Craft Tag: Dressmaking

Zips In Three Ways With Mercedes Ferrari-Plumridge- Sunday 13.45

90-minute workshop – cost £24.00

[Max 10 people]

Join Mercedes and learn the tips and techniques for three different methods of zip insertion. Starting with the centred zip you will then move on to the lapped zip and then finish with the invisible zip. All three methods will be useful additions to your garment and home-ware sewing.

Advisory Note:

Suitable for over 16’s only. Experience using a sewing machine would be useful.

Meet the Tutor

Mercedes Ferrari-Plumridge

Mercedes was a contestant on series 5 of the Great British Sewing Bee (2019). She lives just outside Brighton with her husband Graham and their two cats, Maggie and Erica. Having worked in IT for over 20 years and serving as a reservist for 13, Mercedes has a passion for all things technical and wants to know the ins and outs and whys of everything.  Mercedes enjoys utilising fabrics from all sources in her sewing projects while using traditional and developing new techniques.  

INTRODUCTION TO SIZING, TRACING OFF A PATTERN & PATTERN ALTERATIONS with Helen Rhiannon – 11.30

Helen will discuss sizing and why it is so difficult to get the right size in dressmaking. You will learn how to measure yourself accurately to help you with your dressmaking projects. Helen will then introduce you to using a block to help draft your own unique patterns. You will learn how to trace off a block accurately, tackle some simple fit issues along with some more advanced techniques.

This workshop is for anyone who wants to learn how to draft dress patterns for themselves. 

All materials and equipment provided for use in the class.

Advisory Note:

All ages and abilities are welcome.

Meet the Tutor

Helen Rhiannon

Helen Rhiannon is a dressmaking expert and bestselling Author. Helen has gained extensive knowledge over the last 18 years from designing and creating bespoke clothing and bridal wear. Helen has also taught sewing and dressmaking for many years, which led her to publish her new book, ‘Dressmaking The Easy Guide’.  Helen is also a regular Guest Presenter on Sewing Street TV.

Through her new book, Helen will hand hold you through the basics of dressmaking and the skills you will learn to be able to create your own beautifully fitted dress. You will be able to choose the exact size that fits and flatters you from a bespoke sizing chart, which ranges from a UK 6 – 44.