Join designer maker Lauren Holloway on improvers sewing workshop to learn how to sew with stretch fabric.

In this workshop Lauren will teach you how to sew with stretch fabrics and make your own jersey top. The jersey top embodies the essence of French maritime style. This straight cut tee has just the right amount of relaxed ease. It features a boat neckline with inside binding, and the set-in sleeves can be cut long or 3/4 length for that classic sailor sweater look.

Over the course of the day Lauren will teach the techniques and tools needed to work with materials such as jersey and knit fabrics. You will cover topics such as needle and stitch selection; learning about ballpoint and stretch needles and how they differ from standard needles and fabric types; covering the characteristics of stretch fabrics, including jersey, spandex, and ponte.

You will also explore different stitch types on your sewing machine, like zigzag and triple straight stitch, and how to adjust them for optimal stretch and seam strengthfinishing techniques using an over locker sewing machine. You will also learn how to read and assemble a printed A4 pattern.

Lauren will provide guidance on common challenges when sewing with stretch fabric and each student will get a handy information sheet to take home.

You will leave this workshop with more confidence in your ability to sew with stretch fabrics and create your own garments. You will have a timeless garment made to last.

Tutor: Lauren Holloway
Date & Time: Wednesday 11th November, 10:15am - 4:15pm
Venue: Scissors Studio, New Brewery Arts
Price: £100 (£0.00 VAT)

You are welcome to bring a lidded bottle of water with you but we kindly ask that you do not bring food into the studio.

Refreshments are available at our on-site café Blend until 4pm.

For more information:
Visit our FAQ page

Who is this workshop for?
This workshop is suitable for those at intermediate/improver level.

Knowledge of using a sewing machine is essential for this workshop. You will need to be able to thread and set up a sewing machine and feel confident sewing basic stitches.

If you don't have this experience, please try our Beginners Machine Sewing workshop first.

Please note that this workshop is for those aged 18 and over.

What you will need:
A printed pattern and binding fabric are included in this workshop.

You will need to bring 1.5 metres (140cm wide) or 2 metres (90cm wide) of light to medium weight t-shirt (stretch) jersey plus a matching thread. You must prewash your fabric ahead of the workshop.

You will need a matching polyster thread to sew the garment.

Basic haberdashery and equipment are provided.

Sewing machines can be provided, but we recommend you bring your own sewing machine if you have one - please bring a standard foot. If you have a walking foot please bring that too.

Meet Your Tutor - lauren holloway

Sewing tutor Lauren Holloway offers a range of sewing & dressmaking workshops for both adults and children from beginner to intermediate level where participants can learn the basics of using a domestic sewing machine, brush up on existing sewing skills or develop new techniques to improve their craft.

Lauren has a relaxed, patient and friendly approach in her teaching. Her workshops are a place to learn but also have fun in the process. Creating a warm, safe and encouraging space is very important, where no question is too silly to ask!

Her aim is that students feel inspired for future projects and continued learning in addition to taking home their own beautiful handmade items to be proud of.