Beginners - Sewing Machine One Day Workshop

Beginners - Sewing Machine One Day Workshop

This is a basic sewing course for those who want to start from the beginning, get sewing and learn more about their sewing machine.

By Steph Thannhauser

Date and time

Sun, 21 Sep 2025 10:15 - 16:00 GMT+1

Location

Westbury Arts Centre

Foxcovert Road Shenley Wood Milton Keynes MK5 6AA United Kingdom

Refund Policy

Refunds up to 7 days before event

About this event

  • Event lasts 5 hours 45 minutes

“My soul is fed with needle and thread”


Who is this course for?

Sick and tired of trying to figure out your sewing machine? Want to learn how to sew things for yourself and your family? Well, this class is for you. You may be a total beginner or you may want to gain some sewing confidence.


Details

This may be a basic sewing course for those who want to start from the beginning, however, you also make 3 really lovely practical items along the way. You will use quality fabrics designed by Steph and carefully selected for each project. During the 5-hour day (Steph usually allows half an hour for lunch and a bit of time either end for set up and pack up) you will have plenty of time to ask questions and chances to try different techniques.

This workshop is about immersing yourself in the joy of creativity, ditching perfectionism and embracing the fun of creating. Steph has over 35 years of experience with sewing and making things and is keen to share her love of creating, so please join her for the chance to learn, make and grow.


What will I make during the day?

Throughout the day you will make a drawstring bag, a reversible tote bag and a hen doorstop. You learn all the techniques that build your skills and your confidence to help you sew independently. Don’t worry if you can’t thread a needle or sew in a straight-line as Steph will show you some nifty hints and tricks to help you along the way. She will guide you through every step in this relaxed, informal and fun class.


What is provided

Guidance - every step of the way!

Three kits worth over £30. The kits include everything you need for your three makes, fabrics, ribbons, stuffing, buttons, whatever is needed, all you require are in the kits ready for you when you arrive.

Hints and tips - I share all the little things I've learned during my many years of sewing.

A warm sociable friendly atmosphere - Westbury Art Centre is the perfect enviroment for learning and sewing.

Refreshments - Tea and coffee is provided but please bring a packed lunch. There is nowhere nearby to get lunch so please something with you.


What happens during the day?

10.15am - class arrives, tea and coffee is served (and available throughout the day).

10.30am - Steph will tell you all about your machine and demonstrate some basic functions. She will show you how to

  • Thread your sewing machine.
  • Wind and insert a bobbin.
  • Sew in a straight line, change direction and reverse stitch.
  • Feed fabric through.

Steph will then work with everyone one to one and make sure all class members are able to complete their first stitches. You'll get a chance to practice on some scrap fabric that will be provided.

The class will then make a drawstring bag, you will be shown every step of the way what to do.

You will then make a reversible tote bag, again Steph will guide you at all times.

Lunch break will be around 1pm for roughly half and hour.

In the afternoon you will make a hen doorstop, your third item - yey!

Yes! You WILL make three things in one day even though you are beginner.

Don't worry if it sounds like a lot of work and you are worried you might not be able to do it. Steph chooses simple projects that are tried and tested and she makes sure your makes are successful every step of the way. `

Throughout the day you will get plenty of chances to ask questions and Steph will demonstrate whenever needed. Troubleshooting, hints and tips will be shared to help you on your sewing journey. Honestly, you won't regret doing this course, please see the testimonials below. Attendees leave Stephs classes happy, proud and clutching three finsihed makes to show off to their friends and family.


Please bring the following to class:

  • Sewing machine (kindly ensure it works. If you don't have a sewing machine, it may be possible to rent one from me but please contact me first to confirm).
  • Pencil and pen.
  • Notebook
  • Hand sewing needles and some pins
  • Thread, white will do for most items we make on the day but bring other colours if you have them.
  • Sharp scissors, preferably a small pair and a large pair for cutting out fabric.


Parking

There is free parking st Westbury.


Can't make this date?

Follow me here on Eventbrite, then everytime I list a course you will get an email notifiction.

Or, if you have a few friends that want to learn to sew, I can create a day around you. Please message me for more info - steph@stephthannhauser.com


Testimonials

"Steph is a great teacher, she gives you lots of practical and hands on activities where you actually produce something creative at the end of it! Through her sewing classes she has really inspired me to learn more. Steph’s own designs are fun, colourful and modern, sometimes thought provoking. She likes to move with the times, but her designs remain true to her style". Jenni

I went from a total beginner to creative Genius (well almost) because of Stephs classes! She is patient, fun, talented and generous. I love the classes and can’t wait for the next one. Jaz

I really enjoyed the course. The instructor was really supportive, helpful and gave me lots of confience. I feel quite inspired and want to carry on making things. Christine

Friendly, relaxed and inspiring! Easy to follow instructions with some great projects to take home – Diane

Excellent step on my sewing journey. Thanks Steph - Michel

This class was everything you could ask for as a beginner. I’m so happy I joined it. It was very fantastic – Tracy

Fantastic tutor, encouraging and inspirational – Joanne

Frequently asked questions

I am a total beginner and am releally nervous becasue I don't know anything about my machine.

Great, this class is for you. I start from the very beginning. The class is small so there is plenty of time with me when you need it. I offer a warm welcome and give reassurance as required.

I did do some sewing years ago but I am a bit rusty is that ok?

You'll fit into this class perfectly. I start from the very beginning so you will get a great refresh while making some things and meeting other sewists. It's a win win!

Do I need a seing machine?

Ideally yes. But if you are dipping your toe in that water and don't want to invest in a machine yet, then you may be able to rent a machine from me. Please message me for more info steph@stephthannhausr.com

Organised by

Steph Thannhauser has over 35 years of sewing experience. In fact, she can’t remember a day when she wasn’t making or sewing something. She started young and has never stopped. Steph did a degree in Printed Textiles at Loughborough College of Art and Design then subsequently worked in-house and in freelance, creating art for many different products and clients. Her favourite thing to do is design patterns which can then be used in sewing projects.

Teaching people to sew and sharing her love of creativity was a natural progression for Steph. She teaches in the Milton Keynes area but is also planning to teach online too.

Please take a look at her website and sign up to her mailing list.

https://stephthannhauser.com/

£103.63