Are you looking for a new hobby that can take you into 2025 and beyond? Or are you fed up with paying for clothes alterations which you feel you could do yourself if only you could use a sewing machine? Would you like to start making your own clothes so that you can develop your own style and not feel restricted by what’s in the shops? Are you stuck on a particular step in a dressmaking project and don’t know how to resolve it?
These are all reasons why people have contacted me in the last few months to organise 1:1 sewing and dressmaking lessons.
I have been sewing for most of my life in some shape or form and I love to share my knowledge and help others to enjoy it as much as I do. I definitely don’t know everything and I always feel like I’m still learning myself. That’s why sewing and dressmaking is such a lovely hobby to have as there is always new things to learn, new patterns to trial, different fabrics to sew with. You will never be bored again once you can use a sewing machine!
I teach sewing at beginner level and support people who have never touched a sewing machine before, to those who have done a bit of sewing and want to start dressmaking or even those who are working on beginner level projects and have become stuck and just need a bit of assistance. If you contact me about sewing lessons, I will always check exactly what you are looking for, to ensure that I can definitely help you.
Sewing Machines
Don’t worry if you don’t yet have a sewing machine, you can use mine for any lessons at no extra charge. If you do have your own and don’t mind bringing it (I know only too well how heavy most machines are!), then feel free to do that too. All of my sewing has been on modern electric machines so I’m not that familiar with vintage style Singer sewing machines. Although if you know the basics of how to use it, then we can work with that.
What can I make in a lesson?
As a complete beginner, I would recommend an envelope style cushion cover as a first project. This is a very simple design which helps you to practice sewing in a straight line, around corners and keeping to a consistent seam allowance. Moving on from there, other sewing students have made tote bags, draw string bags and then worked on more complicated projects such as a stuffed toy, patchwork quilts, dog coats and more. After the first few lessons, if you would like to continue, then I am guided by what you would like to learn and what you fancy making. I get excited by everyone’s choices and enjoy seeing people progress and be proud of what they have made.
Do you have any sewing qualifications?
No, I don’t have any formal qualifications. I have mainly learnt through trial and error and consistently practising over the years. (There aren’t that many sewing teacher qualifications out there to be honest – I have looked!) As I mentioned above, I don’t know everything but I do feel that I know enough to set beginner sewing enthusiasts off on the right track!
How much do lessons cost?
I charge £20 per hour with a minimum of a one hour booking. I ask for payment at least 24 hours in advance of the lesson.
Where do the lessons take place?
I mainly do lessons from my house in Knaresborough. I am open to discussing other locations based on individual needs but additional costs may apply in that situation.
Can I bring a friend?
I usually do 1:1 lessons but if you have a sewing friend you would like to bring along for a joint lesson, let me know and we can discuss how it would work and what you would like to learn together.
How to book?
If you are interested in booking a lesson, please email me at amy@dressbyamy.co.uk with details of what you would like to learn, how much experience you have and what your availability is. I aim to get back to you within 48 hours.
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