Workshops

Do you have a favourite garment that you would love to recreate? On this two day workshop you will learn how to make a pattern from your garment and make up a toile for fitting. We cannot guarantee that you will have time to make the duplicate, it will very much depend on what you choose to copy. It would be best to bring along a simple garment to learn the techniques – a consultation with Claire can be arranged before the workshop.

A fantastic opportunity to make chunky, luxurious rugs using a traditional Peg Loom. You will be able to complete a series of samples during the day and have the skills to make more at home. We will use a combination of recycled fabric and Goodwood organic sheep fleece to build up fabulous textural surface to your own tastes and colour preferences. If you love the technique you will be able to buy your loom to take home with you at a cost of £36

All pattern, fabric and notions are included in the cost of the workshop. Two in one, what more could you ask for! On this workshop you will learn to alter a straight skirt pattern to an A line then choose 2 fabrics for your reversible wrap skirt with ribbon waist and tie. The skirt in the picture that Claire made is from two linens. On offer will be a host of cottons and linens to choose from.

All thread and fabric is included in the cost of the workshop. Take your overlocker out of the box and bring it along to our Overlocking day! If you don't have one then then you can use one of ours. Learn how to thread your machine and how to set it up for finishing seams, constructing garments, decorative stitches and the perfect rolled hem. You will leave with samples and notes to give you confidence to use your overlocker for all your creative projects and the professional finish. Please when booking let us know what make your overlocker is or that you would like to use one of ours.

All materials are included in the cost of the workshop. Come and learn how to make beautiful pillowcases using french seams to give it a professional finish. We will be using beautiful cottons and you will go away at the end of the day with two pillowcases ready to revamp your bedroom.

Wouldn’t it be lovely to have the perfect fitting bra without the changing room! This course is the perfect place to start. You will create a simple and beautiful bra made of high quality materials. Learning all the techniques and processes so that you can create many more. You need to be confident in using a sewing machine. Please call me if you are not sure about your experience.

On this 2nd part of our Overlocking Workshops you will learn to use your Overlocker to create decorative stitches. Using different threads and even fishing line, you will create samples as well as making a bag with a zip - all with your overlocker. If you would like to use one of our overlockers then you are very welcome.

All materials are included in the cost of the workshop Keeping a sketchbook is like keeping a diary but this diary is a visual record of all your ideas. We will explore a multitude of techniques and materials including collage, paint, fabric and stitch. This workshop is designed to take away the fear of the blank page! At the end of the day you will take with you the beginnings of a journal that will inspire your future work whether it is a quilt, a wall piece, a cushion or a dress. From a previous student! “Thank you so much Debs for the brilliant sketchbook day, I was so frightened! but now I can’t put it down” Marina

All the Fabrics, notions & pattern for your chosen project will be include in this workshop A three day sewing school, you can make a one of the following garments from a selection of quality cotton fabrics – a playsuit, crop top, PJ’s with an applique top. Each day we will start with individual tuition on your chosen garment and the rest of the day will be spent working on your garment under expert guidance.

As you enter the winding lane that leads to the mill you feel the real world and its stresses slipping away. This is a place that works magic on tired minds and stressed bodies restoring calm, balance and a sense of peace. Sitting quietly in 20 acres of completely private grounds on the banks of the River Dronne. Le Moulin de Larcy has been lovingly restored by Anita and Simon to create three stylish apartment suites, each brimming with character and luxury.

Because of the peace and tranquility that the mill offers this is also the perfect place to learn the magic of textiles with the old adage of “ whilst the hands are busy the mind is still”. The inspiration all around you at the mill is the perfect place to learn new ways and techniques in textiles. You will work with likeminded people in a beautiful environment.

WORKSHOPS
The workshops will be run at the Le Moulin De Larcy in a beautiful airy large studio. We have designed two four-day workshops, which allow you to really investigate the techniques and develop your work. The workshops are about giving you the confidence to learn and develop not only the practical techniques but also your own creativity. Both are ideal for beginners or for those who would like to develop further.

COLOURING FABRIC AND KANTHA STITCH - 7th April - 12th April
The first two days of the workshop will be learning to silk paint and block print on cotton. We will use inspiration from our beautiful surroundings. The final two days of your workshop you will use the fabric you have created to make a kantha quilt, which is a technique from Bangladesh and traditionally, used to stitch old saris together. The technique creates beautiful simple texture.

FELT MAKING AND PEG LOOM WEAVING - 14th April - 19th April
The first two days of this workshop we will explore the wonderful world of wet felt making. Working with merino wool tops and you will learn to make flat felt, nuno felt and 3d felt. The final two days will be spent learning to peg loom weave – one of the oldest and simplest ways to weave. We will be working on a double loom so that we can work both a chunky weave ideal for rugs and a finer weave for bags or cushions

YOUR HOST
Simon and Anita Black (from Yorkshire and South Africa!) have restored the buildings and the estate to create the most beautiful place. In 2009 the mill was selected by Michelin to appear in their prestigious French Guide. The listings in the Michelin Guides are entirely at the discretion and cost of the Michelin organisation, so a very great compliment to them both. Anita is a very very fine cook, using lots of produce from her vegetable garden and milk from the local cows!

YOUR TEACHER
Deborah Harwood owns The Textile Space in Charlton, West Sussex where she runs textile workshops and continues her own work. Deborah started sewing twelve years ago and went on to do her BA in Textile Art at Winchester School of Art. This year Deborah won Sussex Woman of the Year in Arts.

For this four day sewing school you can make a garment of your choice – a skirt, shirt, dress or even a jacket or a pair of jeans. Bring along your pattern and fabric and learn all the skills you need. Each day we will start with tuition and discussion on techniques, you will see examples of simple and couture finishes which you can use in your garment construction. The rest of the day will be spent working on your garment under expert guidance.

All material, pattern and notions included in the cost of the workshop. Using a classic Vogue Design choose one of five designs to create your T Shirt. Take the fear out of sewing with stretch fabrics on this one day workshop. We have a choice of excellent quality t-shirt fabric. Learn all the techniques you need to make this wardrobe essential and leave with a garment and pattern so you can make many more.

You can make a garment of your choice – a skirt, shirt, dress or even a jacket or a pair of jeans. Bring along your pattern and fabric and learn all the skills you need. The dates of the workshop are Wednesday nights 6.00pm - 8.30pm 15th April 22nd April 29th April 6th May 13th May 20th May

All materials and notions are included in the cost of the workshop. Learn how to tailor a traditional hand-stitched lampshade with professional lampshade maker Polly Kettley of FollyandGlee. You will learn all the traditional techniques necessary to complete a lampshade to take home at the end of the day. You will learn, how to bind your lampshade frame, how to make the template pattern for a perfect fit cover, how to stitch your cover to the frame and explore options for trimming and finishing your lampshade. You can select your fabric from a great selection at the barn or a vintage piece from Folly &Glee;’s collection of stunning original vintage barkcloths. There will be everything you need to complete a second shade at home which you can purchase on the day. Take a look at Polly's website www.follyandglee.co.uk

All fabric, pattern and notions are included in the cost of the workshop. A crisp tailored shirt can be worn with anything from suits to jeans. This workshop will teach you the techniques used in making a classic shirt. Seam finishes, hems and buttonholes will all be covered. After adjusting the pattern, you will make your garment from a choice of cottons & linens. You can choose to make this for yourself or you can make it for a male friend!

All fabric, pattern and notions are included in the cost of the workshop. A classic Blazer is a wardrobe must, (think Julia Roberts at the end of Pretty Woman, jeans, white t-shirt and a great blue blazer!) This is an unlined jacket with lots of finishing techniques so the inside looks as good as the outside. Learn Hong Kong binding, speed tailoring, tips for perfect collars, inserting sleeves and making buttonholes.

You probably like us have a dress that you love but maybe the waist doesn't quite sit on your waist or the skirt is the wrong shape! A jacket, but the sleeves are just a bit long or your favourite shirt that has seen better days round the collar and needs some attention. Then there is the item you bought but don't quite like and it is sitting there never worn. Come along to this workshop and Claire can help you alter them so that you fall in love with them again! Please bring two or three items along with you to work some magic.

All material, pattern and notions are included in the cost of the workshop On week 1, Debs will teach the technique of Thermofax printing . You will then hand print a design of your choice onto fabric . You will learn how to fix the design and prepare the skirt pieces for making up in week 2 under the guidance of Claire, who will help ensure the perfect fit. You will choose your fabric from our range of cottons and linen.

All thread and fabric is included in the cost of the workshop. Take your overlocker out of the box and bring it along to our Overlocking day! If you don't have one then then you can use one of ours. Learn how to thread your machine and how to set it up for finishing seams, constructing garments, decorative stitches and the perfect rolled hem. You will leave with samples and notes to give you confidence to use your overlocker for all your creative projects and the professional finish. Please when booking let us know what make your overlocker is or that you would like to use one of ours.

All material, pattern and notions are included in the cost of the workshop. Learn to alter a pattern for your size, and make a perfect fitting pair of trousers for the summer. You will choose your fabric from our range of cottons and linen then learn to insert a concealed side zip and different bindings to finish off your trousers.

All fabrics , a patterns and notions included in the cost of the workshop. Create a beautiful nightdress in cotton lawn on this one day workshop. This course is designed with the beginner in mind. You will learn to make French seams and add lace edging to finish your nightdress

On this workshop you will use traditional corsetry materials to create a two layer Victorian style corset. The under layer will be Coutil and the top a fabric of your choice. You will learn how to work with the fabrics, insert a busk and eyelets, use spiral wire and steel boning as well as how to lace your corset. If you have any questions about your sewing machine skills then please do give me a call.

Everything you need to make this stunning designer bag is provided in this workshop including fabric, pattern and notions. We teach you all the techniques required and you could go home carrying it over your shoulder.

 Spend a day at the Barn learning how to make a bag for any occasion with this versatile pattern. You can choose to make a large tote a bag or a shoulder bag, both have magnetic snap attachment to keep everything safe. We will provide everything you’ll need to make your summer bag including the pattern, fabric, threads and notions which you can choose from our shop.

Overcome your fear of zippers in this practical skills workshop! You’ll learn to insert a regular zip, a concealed zip (look like a pro when you make dresses or cushion covers!). A fly zip with a placket and a couture zip. You’ll also get tips for managing broken zips and for altering garments with existing zippers. At the end of the class you’ll leave with samples of each technique, plus a stylish little zippered purse you made yourself. Don’t let zips hold you back!

All materials and thread are included in the cost of the workshop. Free hand machine embroidery allows your imagination to run wild whether figurative or abstract. You will learn all the tricks of the trade including layering with thread and using dissolvable fabric. We will also create a quilted sample. Discover a real freedom in stitch and create at least 4 beautiful samplers in the process. Don’t worry about the drawing I will show you lots of ways to create wonderful images without being Da Vinci!

All material, pattern and notions included in the cost. Create your pefect drawstring trousers, choose to make short or long. Whether to relax at home or as PJ's , you will learn everything you need to know to make them. A choice of wonderful cottons or linens are available. You will also use the overlocker to give your trousers that professional finish. You can then go on and use your pattern to make many more. This one is an excellent choice for your first dressmaking adventure

A fantastic opportunity to make chunky, luxurious rugs using a traditional Peg Loom. You will be able to complete a series of samples during the day and have the skills to make more at home. We will use a combination of recycled fabric and Goodwood organic sheep fleece to build up fabulous textural surface to your own tastes and colour preferences. If you love the technique you will be able to buy your loom to take home with you at a cost of £36

For this four day sewing school you can make a garment of your choice – a skirt, shirt, dress or even a jacket or a pair of jeans. Bring along your pattern and fabric and learn all the skills you need. Each day we will start with tuition and discussion on techniques, you will see examples of simple and couture finishes which you can use in your garment construction. The rest of the day will be spent working on your garment under expert guidance.

On this 2nd part of our Overlocking Workshops you will learn to use your Overlocker to create decorative stitches. Using different threads and even fishing line, you will create samples as well as making a bag with a zip - all with your overlocker. If you would like to use one of our overlockers then you are very welcome.

All material, pattern and notions are included in the cost of the workshop Commercial patterns have lots of information to help you create your project but it can seem like a different language at first. On this workshop you will learn where to find all the information you need, what all the symbols and tables mean and how to use the pattern to get the most from it. You will then make a simple cotton top to put into practice all you have learnt.

You can make a garment of your choice – a skirt, shirt, dress or even a jacket or a pair of jeans. Bring along your pattern and fabric and learn all the skills you need. The dates of the workshop are Wednesday nights 3rd June 10th June 17th June 24th June 1st July 8th July

All material, pattern and notions are included in the cost of the workshop Couture" means dressmaking or sewing and is always associated with high quality. Couture clothes hang beautifully and last for years, they may take longer to make but it is always worth taking the time, especially if you have beautiful fabric. On this workshop you will learn all the skills needed to create a perfectly fitted and finished couture skirt. You will first make a toile which will be altered to fit your figure, next learn about interlining, correct interfacings, zips, waistbands, fastenings and all the hand stiches needed for a couture finish to your garment.

For this four day sewing school you can make a garment of your choice – a skirt, shirt, dress or even a jacket or a pair of jeans. Bring along your pattern and fabric and learn all the skills you need. Each day we will start with tuition and discussion on techniques, you will see examples of simple and couture finishes which you can use in your garment construction. The rest of the day will be spent working on your garment under expert guidance.

All material, pattern and notions are included in the cost of the workshop Firstly have fun designing a skirt for yourself , a friend or even your children/grandchildren. Then learn to applique it onto your skirt. Finally you will make up your design into a perfectly fitting A line skirt for the summer. You will choose your fabric from our range of cottons and linen then add different bindings to finish off your skirt

Everything you need to make this unique garment is provided in this workshop including silk paints, fabric, pattern and notions. We teach you all the techniques required. On the first day, Deborah will teach you the beautiful art of silk painting. You will learn how to blend and divide colour and by the end of the day you will have painted your own silk fabric panel from your chosen design. The following day under the guidance of Claire you will incorporate your silk panel into a kimono, choose from a selection of cotton lawns to make the body of the garment Lots of techniques to learn including French seams and a bit of hand sewing to make this classic Kimono - choose from 2 lengths, short to wear with jeans or long as a robe.

All thread and fabric is included in the cost of the workshop. Learn to get the most of your sewing machine by finding out how to use all the feet that may have come with it and a few more that are available. From zipper feet to walking feet, binding to pin tucks, sequins & piping there are many feet that can make your project easier and neater. You will have the chance to make samples using many different machine feet and make a sewing organiser which uses your new skills too.

On this weekend you can make a dress from the 40's or 50's, choose from a selection of Vintage Vogue patterns and beautiful fabrics and make a dress perfect for Goodwood Revival or for any special occasion. Each day we will start with tuition and discussion on techniques, you will see examples of simple and couture finishes which you can use in your garment construction. The rest of the day will be spent working on your garment under expert guidance.

All thread and fabric is included in the cost of the workshop. Take your overlocker out of the box and bring it along to our Overlocking day! If you don't have one then then you can use one of ours. Learn how to thread your machine and how to set it up for finishing seams, constructing garments, decorative stitches and the perfect rolled hem. You will leave with samples and notes to give you confidence to use your overlocker for all your creative projects and the professional finish. Please when booking let us know what make your overlocker is or that you would like to use one of ours.

Everything you need to make this stunning designer garment is provided in this workshop including fabric, pattern and notions. We teach you all the techniques required and you could go home wearing it. A maxi dress suits many figure shapes and is perfect for a summer day or special enough for evenings. Using a sheer fabric can be a challenge but on this workshop you will learn all the techniques needed to tame this fabric, choose the correct seam and hem finishes

Wouldn’t it be lovely to have the perfect fitting bra without the changing room! This course is the perfect place to start. You will create a simple and beautiful bra made of high quality materials. Learning all the techniques and processes so that you can create many more. You need to be confident in using a sewing machine. Please call me if you are not sure about your experience.

Perfect for yourself or for presents. Making knickers is a fun and practical workshop! You can choose to make for yourself or have a go at making boxer shorts. Everything you need to make two pairs are provided in this workshop including fabric, pattern and notions. We teach you all the techniques required and you could go home wearing them! An array of lovely fabrics to choose from you will also learn french seams and working with elastic.

The cost of the workshop includes all patterns, materials and notions, and of course coffee, tea and plenty of biscuits! Shibori is the Japanese art of resist dying using binding, folding, stitching and twisting to create beautiful fabrics. Kanoko shibori is what we would term as tie-dye but the Japanese developed many many more techniques to create incredibly beautiful patterns. On this course you will learn many of the techniques and how to prepare the dyes. All the dyes we prepare will be safe to use at home. By the end of the day you will have a stash of samples and notes on how to continue to expand this technique.

Everything you need to make this stunning designer garment is provided in this workshop including fabric, pattern and notions. We teach you all the techniques required and you could go home wearing it. A classic shirt dress will suit all figures, this workshop will teach you the techniques used in making a shirt. After adjusting the pattern, you will make your garment. Lots of hints and tips along the way will leave you with a shirt dress to inspire you to make many more.

All material, pattern and notions included in the cost. Create your perfect drawstring trousers, choose to make short or long. Whether to relax at home or as Pj's , you will learn everything you need to know to make them perfectly! A choice of wonderful cottons or linens are available. You will also use the overlocker to give your trousers that professional finish. You can then go on and use your pattern to make many more. This is one is an excellent choice for your first dressmaking adventure

Everything you need to make a lovely pair of shorts is provided in this workshop including fabric, pattern and notions. We teach you all the techniques required and you could go home wearing it. Make a beautiful pair of crisp linen or cotton shorts for the summer months. Choose from a range of colours and choose the length you would like them. On this workshop you will learn to insert the perfect trouser zip and make a perfect fitting pair of shorts. You will be able to take the pattern and the skills you have learnt home with you and create many more.

Everything you need to make this beautiful garment is provided in this workshop including fabric, pattern and notions. We teach you all the techniques required and you could go home wearing it. Using a classic pattern, choose one of five designs to create your T Shirt. Take the fear out of sewing with stretch fabrics on this one day workshop. We have a choice of excellent quality t-shirt fabric. Learn all the techniques you need to make this wardrobe essential and leave with a garment and pattern so you can make many more.

Embroidery is a skill that transfers into so many textile disciplines. You can embroider onto clothing or table linen; you can use it in quilting and pictures. On this workshop you will create a set of samples whilst learning a host of stitches. You will learn how to transfer your design onto the fabric and experiment with different threads.

Everything you need to make this beautiful garment is provided in this workshop including fabric, pattern and notions. We teach you all the techniques required and you could go home wearing it. A tunic or tunic dress is perfect for the summer - wear over a swimsuit on the beach, dress up for an evening or wear with leggings or trousers. On this workshop you will learn to select the correct size pattern, work with beautiful cotton or linen, learn French seams, hems and under stitching and topstitching and take home a perfect tunic and a pattern so you can make lots more.

Everything you need to make this your summer jacket is provided in this workshop including fabric, pattern and notions. We teach you all the techniques required and you could go home wearing it. A summer jacket is a wardrobe essential, choose from linen cotton or denim to make this stylish jacket. On this workshop you will learn to put together the panels, correct seam finishes, top stitching and buttons and button holes.

For this four day sewing school you can make a garment of your choice – a skirt, shirt, dress or even a jacket or a pair of jeans. Bring along your pattern and fabric and learn all the skills you need. Each day we will start with tuition and discussion on techniques, you will see examples of simple and couture finishes which you can use in your garment construction. The rest of the day will be spent working on your garment under expert guidance.

All the Fabrics, notions & patterns for a garment and a bag will be included in this three day summer sewing school. On the first two days you can make a garment of your choice for your summer holidays– shorts, crop top, beach cover-up. On the final day make a beach bag or a book bag for back to school. Each day we will start with tuition on your project, the rest of the day will be spent working on your garment under expert guidance.

For this four day sewing school you can make a garment of your choice – a skirt, shirt, dress or even a jacket or a pair of jeans. Bring along your pattern and fabric and learn all the skills you need. Each day we will start with tuition and discussion on techniques, you will see examples of simple and couture finishes which you can use in your garment construction. The rest of the day will be spent working on your garment under expert guidance.

For this four day sewing school you can make a garment of your choice – a skirt, shirt, dress or even a jacket or a pair of jeans. Bring along your pattern and fabric and learn all the skills you need. Each day we will start with tuition and discussion on techniques, you will see examples of simple and couture finishes which you can use in your garment construction. The rest of the day will be spent working on your garment under expert guidance.

For this four day sewing school you can make a garment of your choice – a skirt, shirt, dress or even a jacket or a pair of jeans. Bring along your pattern and fabric and learn all the skills you need. Each day we will start with tuition and discussion on techniques, you will see examples of simple and couture finishes which you can use in your garment construction. The rest of the day will be spent working on your garment under expert guidance.

Marcy Tilton Month

This month the dressmaking workshops will all be using the wonderful designs of Marcy Tilton. Based in Oregon, USA, Marcy designs patterns for Vogue which are fabulous, wearable garments with lots of design detail.

Marcy’s love of sewing comes through in her designs, curved seam lines, A-symmetrical hemlines, different darts and tucks, unusual pocket details and seam finishes all make for exciting original garments.

We have chosen a mix of patterns using various fabrics so if you are looking for an unusual design, would like to learn new techniques or work with a difficult fabric there is something for everyone.

An exciting challenging month for everyone and we are really looking forward to creating beautiful garments.

Marcy Tilton Dress & Jacket

Everything you need to make this stunning designer garment is provided in this workshop including fabric, pattern and notions. We teach you all the techniques required and you could go home wearing it.

Create a beautiful outfit and learn lots of technique on this 3 day workshop.  The dress is made of panels so lots of matching, create bias binding for the neck and add a pocket. The fitted cardigan has mock front bands and a flounce,work with jersey and learn the correct seam and hem details, finish off with button & loop 

Work with one of our cotton jersey from a collection we carefully selected as we know they will give you a great result , learn to alter your pattern and how to work with jersey fabric, correct seams and hem finishes and gathering.

We hope you will love it enough to purchase another fabric from our gorgeous selection to take home and make another.

Marcy Tilton Shirt

Everything you need to make this stunning designer garment is provided in this workshop including fabric, pattern and notions. We teach you all the techniques required and you could go home wearing it.

This shirt is a variation of a classic shirt, on this workshop you will learn all skills used to make a shirt plus how to insert a pleated collar, patch pocket and narrow hem.

Work with one of our cotton shirtings from a collection we carefully selected as we know they will give you a great result , learn how to select the correct interfacings before altering your pattern to fit and constructing your shirt.

We hope you will love it enough to purchase another fabric from our gorgeous selection to take home and make another.

 

Marcy Tilton Month

 This month the dressmaking workshops will all be using the wonderful designs of Marcy Tilton. Based in Oregon, USA, Marcy designs patterns for Vogue which are fabulous, wearable garments with lots of design detail.

 Marcy’s love of sewing comes through in her designs, curved seam lines, A-symmetrical hemlines, different darts and tucks, unusual pocket details and seam finishes all make for exciting original garments.

 We have chosen a mix of patterns using various fabrics so if you are looking for an unusual design, would like to learn new techniques or work with a difficult fabric there is something for everyone.

 An exciting challenging month for everyone and we are really looking forward to creating beautiful garments.

Marcy Tilton Bag

Everything you need to make this stunning designer bag is provided in this workshop including fabric, pattern and notions. We teach you all the techniques required and you could go home carrying it over your shoulder.

 During the day you will learn how to construct and line the bag and insert internal and external pockets for your bits and bobs.  Each bag will be your own creation as you will select the fabric and trims from our stocks.    All you have to do is decide whether you are going to make a large or small tote and choose the fabric.

 

Marcy Tilton Month

 This month the dressmaking workshops will all be using the wonderful designs of Marcy Tilton. Based in Oregon, USA, Marcy designs patterns for Vogue which are fabulous, wearable garments with lots of design detail.

Marcy’s love of sewing comes through in her designs, curved seam lines, A-symmetrical hemlines, different darts and tucks, unusual pocket details and seam finishes all make for exciting original garments.

 We have chosen a mix of patterns using various fabrics so if you are looking for an unusual design, would like to learn new techniques or work with a difficult fabric there is something for everyone.

 An exciting challenging month for everyone and we are really looking forward to creating beautiful garments.

 

Marcy Tilton Raincoat

Everything you need to make this stunning designer garment is provided in this workshop including fabric, pattern and notions. We teach you all the techniques required and you could go home wearing it.

Learn to work with raincoat fabric and create this stylish loose fitting coat with collar, side pockets and hemline darts. Lots of techniques to learn including buttonholes

We hope you will love it enough to purchase another fabric from our gorgeous selection to take home and make another.

 

Marcy Tilton Month

This month the dressmaking workshops will all be using the wonderful designs of Marcy Tilton. Based in Oregon, USA, Marcy designs patterns for Vogue which are fabulous, wearable garments with lots of design detail.

Marcy’s love of sewing comes through in her designs, curved seam lines, A-symmetrical hemlines, different darts and tucks, unusual pocket details and seam finishes all make for exciting original garments.

We have chosen a mix of patterns using various fabrics so if you are looking for an unusual design, would like to learn new techniques or work with a difficult fabric there is something for everyone.

An exciting challenging month for everyone and we are really looking forward to creating beautiful garments.

Marcy Tilton Skinny Trousers

Everything you need to make this stunning designer garment is provided in this workshop including fabric, pattern and notions. We teach you all the techniques required and you could go home wearing it.

On this workshop you will learn to alter your pattern before constructing these close fitting trousers. Choose from a selection of stretch fabric and construct your trousers learning how to make pleats, top stitch and insert and elastic waist.

We hope you will love it enough to purchase another fabric from our gorgeous selection to take home and make another.

Marcy Tilton Month

This month the dressmaking workshops will all be using the wonderful designs of Marcy Tilton. Based in Oregon, USA, Marcy designs patterns for Vogue which are fabulous, wearable garments with lots of design detail.

Marcy’s love of sewing comes through in her designs, curved seam lines, A-symmetrical hemlines, different darts and tucks, unusual pocket details and seam finishes all make for exciting original garments.

We have chosen a mix of patterns using various fabrics so if you are looking for an unusual design, would like to learn new techniques or work with a difficult fabric there is something for everyone.

An exciting challenging month for everyone and we are really looking forward to creating beautiful garments.

Marcy Tilton Jacket V8839

Everything you need to make this stunning designer garment is provided in this workshop including fabric, pattern and notions. We teach you all the techniques required and you could go home wearing it.

This loose fitting jacket will suit most figures and on this work shop there are lots of skills to learn.

Work with one of our stretch fabrics from a collection we carefully selected as we know they will give you a great result , alter you pattern to fit and then construct your jacket learning how to create darts, welt pockets and topstitching

We hope you will love it enough to purchase another fabric from our gorgeous selection to take home and make another.

Marcy Tilton Month

 This month the dressmaking workshops will all be using the wonderful designs of Marcy Tilton. Based in Oregon, USA, Marcy designs patterns for Vogue which are fabulous, wearable garments with lots of design detail.

 Marcy’s love of sewing comes through in her designs, curved seam lines, A-symmetrical hemlines, different darts and tucks, unusual pocket details and seam finishes all make for exciting original garments.

 We have chosen a mix of patterns using various fabrics so if you are looking for an unusual design, would like to learn new techniques or work with a difficult fabric there is something for everyone.

 An exciting challenging month for everyone and we are really looking forward to creating beautiful garments.

Marcy Tilton Tunic Tops

Everything you need to make this stunning designer garment is provided in this workshop including fabric, pattern and notions. We teach you all the techniques required and you could go home wearing it.

There are a choice of styles on this workshop - sleeveless, long or short sleeves, curved, A-symmetrical or draped hem.

Work with one of our lightweight jersey fabrics from a collection we carefully selected as we know they will give you a great result , Learn all the skills needed to work with this tricky fabric

We hope you will love it enough to purchase another fabric from our gorgeous selection to take home and make another or more.

 

Marcy Tilton Month

 This month the dressmaking workshops will all be using the wonderful designs of Marcy Tilton. Based in Oregon, USA, Marcy designs patterns for Vogue which are fabulous, wearable garments with lots of design detail.

 Marcy’s love of sewing comes through in her designs, curved seam lines, A-symmetrical hemlines, different darts and tucks, unusual pocket details and seam finishes all make for exciting original garments.

 We have chosen a mix of patterns using various fabrics so if you are looking for an unusual design, would like to learn new techniques or work with a difficult fabric there is something for everyone.

 An exciting challenging month for everyone and we are really looking forward to creating beautiful garments.

Marcy Tilton Dress

Everything you need to make this stunning designer garment is provided in this workshop including fabric, pattern and notions. We teach you all the techniques required and you could go home wearing it.

This jersey dress is semi fitted so will suit most figures and is perfect to wear all year round.

Work with one of our cotton jersey from a collection we carefully selected as we know they will give you a great result , learn to alter your pattern and how to work with jersey fabric, correct seams and hem finishes and gathering.

We hope you will love it enough to purchase another fabric from our gorgeous selection to take home and make another.

 

Marcy Tilton Month

 This month the dressmaking workshops will all be using the wonderful designs of Marcy Tilton. Based in Oregon, USA, Marcy designs patterns for Vogue which are fabulous, wearable garments with lots of design detail.

 Marcy’s love of sewing comes through in her designs, curved seam lines, A-symmetrical hemlines, different darts and tucks, unusual pocket details and seam finishes all make for exciting original garments.

 We have chosen a mix of patterns using various fabrics so if you are looking for an unusual design, would like to learn new techniques or work with a difficult fabric there is something for everyone.

 An exciting challenging month for everyone and we are really looking forward to creating beautiful garments.

All materials are included in the cost of the workshop Keeping a sketchbook is like keeping a diary but this diary is a visual record of all your ideas. We will explore a multitude of techniques and materials including collage, paint, fabric and stitch. This workshop is designed to take away the fear of the blank page! At the end of the day you will take with you the beginnings of a journal that will inspire your future work whether it is a quilt, a wall piece, a cushion or a dress. From a previous student! “Thank you so much Debs for the brilliant sketchbook day, I was so frightened! but now I can’t put it down” Marina

All materials are included in the cost of the workshop Here's where science meets the arts, left and right sides of the brain working in harmony. This is a hands on course revealing the simple science behind colour . You'll prepare your own colour wheel and so understand the concept of Hue, Value & Intensity enabling you to use these parameters to wet colour match using a range of pigments. We will also look at the effect of lighting, pigment characteristics and finally what surface you will be applying it to. This course is a perfect preparation for our colouring fabric workshop

All materials and dyes are included in the cost of the workshop. This is a true workshop of experimentation. Learn to work with procion dyes, paints and rusty nails! We will be block printing, stencilling, painting and blending. You will spend the two days working with colour on natural fabrics including cotton, silk and wool. By the end of the workshop you will go away with a sample book and the confidence to use these techniques again. All techniques are safe to use at home. You will need to be ok wearing rubber gloves and a cotton face mask for some of the work.

Create your perfect skirt; choose to make it straight or A line, short or long. You will learn everything you need to know to make it fit perfectly! A choice of wonderful linens and wools available. You will also use the overlocker to give your skirt that professional finish and learn to put in the concealed zip. You can then go on and use your pattern to make many more. This is one of the all time favourite workshops!

All thread and fabric is included in the cost of the workshop. Take your overlocker out of the box and bring it along to our Overlocking day! If you don't have one then then you can use one of ours. Learn how to thread your machine and how to set it up for finishing seams, constructing garments, decorative stitches and the perfect rolled hem. You will leave with samples and notes to give you confidence to use your overlocker for all your creative projects and the professional finish. Please when booking let us know what make your overlocker is or that you would like to use one of ours.

Please bring a packed lunch with you. There is plenty of free parking at the barn.

All materials and thread are included in the cost of the workshop. Free hand machine embroidery allows your imagination to run wild whether figurative or abstract. You will learn all the tricks of the trade including layering with thread and using dissolvable fabric. We will also create a quilted sample. Discover a real freedom in stitch and create at least 4 beautiful samplers in the process. Don’t worry about the drawing I will show you lots of ways to create wonderful images without being Da Vinci!

For this three day sewing school you can make a garment of your choice – a skirt, shirt, dress or even a jacket or a pair of jeans. Bring along your pattern and fabric and learn all the skills you need. Each day we will start with tuition and discussion on techniques, you will see examples of simple and couture finishes which you can use in your garment construction. The rest of the day will be spent working on your garment under expert guidance.

Do you have a favourite garment that you would love to recreate? On this two day workshop you will learn how to make a pattern from your garment and make up a toile for fitting. We cannot guarantee that you will have time to make the duplicate, it will very much depend on what you choose to copy. It would be best to bring along a simple garment to learn the techniques – a consultation with Claire can be arranged before the workshop.

On this 2nd part of our Overlocking Workshops you will learn to use your Overlocker to create decorative stitches. Using different threads and even fishing line, you will create samples as well as making a bag with a zip - all with your overlocker. If you would like to use one of our overlockers then you are very welcome.

A workshop where you will create samples of texture in fabric by hand yo-yo’s, crinkle fabric and bubbles! and lots of different pleats and tucks. These techniques can then be used in your own work whether it is pictures, cushions or quilts or adding detail to your clothes.

Learn this beautiful craft of painting with wax and then dying the cloth. We will use both traditional and modern techniques. Working with beautiful natural fabrics you will be able to experiment to achieve fantastic results.

All materials are included in the cost. Learn this wonderful technique, which removes areas of fabric leaving a lace like quality. Most often seen on velvet but can be also used on cottons and silks. We will be working with all these different fabrics so that you will have a range of samples by the end of the day. You will need to wear protective gloves and masks but it is safe to do at home!

All materials, pattern and notions are included in the cost of the workshop. For any of you who watched the Sewing Bee making a tie was one of the great projects. Claire ran this workshop last Christmas and all the women reported back that they were much loved! You will work with beautiful fabrics (even Dr Zeuss!) and work from a pattern by Claire ending up with a professional finish. You will have the pattern and the techniques to make many more.