What I Learnt at my Sewing Class, By Jennie Rigg Aged 34 1/2

[miss_s_b]

I have sadface, because today was the last day of my sewing class. I am going to miss all the girls, and I'm going to miss Angela (the tutor) too. At the beginning of the course, I had never used a sewing machine before, although I was pretty good at hand sewing. At the end of the class, I have made several items (I am wearing the pyjamas now!) and I have learned:

• Threading, basic functions, etc, on four different machines.
• changing stitch style/length/width on each of those machines
• changing needles too
• Using sewing patterns and how to translate the hieroglyphics on them
• basic alterations to sewing patterns
• Using interfacings of various types
• finishing raw edges in five different ways
• four different types of seam
• three different types of hem
• seam/hem allowances and why they are how they are and how to use them
• stay-stiching, topstitching, and various other useful techniques and when to use them
• V-necks, elasticated waist, cap sleeves, drop shoulders
• applique (my pyjama top has applique dalek and tardis on)
• various things about fitting
• how to make bias binding
• gathers, tucks & pleats

I learned all of these things hands on making real Things, and they've all turned out great, and I really loved the course, and I am totally signing up for the "advanced" course with the same tutor which starts in september. I may post proud pictures of the projects later, when I have taken them...

I figure there's not much chance of any of you living near me, but if you do, I totally recommend Angela's courses. She's a very fair and patient tutor (and you need to be to deal with me) who never stops smiling and offering useful advice. You can sign up for the next ones from half way through June, on the local council's website.