Teaching-Needlewitch
Learn to Sew
Learn to Sew Level 1
Time: 12 hrs. in total
COST: TBA (includes kit valued at $30.00 - totebag fabric, handles and thread, sample fabrics, dressmaking paper, assembly instructions and notes.)
Maximum 8 students
No Pre-requisite
This class is for those who have recently got a new machine or want to become comfortable using their sewing machine. You will learn what all those dials and buttons are for, how sewing machines work and the basics about fabric, needles, threads and bobbins. You will make an upmarket tote bag (or alternative course offers child's shorts) where you will learn the basics of seaming, pin stitching, top stitching, proper pressing, reinforcement stitching, an easy corner technique and use of a twin needle. Samples will also be stitched for basic seam finishes.
Learn to Sew Level 2
Time: 12 hrs. in total
COST: TBA (includes kit valued at $40.00 - apron kit, pattern, notes, trim sample pack and dressmaking paper)
Maximum 8 students
Pre-requisite Applies: Completion of LTS 1
Following on from LTS1 this course explores your machine’s functions further. You will make an adult apron (Kwik Sew 3480), learn how to make ties and sew on patch pockets professionally. You will also learn about proper application techniques for a variety of trims and sew a number of samples. Incorporating a trim or personal decorative touch into your apron is encouraged. This course is not a pre-requisite for GM1 but if you are new to sewing it is recommended you do both LTS modules before moving on to Garment Making as LTS2 covers a lot of basics in reading patterns and pattern books.
Garment Making
Garment Making – Level 1
Time: 18 hrs. in total
COST: TBA (includes kit: Simplicity pattern, sample fabrics, extensive notes and a roll of dressmaking paper)
Maximum 8 students
Pre Requisite Applies: Completion of LTS 1 (exemptions may apply - sufficient sewing experience will suffice)
Note: Whilst in all other levels a different male pattern is available this is not the case for GM1 - a male student may choose to make the skirt for someone else. Plus size pattern available.
This course is the introduction to garment making and will teach you how to make a wrap skirt.. Includes basic fitting adjustments for length and a simple hem and facing finish. Learn more about needles, threads, haberdashery and pressing tools. Learn how to take correct measurements and how to get the most from reading pattern books, envelopes and instructions. Stitch a variety of hem and seam samples before using them in your garment.
Garment Making – Level 2
Time: 18 hrs. in total
COST: TBA (includes kit: pattern, elastic and notes)
Maximum 8 students
Pre Requisite Applies: Completion of GM 1
NOTE: Alternative patterns are available for plus sizes and male students
Following on from BGM 1 this course will teach you how to make pyjama pants with an elasticised/drawstring waist, contrast cuffs and piping. Includes basic fitting adjustments - hip/waist, length and crotch). Learn about the calculation of ease in a garment (the start point for all pattern alterations) to make sure you never make up an incorrect size again. Also learn about the different types of elastic, how to sew and where to use them.
Garment Making – Level 3
Time: 24 hrs. in total
COST: TBA includes kit valued at $30.00 - Kit includes pattern and sample kits for interfacings, darts, zip, blind hems and couture seam finishes.
Maximum 8 students
Pre Requisite Applies: Completion of GM 2
NOTE: Alternative patterns are available for plus sizes and male students
Following on from GM 2 this course includes learning how to sew darts properly, couture seam finishes (French, Flat fell and my personal version of a Hong Kong finish), a lapped zip and blind hem. You will learn about the different types of interfacing - where to use which type and how to apply it properly, a few tricks for working with linings, how to ease on a waistband properly and you will be shown the wide variety of pressing tools available with some detailed demonstrations. You will make a fully lined A-line skirt with a lapped zip and fitted waistband.
Garment Making – Level 4
Time: 24 hrs. in total
COST: TBA (includes kit valued at $50.00 - includes pattern, 2.5m of 150cm wide toile fabric or 4.5m of 120cm wide fabric, collar sample pack and a roll of dressmaking paper)
Maximum 6 students
Pre-requisite Applies: Completion of GM 3
NOTE: Alternative patterns are available for plus sizes and male students
This is the foundation unit for all patternmaking and fitting techniques. It teaches you how to make a toile in order to fit a garment correctly. Start building a techniques workbook for shoulder, back, bust and arm adjustments. Learn basic dart manipulation and how to use a French curve and pattern making ruler properly. You will do a basic figure analysis and start to learn how to fit your figure. You will stitch a sample for an easy collar technique. The pattern to be fitted is a collared semi fitted shirt but you will not work on the final garment in class as the aim is to get an accurately fitting toile and adjusted pattern.
PLEASE NOTE:THIS CLASS INVOLVES THE MAJORITY OF SEWING FOR TWO TOILES BEING DONE AT HOME BETWEEN CLASSES. IF THE SEWING IS INCOMPLETE YOUR TOILE WILL NOT BE FITTED CORRECTLY AND NO LIABILITY FOR AN UNFINISHED FITTED GARMENT/PATTERN WILL BE ACCEPTED. THE CLASS INCLUDES TWO TOILE FITTINGS – IF THE STUDENT REQUIRES MORE FITTINGS DUE TO BODY FITTING ISSUES THEN A HEAVILY DISCOUNTED RATE WILL APPLY FOR ANY SUBSEQUENT PERSONAL FITTING APPOINTMENTS.
Garment Making – Level 5
Time: 18 hrs. in total
COST: TBA includes kit valued at $40.00 -- includes pattern, 2.5m of 150cm wide toile fabric or 4.5m of 120cm wide fabric, elastic for the sample and a roll of dressmaking paper)
Maximum 6 students
Pre-requisite Applies: Completion of GM4
NOTE: Alternative patterns are available for plus sizes and male students
This series of classes includes making patterns and samples for a variety of pocket styles and elastic application techniques. Add to your techniques workbook with samples for sway back, prominent stomach, crotch issues and flat/prominent bottom adjustment techniques. The garment to be fitted is a pair of semi fitted casual trouser/pants with pocket features.
PLEASE NOTE: THIS CLASS INVOLVES THE MAJORITY OF SEWING FOR TWO TOILES BEING DONE AT HOME BETWEEN CLASSES. IF THE SEWING IS INCOMPLETE YOUR TOILE WILL NOT BE FITTED CORRECTLY AND NO LIABILITY FOR AN UNFINISHED FITTED GARMENT/PATTERN WILL BE ACCEPTED. THE CLASS INCLUDES TWO TOILE FITTINGS – IF THE STUDENT REQUIRES MORE FITTINGS DUE TO BODY FITTING ISSUES THEN A HEAVILY DISCOUNTED RATE WILL APPLY FOR ANY SUBSEQUENT PERSONAL FITTING APPOINTMENTS.
Garment Making - Level 6
Time: 24 hrs in total
COST: TBA
Maximum six students
Pre-requisite Applies: Completion of GM5
Note: Alternative patterns are available for plus sizes and male students
This series of classes is focussed on working with linings - it Includes how to draft lining patterns if none are included in the pattern and you will assemble a work sheet on various linings and their properties. You will also complete an invisible zip sample and learn how to apply hooks and eyes and lining keepers correctly. Add to your fitting workbook with more adjustments for busts, shoulders, backs and bottoms. Garment: Lined semi fitted or fitted skirt or lined sleeveless shift dress.
PLEASE NOTE: THIS CLASS INVOLVES THE MAJORITY OF SEWING FOR TWO TOILES BEING DONE AT HOME BETWEEN CLASSES. IF THE SEWING IS INCOMPLETE YOUR TOILE WILL NOT BE FITTED CORRECTLY AND NO LIABILITY FOR AN UNFINISHED FITTED GARMENT/PATTERN WILL BE ACCEPTED. THE CLASS INCLUDES TWO TOILE FITTINGS – IF THE STUDENT REQUIRES MORE FITTINGS DUE TO BODY FITTING ISSUES THEN A HEAVILY DISCOUNTED RATE WILL APPLY FOR ANY SUBSEQUENT PERSONAL FITTING APPOINTMENTS.
Garment Making - Level 7
Time: 24 hrs. in total
COST: TBA
Maximum six students
Pre-Requisite Applies: Completion of GM6
Note: Alternative patterns are available for plus sizes and male students
This level includes techniques for working with specialty sheers and slippery fabrics - silks, satins, chiffons. Slippery fabrics will be examined in detail and working techniques and finishing treatments explained. A cuff sample will be sewn with tips and techniques being given. Add to your fitting workbook with more adjustments for busts, necks, arms, shoulders and backs. Garment: Loose Fitting Over shirt with collar, cuffs and front buttoned placket in a specialty fabric.
PLEASE NOTE: THIS CLASS INVOLVES THE MAJORITY OF SEWING FOR TWO TOILES BEING DONE AT HOME BETWEEN CLASSES. IF THE SEWING IS INCOMPLETE YOUR TOILE WILL NOT BE FITTED CORRECTLY AND NO LIABILITY FOR AN UNFINISHED FITTED GARMENT/PATTERN WILL BE ACCEPTED. THE CLASS INCLUDES TWO TOILE FITTINGS – IF THE STUDENT REQUIRES MORE FITTINGS DUE TO BODY FITTING ISSUES THEN A HEAVILY DISCOUNTED RATE WILL APPLY FOR ANY SUBSEQUENT PERSONAL FITTING APPOINTMENTS.
Advanced Garment Making - Level 1
Time: 24 hrs in total
COST: TBA
Maximum six students
Pre-requisite Applies: Completion of GM7
Note: alternative patterns are available for plus sizes - no male pattern available
In this advanced class you will make and fit a toile for a fitted and fully lined formal dress in a specialty luxury fabric with sleeves. Garment production will commence although the garment may not be fully finished in class you will be given all the techniques to do so at home. Garment: fitted and fully lined Formal Outfit.
PLEASE NOTE: THIS CLASS INVOLVES THE MAJORITY OF SEWING FOR TWO TOILES BEING DONE AT HOME BETWEEN CLASSES. IF THE SEWING IS INCOMPLETE YOUR TOILE WILL NOT BE FITTED CORRECTLY AND NO LIABILITY FOR AN UNFINISHED FITTED GARMENT/PATTERN WILL BE ACCEPTED. THE CLASS INCLUDES TWO TOILE FITTINGS – IF THE STUDENT REQUIRES MORE FITTINGS DUE TO BODY FITTING ISSUES THEN A HEAVILY DISCOUNTED RATE WILL APPLY FOR ANY SUBSEQUENT PERSONAL FITTING APPOINTMENTS.
Advanced Garment Making - Level 2
Time: 24 hrs in total
COST: TBA
Maximum six students
Pre-requisite Applies: Completion of GM6
Note: alternative patterns are available for plus sizes and male students
In this class make a fitted and partially or fully lined pair of trousers – including samples for relevant fly front zips and information on the variety of pant leg hems and silhouettes.
Advanced Garment Making - Level 3
Time: 24 hrs in total
COST: TBA
Maximum six students
Pre-requisite Applies: Completion of GM6
Note: alternative patterns are available for plus sizes and male students - please note male students pattern is not for a tailored jacket.
Make a fitted and fully lined jacket or coat – including samples for shawl and notched collars, welt pockets, self made shoulder pads and buttonhole treatments. Garment: Fitted and Fully Lined Jacket or Coat.
Other Classes
Over locker Basics and Techniques
Time: 6 hrs. in total
COST: TBA includes kit valued at $15.00
Maximum 6 students
No Pre-Requisites
Learn about the parts of your overlocker, basic care and maintenance, conquer threading with a great tip for threading that pesky lower looper, understand basic tension problems and the use of your differential feed capability. Learn how to finish the ends of seams, corners, curves, gathering and working with sheers, knits and stretch fabrics. Learn the troubleshooting basics and walk away with a workbook of samples and settings for your machine. Suitable for 3, 4 and 5 thread overlockers with tension discs and differential feed. This class is not suitable for Baby lock ATD machines. COVERSTITCH capability is not covered in this class.
PLEASE NOTE: IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT YOUR MACHINE IS IN WORKING ORDER - I.E. IT IS NEW OR HAS BEEN SERVICED WITHIN THE LAST 18 MONTHS. IF YOUR MACHINE IS INCOMPLETE OR MALFUNCTIONS THE TEACHER/SHOP DOES NOT HAVE THE TIME OR THE MECHANICAL EXPERIENCE NECESSARY TO FIX IT AND YOUR MONEY WILL NOT BE REFUNDED - YOU ARE WELCOME TO REMAIN IN THE CLASS AND TAKE NOTES. THIS STATEMENT HAS BECOME NECESSARY DUE TO THE LARGE NUMBER OF PEOPLE WHO HAVE TURNED UP WITH INCOMPLETE OR MALFUNCTIONING OVERLOCKERS. THE SHOP CAN REFER YOU TO A SUITABLE MECHANIC - MOST SERVICING LEAD TIMES ARE 1-2 WEEKS.
Over locker Fancy Finishes
Time: 5 hrs. in total
COST: TBA includes kit and thread hire valued at $30.00
Maximum 6 students
Pre-requisite Applies: Completion of Over Locker Basics and Techniques
Moving on from the basics class we will cover roll hem techniques (including a lettuce edge) on different fabrics. Learn about and play with a variety of specialist threads and techniques and experiment with flat locking and decorative wide and narrow overlock stitches. You will add more sample sheets to your workbook. Suitable for 3, 4 and 5 thread overlockers with differential feed. This class is not suitable for Baby lock ATD machines. COVERSTITCH capability is not covered in this class.
Basic Stretch Course
Time: 10 hrs. in total (best over two days)
COST: TBA includes kit valued at $45.00 - pattern, 1.5m Scuba fabric (ponte weight), elastic, thread, steam a seam, 2 xwooly nylon threads (if using overlocker or equivalent in sewing thread)dressmaking paper and notes.
Maximum 8 students
Pre-Requisite Applies: Overlocker Basics and Techniques if using an overlocker or GM2 preferred if using a sewing machine
You will make a maxi skirt with a separate cased waistband (the skirt can be altered to any length in class) based on New Look pattern 6288. You will have to trace off and adjust your pattern (calculating ease) with assistance. You will learn how to work in knits and stretch and the differences between these types of fabrics. You will get a comprehensive information sheet on elastics building on what you learnt in my beginner’s class. Specialist stretch and knit sewing techniques, haberdashery and threads will be discussed in detail. Depending on adjustments needed the class MAY be shown basic shortening and lengthening, hip and waist adjustments. Sway back, prominent and flat bottoms and stomachs adjustment and be shown how to pivot a skirt panel to increase or decrease fullness.
NOTE: This class is designed to use both your sewing machine and overlocker. (Just bring your overlocker if that is what you have) It can be completed just using a sewing machine but it will take you longer and you may not finish your skirt in class.
Workshop Series: Custom Panties Course
Time: 6.5 hrs. in total
Cost: TBA - includes kit valued at $65.00 - Pattern - classic cut, high leg, bikini etc, 0.5m viscose spandex in colour choice, stretch lace, elastic and thread.
Maximum 8 students
Pre-requisite Applies: Completion of Basic Stretch Course
This workshop will include pattern alterations for crotches, bottoms and tummies (as necessary) and lots of tips for working with stretch and knit fabrics, lingerie elastics and laces.
***Please Note:The fabric needs to be picked up and prewashed before class.
Workshop Series: Performance Costumes (Leotard/Swimwear)
Time: 10 hrs. in total (best over a weekend)
COST: TBA includes kit valued at $75.00 includes 1m lycra in colour choice, Kwik Sew pattern, dressmaking paper, two reels of woolly nylon thread (or equivalent sewing thread, 1m leg elastic, 1m fold over elastic, notes and matching thread.
Maximum 8 students
Pre-requisite Applies: Completion of Basic Stretch Course for everyone and Overlocker Basics and Techniques (if using an overlocker) - or you will you need to be extremely comfortable with your overlocker - you will need to be able to convince Bernadette of this!
Learn How to read a specialist stretch pattern including markings and instructions. Correct Measuring, size selection and the differences between one way, two way and four way stretch. How to trace, lay, cut and mark a pattern on stretch fabric - including some basic alterations. Assembly/pinning techniques and different types of elastics for performance costumes and how to apply them (includes use of fold over elastic). Topstitching Techniques and Stitching on Stretch Trims.
Workshop Series: Decoration for Performance Costumes
Time: 5 hrs. in total
COST: TBA includes kit valued at $25.00 - lycra sample squares. sequins, beads and Hot fix Swarovski crystals sample pack, notes. Includes use of suitable glue and Bejeweller Embellishment tool in class.
Maximum 8 students
No Pre-Requisites.
Decoration techniques including Swarovski hot fix crystals and the use of a Be jeweller and basic hand sewing/glue techniques for beads and sequins.
Workshop Series: Machine Embroidery Basics
Time: 5 hrs. in total
COST: TBA includes a sample kit valued at $12.00 and notes
Maximum 8 students
No Pre-Requisite
This class is for those who have recently purchased an embroidery machine and need a basic overview of embroidery machines and designs, different types of stabilisers and when and how to use them, hooping techniques, choosing threads, bobbinfill and needles, tension, fabrics (including knits), troubleshooting, maintenance and some basics on positioning designs. Some demonstration will be done on a Janome machine, but your machines are not required for this class.
Workshop Series: Basic Alterations
Time: 6 hrs. in total
COST: TBA includes Sample Kit and Notes ($25.00)
Maximum 6 students
Pre-Requisite Applies: Basic Sewing Skills
This workshop assumes you know to thread your sewing machine correctly, select stitches and alter width and length and can sew basic seams. You will be advised on the different types of needles and threads to use and what tools are necessary for a basic sewing kit. You will be shown how to pin and measure basic hems correctly and be advised on different trouser lengths for shoes and boots. You will be shown how to sew different skirt/dress hems and how to hem jeans. You will learn about basic buttonhole techniques, how to open buttonholes safely and how to use a twin needle. You will complete samples for a jeans hem, false hem, double roll hems, overcast hem, twin needle finish; a buttonhole and sewing on a holed and a shanked button by hand.
Workshop Series: Basic Alterations 2
Time: 5 hrs. in total
Cost: TBA includes kit valued at $15.00
Maximum 6 students
Pre-Requisite Applies: Basic Alterations or Good Sewing Skills
This workshop assumes you have good sewing skills. You will be shown how to level, pin and measure skirt and dress hems correctly using a skirt marker (you will need to be able to kneel). You will complete a sample for a lightweight blind hem and a rolled hem, You will bring your own garment for the hem to be levelled and then hem it if time permits. You will complete buttonhole samples and learn how to sew a button on by machine.
Workshop Series: Pattern Hacks Level 1
Time: 5 hrs. in total
COST: TBA includes kit valued at $12.00 per student.
Maximum 6 students
Pre-requisite Applies: Basic Sewing Skills – you need to understand how to use a sewing pattern
During this class we will conduct a figure analysis of everyone in the class – we will be discussing everyone’s fitting issues in a sympathetic manner in a small group environment. You will learn how to measure a body correctly, how to lengthen and shorten patterns properly to maintain proportion (tops and bottoms), shoulder slope alterations, neckline “gaposis” alterations and waist increases and decreases. You will get detailed notes and work on scale patterns plus lots of tips and tricks along the way.
Workshop Series: Pattern Hacks - Necklines
Time: 5 hrs. in total
COST: TBA includes Notes and Scaled Sample Kits ($5.00)
Maximum 8 students
Pre-Requisite Applies: Completion of any Fitting Levels in the Needlewitch Program or Competent Dressmaking/Pattern Alteration Skills
This class includes a demonstration on a sewing machine but there is no need to bring your machine.
You will cover patternmaking alterations for various neckline issues and complete further scale samples for your fitting workbook. Bernadette will discuss issues associated with necklines in purchased garments and suggest some techniques/alterations to fix the problems (this includes reshaping). Techniques will cover both knit and woven fabrics.
Workshop Series: Binding and Rouleau
Time: 3 hrs. in total
COST: TBA includes Sample Kit and Notes ($15.00)
Maximum 6 students
Pre-Requisite Applies: Any Garment Production Level in the Needlewitch Program or Competent Sewing Skills
You will cover the use of bias binding makers and binding feet. Learn what fabrics are best for binding, how to make your own binding and bias rouleau straps, how to join binding, and some ideas for using binding and rouleau in nonstandard ways. You will stitch a few samples yourself – if you have a binding foot please bring it with you but it is not required for all samples.
Workshop Series: Getting the most from your machine feet – Buttonhole and Button Sewing Feet
Time: 3 hrs. in total
COST: TBA includes Sample Kit and Notes ($15.00)
Maximum 6 students
No. Pre-Requisite
Feet covered include the button hole foot (including the different types of buttonholes and when to use them) and the button foot (how to sew on a button by machine). You will also be shown how to make a thread shank by machine and by hand and correct techniques for sewing on buttons for various fabrics. You will stitch several buttonhole samples depending on how many your machine includes.
Workshop Series: Getting the most from your machine feet – Rolled Hem, Beading and Cording Feet
Time: 3 hrs. in total
COST: TBA includes Notes ($5.00)
Maximum 8 students
No. Pre-Requisite
This class includes demonstration on a sewing machine but there is no need to bring your machine. The machine used for demonstration will be a Janome, but the techniques can be used on all machines.
Feet covered include: the rolled hem foot (3 sizes), pin tuck foot, cording foot. Learn how to make tiny and neat rolled hems on lightweight and slippery fabrics, how to make your own braid and how to apply beading and cord – including a nifty corner application technique.
ABN 43 950 367 267