Clothesmaking and Alterations Beginners

Clothesmaking & Alterations
Who is the course for?
This course is a good introduction for anyone who wants to learn to make clothes from scratch, or
to make alterations to clothing for themselves, family or friends.
It is also suitable for those who have some previous experience, and would like to further develop
their design and clothesmaking skills, with guidance from the tutor in a supportive atmosphere.
What are the entry requirements?
Anyone with an interest in making or altering clothes is welcome to join this course
What will I study?
The course will cover
how to set-up and to use a sewing machine
how to take accurate measurements and make a simple garment
alterations– make simple alterations so clothes are a better fit
how to use a commercial paper pattern, and/or learn how to create paper patterns from your favourite items of clothing, so you can recreate them
design skills – learn how to chose and work with the most appropriate types of fabric, colours and pattern
how to sew neat and accurate seams, darts and hems
How is the course taught?
The tutor will do an initial assessment (an individual learning plan) to discover your starting point, find out what you want to get out of the course, take any previous knowledge you have into account, and plan how best to support you. She will demonstrate techniques, show inspiring examples and provide hand-outs to support your learning. You will learn by experience, demonstration, group work - and practice! You will learn how to set up and use a sewing machine/overlocker safely, and how to make a simple garment.
How will I be assessed?
Your progress will be reviewed by regular feedback from the tutor, discussions, self-assessment, group and peer work as well as finished and altered garments.
By the end of the course what vocational skills will I obtain?
Sewing and alteration skills including: how to safely set up use a sewing machine; make simple alterations like shortening a hem; design skills– how to select the best type of fabric/most suitable pattern for the type of garment and person it is for; how to take accurate body measurements.
What materials do I need for the course?
Please refer to the brochure/website for full details of fees and concessions.
Pattern paper is provided, however you will need to supply your own fabrics, threads, bobbin and
other sewing equipment according to what you want to make or do. The tutor will discuss costs with you at the first session– please bring a notebook and pen with you for the first class.

Fee information

Accredited courses

Fee A

Full Fee (Full fees for courses of 15 weeks or more can be paid in two instalments. You must include the first half with your enrolment)

Fee B

If you are:

• aged 16-18 years old on an accredited course
• on Job Seeker's Allowance or on Employment Support Allowance (Work-Related Activity Group)
• unemployed and in receipt of a means tested benefit (or are dependent of someone who is unemployed and in receipt of a means tested benefit) and sign a Declaration of Intention to enter employment
• aged 19-23 studying for a first full Level 2 qualification and do not already have a full Level 2 qualification or equivalent
• aged 19-24 studying for a first full Level 3 qualification and you do not already have a full Level 3 qualification or equivalent
• studying GCSE English or maths and do not already have a grade C or above
• studying an accredited English or maths course
• studying an entry or Level 1 accredited course and are aged 19-23 and have prior attainment below full Level 2. (This does not apply to ESOL courses)
• taking part in a Family Learning activity

Fee C

Exam fees are non-refundable and payable at enrolment. In some cases exam fees are to be confirmed.

*first £40 of the exam fee applies.

Non-accredited coursesFee AFull Fee (Full fees for courses of 15 weeks or more can be paid in two instalments. You must include the first half with your enrolment).Fee BLearners who are working and are in receipt of means tested benefits other than JSA/ESA e.g. housing benefit, council tax benefit, income support or pension credit.Fee C

Learners in receipt of 'active' benefits i.e. job seekers allowance, Employment Support allowance (Work Related Activity Group).

or

Learners in receipt of wider benefits (or their unwaged dependant) e.g. council tax benefit, housing benefit, income support, pension guarantee credit who sign to declare that they are intending to enter employment.

You will be required to provide valid proof that you are entitled to receive a free course or a reduced fee at enrolment.

Fee information

Accredited courses

Fee A

Full Fee (Full fees for courses of 15 weeks or more can be paid in two instalments. You must include the first half with your enrolment)

Fee B

If you are:

• aged 16-18 years old on an accredited course
• on Job Seeker's Allowance or on Employment Support Allowance (Work-Related Activity Group)
• unemployed and in receipt of a means tested benefit (or are dependent of someone who is unemployed and in receipt of a means tested benefit) and sign a Declaration of Intention to enter employment
• aged 19-23 studying for a first full Level 2 qualification and do not already have a full Level 2 qualification or equivalent
• aged 19-24 studying for a first full Level 3 qualification and you do not already have a full Level 3 qualification or equivalent
• studying GCSE English or maths and do not already have a grade C or above
• studying an accredited English or maths course
• studying an entry or Level 1 accredited course and are aged 19-23 and have prior attainment below full Level 2. (This does not apply to ESOL courses)
• taking part in a Family Learning activity

Fee C

Exam fees are non-refundable and payable at enrolment. In some cases exam fees are to be confirmed.

*first £40 of the exam fee applies.

Non-accredited coursesFee AFull Fee (Full fees for courses of 15 weeks or more can be paid in two instalments. You must include the first half with your enrolment).Fee BLearners who are working and are in receipt of means tested benefits other than JSA/ESA e.g. housing benefit, council tax benefit, income support or pension credit.Fee C

Learners in receipt of 'active' benefits i.e. job seekers allowance, Employment Support allowance (Work Related Activity Group).

or

Learners in receipt of wider benefits (or their unwaged dependant) e.g. council tax benefit, housing benefit, income support, pension guarantee credit who sign to declare that they are intending to enter employment.

You will be required to provide valid proof that you are entitled to receive a free course or a reduced fee at enrolment.