I'm passionate about empowering people to explore machine sewing. I offer an inclusive, supportive and creatively engaging learning environment where skills and confidence with using sewing machines blossom. Learning to sew changes how you approach textiles and clothing for the better, and can unlock your potential to create pieces and projects tailored specifically to you!
My courses and demonstrations are for absolute beginners, or for those who have little sewing experience. I'm happy to tailor my instruction to meet individual needs. I believe in fostering a positive and encouraging atmosphere where students feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and celebrating their progress.
My experience encompasses a wide range of sewing techniques, including garment construction, alterations, repairs, and even creative projects like knitting and embroidery. I also believe that understanding the fundamentals of fabric and textiles is vital. I give students the vocabulary and know-how in order to care for, and responsibly source fabrics or materials, and maintain their machine.
I am always exploring new techniques and trends in the world of sewing, and I'm happy to share my knowledge and passion with my students.
If you are interested in organising an introductory sewing demonstration for a group, or looking for 1on1 sewing course, feel free to contact me via the email address below or through the website contact form here.
See the demonstration and course options below.
DEMONSTRATIONS
I facilitate a two-part sewing machine demonstration, with each session an hour long. During the first demo, Complete Beginners, I walk through the basics of the sewing machine. The second demo, Introduction to Sewing, is for those who have finished the first session, or have used a machine before and want to learn a few techniques. This demonstration was previously hosted at Vibes and Scribes Craft shop in Cork City (see above).
Complete Beginners:
- Sewing Kit
- Machine Set Up and Parts (in depth)
- Threading the Machine
- Bobbin threading (2 ways)
- Prepping fabric
- How to stitch (basic settings, tips and tricks)
Introduction to Sewing:
- Sewing Kit (brief)
- Machine Set Up (brief)
- Fabric introduction and preparation
- Introductions to various seams and their applications
- How to read and use a pattern
INTRODUCTION COURSE - 4 WEEKS
I facilitate a 4 week (four 2 hour sessions) Introduction to Machine Sewing course. We look at the basics of machine sewing by means of a simple tote-bag project. This course was previously hosted at the Edinburgh Open Workshop in their Craft and Textile space (see below).
During this course we explore the following:
- How to put together a basic sewing kit
- How to thread a sewing machine
- Simple sewing exercises
- Basic design and pattern drafting
- Hand sewing and other techniques (embroidery, quilting, beading)
- Fabric printing/stamps
