Saturday, 25 October

Introduction to garment repairs & alterations (machine sewing)

By FABRICATIONS

Learn some practical techniques and creative ways to repair, alter and upcycle your clothes using a sewing machine.

Date and time

Location

FABRICATIONS

7 Broadway Market Hackney London E8 4PH United Kingdom

Artists

Good to know

Highlights

6 hours, 30 minutes
In person

Refund Policy

No Refunds

About this event

This class focuses on practical and creative ways to repair and alter your clothes using a sewing machine. It has been developed for those fairly new to using a sewing machine and is a good foundation class before working directly on your own clothing, which takes place in afternoon part 'Refresh your Wardrobe'.

Basic sewing skills advised. If you have never used a sewing machine before, we recommend attending our 'Beginners Sewing 1' - introduction to using a sewing machine class first.

The morning class will consist of a series of hands on sewing techniques and demonstrations by Barley, giving you the basic practical understanding in how to tackle simple sewing alterations, repairs and 'upcycling' on all kinds of clothing. There will also be a collection of transformed garments to inspire and inform.

On completion of the class participants will confidently be able to:

- Prepare a garment for modifying from trying on, measuring, pinning and best approach for sewing

- Understand how to take seams in or out

- Know how to lift or extend a hem

- Apply darts, pleats, gathering and elasticating to reduce volume and shape to your body

- How to create 'extra volume' if a garment is too tight or not fitting correctly

- Look at old clothes in a whole new way!

All materials provided, and use of 'Brother' sewing machines, scissors etc.

About the Tutor: The class is taught by Barley Massey - a life long "sewist", passionate about creative reuse and encouraging others into the joys of making, remaking and mending. Barley used to work in costume for film & TV before establishing "Fabrications" on Broadway Market 25 years ago. She is an experienced tutor, aiming to build student's self confidence and knowledges. She teaches a regular programme at Fabrications as well as with other organisations and at events.

Class Size: Max. 6 students

Time: 11am - 5:30pm (Please arrive promptly)

Where: The class will take place in Fabrications "Re Imaginerium" studio (we no longer have a shop cat as depicted in one of the photos!) which is downstairs from the shop via 12 steps. The studio is light and bright with a homely feel to help you feel relaxed and inspired whilst learning. You will have your own work area (with some shared facilities like ironing, cutting table) We purposefully keep class sizes small to ensure a quality experience and plenty of guidance time with the tutor.

Please Bring: Items of clothing to work on in the afternoon session. Students usually complete 1 - 3 items. All other materials provided, and use of 'Brother' sewing machines, scissors etc.

Please Note: There is no food or drink allowed in the studio, You are welcome to bring a sealed water bottle but please ensure all 'take outs' are consumed before arriving. For full day classes there is a scheduled lunch break.

Scroll down for Frquently asked questions.

Full Booking Terms & Conditions: HERE

For more information about Fabrications and our classes, please visit our Website

Frequently asked questions

Can I bring my own sewing machine?

We use 'Brother' LX25 sewing machines (top loading bobbin) which are regularly serviced and tested. The knowledge and techniques taught are suitable for all sewing machine models. If you'd still prefer to use your own sewing machine, you must contact us directly, in advance of the class to arrange.

Can I bring food & drinks in?

There are no food and drinks permitted in Fabrications shop and studio. You are welcome to bring a re sealable drinks bottle and there will be a planned lunch break for all full day classes. Bring your own packed lunch or Broadway Market has a wealth of cafe's and food stalls to choose from.

What if I am late?

Please arrive promptly for class, ideally 5 mins before, we have a lot of content to work through. If you are experiencing transport issues please contact us on 020 7275 8043 or 07958 424 808 . If you just turn up late, you may be refused entry, it's diruptive and unfair on the rest of the group.

Do I need to bring any materials?

Most of our classes include materials, but please check the "Class Includes" or "What to Bring" in the events description. Please bring items of clothing for the afternoon part of the Introduction to garment alterations and repairs class.

What is the minimum age for the class?

We welcome Teens with some sewing experience for this class. However, please get in touch or visit Fabrications before booking, so we can meet the young person and guage if the class will be appropriate at this time.

Are the classes wheelchair accessible?

The classes take place in Fabrications studio, which is downstairs from the shop via 12 steps. If you are able to use stairs, there is a mezzanine area where you can tuck away your wheelchair. Please get in touch before booking to discuss any accomodations.

What if I need to cancel my booking?

Our classes are non refundable. There is a link to our full Booking T&C's in the description. If you contact us giving enough notice we may be able to transfer you to another date. If we are able to fill your place we will always offer an alternative, but this is isn't guaranteed.

Organised by

FABRICATIONS

Established in June 2000 on Broadway Market, East London by textile designer maker, Barley Massey, Fabrications has grown into a buzzing hub of creativity focusing on social textiles, upcycling and eco design through our shop, studio and classes. 25 years on our aim is still to inspire a joy of making whilst encouraging thoughtful and resourceful ways of living in a welcoming and creative environment.

In our bricks & mortar or online shop, discover one off upcycled creations to wear, give as gifts or dress your home with! Items are created by Barley all year round, changing with the seasons, and due to the recycled nature and the spontaneous way she works with 'waste' materials and pre loved clothing, each piece is unique and unrepeatable.

Fabrications is also a great source of crafting supplies to fuel your next project, whether it’s knitting, crochet, weaving, macramé, embroidery, sewing, dressmaking or another creative endeavor. We are dedicated to offering good quality supplies at a fair price from local, sustainable & ethical sources. Fabrications is also an authorised local dealer of domestic Brother sewing machines, overlockers and accessories.

In the studio, we offer a commissioning service, including Barley's sensitive 'Remember Me' service, which enables you to bring along old garments and textiles holding sentimental value to be transformed into comforting home furnishings, new garments or gifts for loved ones.

The Studio or "Imaginerium" is also open as a creative classroom, offering a regular programme of classes, events and our popular fortnightly Community "Craft Club". We are looking forward to meeting and getting creative with you!

£98.22

Oct 25 · 11:00 GMT+1