following:

* Reading glasses if you need them for close-up work

* A notebook and pen for all the notes and important info you will be taught in class.

⭐️ How much does the course cost?

The course cost is £99.

⭐️ How do I book the course?

You can book this course here through Eventbrite using PayPal. Eventbrite charges a booking fee.

OR

You can book the course through the studio, for no booking fee.

Please e-mail your mobile number to: info@maryrosemcgrath.com to book through the studio. We will be in touch to book your space in class.

⭐️ Other questions are answered in the FAQ section below.

⭐️ Where to Meet Before Class Starts:The studio is closed before class begins. MaryRose will meet all students at Conway Mill reception on the ground floor at 9:25 a.m. and bring you up to the studio on the second floor when doors open at 9:30 a.m. Both lifts and stairs are available.

Terms and conditions of booking:

1. Late arrivals: There is a huge amount to learn in the all-day class - late arrivals disrupt students, the tutor and the teaching schedule. Late arrivals of 15 minutes or more are not accepted into class as it is impossible to recap after this time.

2. Non-attendance: Due to the small number of students in class & the niche nature of this course, a new beginners course on another date / refunds / class credit notes / class vouchers are not provided if the student has not attended the course for any reason including : covid / covid isolation/ illness / unexpected or personal circumstances / transport issues / weather conditions / other.

3: Transferring your booking: If you're unable to attend the course, you’re welcome to transfer your booking to another person. To do so, please contact the studio with the new attendee’s name at least two working days before the course begins.

Please email info@maryrosemcgrath.com, ensuring your message is received during our office hours: Tuesday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.Please note: Name changes must be made via email—messages sent via social media will not be accepted.

4. Course cancellation: On rare occasions, classes may have to be cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances. We will inform students immediately by e-mailing & calling. You will be offered a refund, a transfer to another date, or a class credit note. Please note we are not liable for any costs incurred.

5. Speed of learning: Progress and speed of learning depends on each student's natural abilities during class.

6. A minimum number of students are required for this course to take place.

7.Bookings made in error are non refundable.