How to Choose the Right Sewing Class for YOU

In the words of Clare-Louise Hardy (Great British Sewing Bee) 'Sewing is a bit like cooking - there are some basic skills you'll need to learn. Jumping into a class to make, for example, a tailored garment is like making souffle` when you've never even scrambled an egg.

If you are thinking of becoming the next Stella McCartney, then you should invest a good chunk of time and money on a long course. If your end point is to be a fashion or costume designer then you'll need a broad skills base that you can't pick up at a weekend course.

However, if you are looking to discover a new hobby, or fancy learning to sew just for the sheer pleasure, find a fabulous short workshop that will give you the start you need. Many of these classes, including my own, result in a finished project by the end of the class, giving you a real confidence boost.

Be honest with yourself about how skilled you currently are. Most classes have a list of pre-requisite skills. If you have tinkered with a sewing machine but never actually made anything, then signing up for an advance class will leave you feeling left behind and out of your depth and may well put you off sewing.

Attending a night school programme is really cost effective (in some states - research yours) way to learn. they are run with large groups, you won't get masses of individual attention, they allow you to learn slowly generally over 10 -16 weeks.

If you want a more intensive quick start to learning to sew, then short private workshops may suit you better. These can be more expensive (do your research) but are usually stand alone workshops over a couple of weeks rather than a term. They have small groups, giving you more personal attention from the tutor.

A shared passion is a great way to make friends too, classmates are likely to be local to that class too. Which increases the chance for coffee or fabric shopping trips after class.

Learning to sew will take time, so be realistic about what you'll get from your classes. In one afternoon, you'll never get that wedding dress made from scratch! Expect to make some mistakes - unpicking is part of sewing and at some point you'll have to do it!

In Darwin there is choice on where to learn sewing. So whatever you want to sew for, there is a class out there for you - it just pays to research.

Happy hunting and happy stitching

Leanne xx

Learn to Sew in the Territory

Is your sewing machine unloved? Has it been lying around the house gathering dust? Did you just receive a new machine for Christmas and want to learn how to use it?

If you have answered yes to these questions then read on! 

Is there a New Baby on the way? Do you love buying one-off handmade pieces?

Want to stand out from the crowd of K-mart, Target and Portman wearing masses?

Well STOP buying and start creating your own Treasures and Memories.  

Hi, my name is Leanne and I have a passion. I love to sew and create things. At The Sewing Room NT I offer sewing lessons, dressmaking projects, and hen's parties. When you come to The Sewing Room NT, it's just like your very clever friend teaching you and a few more friends how to sew.

Join a class and learn sewing techniques that will allow you to create beautiful and individual pieces. Garment Construction Courses and One Day Workshops with me will give you the freedom to develop these skills in a comfortable and positive environment. A maximum of 6 students per class ensures personal, attentive tuition.

If you have had a machine lying around, now is the time to make a New Year resolution and use it. Word of warning this is a very addictive hobby. I run small classes in Zuccoli, NT. Clink on the links for all available dates, times, fees etc. Students simply need to bring along their sewing machines, thread, buttons etc to the classes. 

Don't have a machine? Not sure if you want to invest in one. Want time to figure out if this hobby is for you. I have 2 machines on hand if that sounds like you. However, trust me, after a class you will be hightailing it to the nearest sew shop to purchase one for yourself - I did say THIS HOBBY IS ADDICTIVE!

Did I forget to mention that you can bring your children along. Yes, Yes I know the break away from them is a wonderful thing, the gentle hum of a sewing machine, or 4, the ability to concentrate, I mean actually concentrate, to be able to take your mind off the kidlets, to be FREE, YIPPEE!! To have excellent and sometimes downright shameful conversations with ladies who could turn out to be that friend you've been waiting to meet......Ah so many wonderful things about sewing. 

But yes you may bring your children too. 

I look forward to helping you achieve your sewing goals and, develop your love of sewing.

Leanne xo