Make your own zero waste sweatshirt

‘Zero Waste Sewing’ is a philosophy that encourages the reuse of fabric offcuts, the repurposing of preloved textiles / clothing or the redesign of patterns/garment construction to minimise or create no waste. It encourages us to look at ‘waste’ materials as a valuable resource or be more mindful with the ways we use materials in the first place.

With a spirit of adventure, join Barley Massey for a fun and social event in creatively transforming your own ‘waste’ textiles into something new and functional. We will be taking inspiration from Wendy Ward's book "Sewing Basics for Every Body" and using the "Felix Sweatshirt" pattern as our starting point. A loose fitting, casual top, an essential core garment for any handmade wardrobe! The book is also available in Fabrications shop.

Barley has been a professional "upcycler", championing creative textile reuse for over 25 years. She will share some of the techniques and tips from her own making practice and show you a collection of examples to inspire you before you get started on your own version.

All levels of sewer are welcome but basic sewing skills are recommended. If you have never used a sewing machine before and would like to attend this class, we recommend attending our Beginners Sewing 1 class first.

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

- look at ‘waste’ textiles from a new perspective

- create your own zero waste version of the "Felix Sweatshirt"

- develop sensitivity in combining different colours and shapes

- patchwork together to create your own unique cloth from offcuts also known as ‘Scrap Busting’

- understand how to "Trace Off" (copy) a paper pattern

- work with a ‘basic block’ and understand how to create variations and expand your range of items from 1 block

- work with knitted / stretch material on a domestic sewing machine

- add ribbed band edging - cuffs, neckbands and hembands

- walk away with a completed item

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: 4 Students

T ime: 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.

What to Bring: Sweatshirt offcuts or at least 2 old sweatshirt items from home or your local charity shop. If you are unsure on what to bring please do contact Fabrications to discuss further.

Class Includes: Your own copy of Wendy Ward's new book "Sewing Basics for Every Body" which contains 20 different 'essential' designs. Pattern paper. Threads, other haberdashery and use of equipment.

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.

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