Learn tips and techniques to make your home sewing look more professional. Do your seams look wrinkled or puckered? Do your facings refuse to lie flat, and are you tired of wonky zips – or do you even avoid zips altogether? Yes? – Then this is the course to help you raise your sewing game. I’ve observed a few areas that many home dressmakers where commonly struggle, and rolled them all up into this 3-day course. It will teach you loads more tips and tricks to improve the fit and finish of your home dressmaking projects and avoid that ‘homemade’ look that is the downfall of many sewing projects. Through a series of tutorials, and practical sessions, you’ll be working samples of each technique, so you can practise the skills learnt in that session. We’ll start with getting the groundwork right. How to choose the best size of pattern, and making some common adjustments for a perfect fit. Then I’ll teach you the lingo of pattern terminology. I’ll show you how to improve the appearance of your seams with pressing and trimming, and adding the WOW factor with perfectly straight and even topstitching. Darts, interfacing, buttonholes, zips, sleeves and waistbands are covered too. Each session expands on the skills learnt in the previous one, building your knowledge and technical ability over the three days (18 hours in total). By the end of the course, you’ll have a library of new techniques at your fingertips to take home so your sewing will be more ‘high end’ than ‘high street’. Artisan Stitch won a Certificate of Excellence in January 2019 and is rated ‘Best sewing classes in Edinburgh’. Further UK Enterprise and Business Prestige awards have followed every year since. Who is this aimed at? Novice dressmakers who’d like to further their skills Home dressmakers who’d like to achieve a better fit and finish to their home sewing projects You must have had some dressmaking experience and be familiar with using commercial paper patterns and basic garment construction What will I learn? How to choose the best size(s) of pattern to achieve a good fit Understanding pattern terminology How to do some common pattern alterations Learn different seam types and when to use them How to take up hems Neatening and finishing techniques Edge stitching and top stitching to add impact Perfect darts Make machined buttonholes and sew on buttons How to sew in a concealed zip Avoid stretched necklines Choosing and using interfacing How to make facings lie flat Setting in a sleeve There will also be time for a question and answer session so if there’s anything you’d like to know that isn’t covered above, then please let me know and I’ll try to include it if there’s time. Course arrangements The classes run from 10am to 5pm each day. There will be a break for lunch, and opportunities for short breaks throughout the day. Sewing machines are provided or you can bring your own if you have one. Please remember your power cable/foot control, spare needles, feet, instruction manual You will need: 1.5m of medium-weight calico (180gsm), 30cm of lightweight interfacing, a 9" concealed zip (not a standard skirt zip), thread. Also your basic sewing kit of: fabric shears, paper scissors and small trimming/embroidery scissors, pins, tape measure (cm), chalk pencils or fabric marking pens, notebook. Travel, meals and accommodation are not included.

The Beginners intensive sewing course for adults will teach you all the foundation skills to launch you into the world of sewing. It is a good starting point to learn expert sewing techniques whether you want to progress into dressmaking, soft furnishing or craft projects. Course Description Starting at the very beginning with how to use a sewing machine, each session expands on the skills learnt in the previous one, building your knowledge, technical ability and confidence over the three days (18 hours in total). You’ll learn how to understand sewing machines and be competent and confident in using one. I’ll explain what the different presser feet are for and you’ll learn how to handle, measure and cut a variety of fabrics, interfacing, interlining, and tackle common fastenings such as buttons, zips and velcro. The course is composed of a series of tutorials, each followed by a lovely project so you can practise the skills learnt in that session. Artisan Stitch won a Certificate of Excellence in January 2019 and is rated ‘Best sewing classes in Edinburgh’. Who is this aimed at? Absolute Beginners (if you’ve never used a sewing machine before) Novice sewists (if you’ve recently learned and would like to fill in some gaps and learn a bit more) Lapsed sewists (as a refresher course if you haven’t sewn for a while) (Adults only – children’s classes are listed in the ‘Kids’ section of the website What will I learn? How to use a sewing machine safely and confidently How to wind bobbins and how to thread a sewing machine how to sew perfect straight lines, smooth curves and turn corners understand the importance of correct thread tension different stitch types, lengths and widths learn different seam types and when to use them how to deal with raw edges how to take up hems make machined buttonholes and sew on buttons how to sew in a zip Four great sewing projects to practice your new skills: A tote bag An envelope cushion with buttons Padded I-pad/tablet cover A zipped make-up bag

This dressmaking course will teach your child how to make his/her own unique clothes that fit perfectly. They'll also be able to improve their sewing techniques. Make an on-trend dungaree dress (please contact me for a boy's option) Level: The student should be confident using a sewing machine, be able to sew accurate seam allowances, and have made 2 or 3 small craft projects. Teens' Dressmaking Course description Learn how to understand commercial paper patterns and how to find the best size. During this course, I'll be focussing on teaching techniques so the clothes won't look 'Homemade', but 'Handmade'. Who is this aimed at? Suggested age 12-15 years. Dressmaking is about the garment construction techniques; not learning to sew from outset. Participants should already be able to use a sewing machine confidently, have had practice making at least one or two craft projects, and have an awareness of basic seams and hems. What will your child learn? I’ll coach her/him along the way in the following: How to choose an appropriate pattern for their level of ability (I'll provide a suitable pattern) Taking measurements, cutting and fitting the pattern, understanding pattern markings and instructions Altering the pattern for a perfect fit Sewing tips and techniques to achieve a professional finish Dressmaking Course arrangements A small class size ensures I'm able to give each student lots of individual attention. Students work on their own project, and I tailor their tuition accordingly. They will need to bring their own fabric (I'll give you some suggestions when you book) matching thread, and interfacing, required to complete the project. They will also need a basic sewing kit of fabric shears, paper scissors, small sharp embroidery scissors for trimming, tape measure (marked in cm), chalk pencils/fabric marking pens and pins. Sewing machines are available in the studio.

Join us for a 1-day Tote bag workshop hosted by Artisan Stitch with guest tutor, Oskar from Oskar’s Bespoke Bag Maker. In this hands-on session, you'll be guided step by step to create a classic tote bag—an excellent introduction to bag-making. You'll also learn how to install a zip and attach leather straps, adding a stylish, professional touch to your design. Tote bag Workshop with Oskar – Class description Please read the entire course description and the terms and conditions before booking. Once purchased, tickets are non-refundable. Ensure you have entered your information correctly. You will receive an automatic booking confirmation e-mail giving the dates and times of your class(es). You should save this e-mail and add the event to your phone’s calendar. A Bag in a Day: Gain satisfaction from completing a classic tote bag in a single day under Oskar’s step-by-step guidance. Combination of Textiles and Leather: Develop your skills in textiles and learn leather attachment techniques using various tools. Zip Application: Master the technique of inserting a zip, ensuring a secure and polished finish that enhances both functionality and style. Structuring: Understand the importance of firmness and durability in bag making. Learn how to select and use the right interlining for your projects for maintaining the shapes. This 1-day workshop will focus on construction only. Students select their fabric choices prior to the class, and all materials will be pre-cut and ready for you. Who is this workshop aimed at? Intermediate sewists. You should have confident sewing skills and be able to sew straight accurate seams and hems. Tote bag Features Measurement: 19”w (top width) x 15”w (bottom width) x 13”h x 4”d Printed fabric of your choice Genuine leather straps (shoulder length with 11” drop) YKK zip 2 x Open pockets Protective style-vil foam interlining Black cotton lining What is included in the fee? All materials, sewing machines, tools and equipment required will be provided during the class. Fabric Choices Please confirm your fabric choices with Oskar through Whatsapp/email at least 1 week prior to the class. If you wish to use your own fabric(s), please let Oskar know in advanced for arrangement. All fabrics need to be pre-cut prior to the class due to the time constraints. What do I need to bring? Notebook and pen if you would like to take notes Packed lunch and non-spill drinks A tote bag/carry bag for carrying your finished project You are welcome to bring your own sewing machine. If you do, remember the power cable/foot control and bobbins. About Oskar Oskar holds a diploma in Fashion & Textile Design and worked as costume designer for theatre in both Ireland and Hong Kong for six years. In 2017, he founded an online brand Oskar’s Bespoke Bag Maker to provide bespoke bag-making service. Since 2019, he has been running over 100 bag-making workshops for over 500 students with 100% completion rate. In 2022, Oskar relocated to Edinburgh and continued to follow his passion of bag-making and sharing experience through workshops. He works in a renowned Scottish Tailors & Kilt makers which holds Royal Appointments as to HM King Charles III and HRH The Prince of Wales.

Kids' Summer Sewing Camps (mornings or afternoons) are the perfect way for kids aged 8-11 to explore the exciting world of sewing! It's a fun, creative, and educational activity for your child this summer. Over three engaging sessions (2 hours per day), children will learn basic machine and hand-sewing skills while developing confidence, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. Why Sewing for Children? Sewing is not just a practical life skill—it’s an adventure in creativity and self-expression! At our Kids' Summer Sewing Camps, children will: Build Essential Skills – Learn how to safely use a sewing machine, sew straight lines and curves, and understand basic construction techniques. Boost Creativity – Experiment with fabric, colours, and textures to make fun projects they’ll be proud to show off. Develop Focus & Patience – Following step-by-step instructions helps strengthen concentration and perseverance. Improve Coordination & Motor Skills – Using a sewing machine and handling fabric enhances hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills. Learn Eco-Awareness – By making their own items, children gain an appreciation for sustainable fashion, reducing waste, and valuing handmade over mass-produced goods. Enjoy Social Interaction – Working alongside peers in a fun, relaxed setting helps build friendships and teamwork skills. Why Choose Artisan Stitch? Artisan Stitch has over a decade of experience in providing award-winning sewing tuition, with a reputation for high-quality instruction in a welcoming and supportive environment. Our classes are designed to nurture creativity while ensuring children feel safe, encouraged, and capable. With expert guidance, they’ll gain skills that last a lifetime while having loads of fun! No prior sewing experience is needed, and all materials are provided. As spaces are limited book early to secure your child’s spot!

Dressmaking Techniques: Beyond the Basics. Take your dressmaking skills to the next level with our 3-day Summer School course. Perfect for experienced sewists, this course focuses on mastering more advanced ladieswear construction techniques. Designed as a follow-on from our “Dressmaking Techniques” or “Better Dressmaking” courses, it’s also ideal for anyone with prior experience looking to enhance their technical skills. Throughout the course, you’ll work on perfecting essential dressmaking methods, creating individual samples, relieving the pressure to complete a whole garment. This focused approach allows you to fully understand and confidently apply each technique in future projects. Topics include: Cuffs and Sleeve Plackets: Explore various sleeve placket styles and practice adding a cuff with precision. Revere Collars: Master the construction of this timeless design, perfect for blouses and jackets. Zip Fly Construction: Master the process for a clean and professional finish. Ladies’ Shirt Collars: Learn how to sew a professional 2-piece collar for a polished finish. Welt (Jetted) Pockets and Bound Buttonholes: Tackle these complex but rewarding techniques with expert guidance. Front Hip Pockets: Add style and functionality to skirts and trousers. if time permits. If not, you’ll receive notes on the technique. While the course is structured, we adapt to the group’s pace to ensure everyone gains a thorough understanding of each technique. If time is limited, we’ll prioritize advanced skills, such as welt pockets and bound buttonholes, while providing additional resources for practicing unfinished techniques at home. By the end of the course, you’ll have a collection of polished samples and the confidence to apply these methods to your own dressmaking projects. Each session includes demonstrations, step-by-step guidance, and plenty of time for questions. This course is perfect for experienced sewists ready to refine their craft and connect with a community of like-minded enthusiasts. Spaces are limited, so reserve your spot today to take your dressmaking skills beyond the basics! If this sounds too advanced for you, then you may want to try ‘Better Dressmaking’ for the foundation garment-construction techniques such as sewing perfect darts, inserting a concealed zip, adding a waistband, etc. Sewing machines can be provided if you’re not bringing your own. Remember your power cable/foot control, instruction manual and spare bobbins. What you’ll need: Your basic sewing kit comprising fabric shears, paper scissors, small embroidery scissors for fine trimming, pins, fabric marking pencils/pens, a tape measure and 30cm ruler. (These items are not provided but most are for sale in my studio shop if you don’t have them) Two metres of plain fabric (i.e. not printed) for your samples: Calico, curtain lining or sheeting is good. Check your local charity shop or scrap store before buying new. 1/2 metre lightweight soft handle fusible interfacing 70-90cm wide.

Explore your creativity with this brand new 3-day Summer School Course to explore Free-Motion Embroidery. Aimed at helping you explore your creativity, you'll discover that sewing isn't just about taking up hems. Even if you've never done any 'textiles' or art before, these fun classes will teach you how to be creative in Textile Art. No drawing needed! (Adults 16 years +) The Joy of Stitch - Course description Please read the entire course description and all the other information given on this page and check here before booking. Once purchased, tickets are non-refundable. Ensure you have entered your information correctly. You will receive an automatic booking confirmation e-mail giving the dates and times of your class(es). You should save this e-mail and add the event to your phone's calendar. The Joy of Stitch: Adventures in Free-Motion Embroidery will give you the basic skills you'll need to be creative in fabric. Day 1: Free-Motion Embroidery. I'll show you basic and advanced FME techniques to create patterns and textures, building up to creating a stitched picture. Day 2: Further opportunities to use FME to produce decorative items. You'll make a decorative stitched panel for either a zipped pouch, small bag or cushion. You can incorporate fabric scraps to give surface texture and pattern if you wish. Day 3: Working with Dissolvable fabrics. Create a piece of art from thread and thin air! At least it will seem like it! I'll show how to use various types of dissolvable fabrics to make a bowl, small wearable scarf, or a stitched picture. Who is 'The Joy of Stitch' aimed at? The Joy of Stitch: Adventures in Free-Motion Embroidery is ideal if you are exploring textile art for the first time and want to find a focus for your creativity. It's also ideal if you've been doing traditional quilting and would like to break out into something less formal, or if you're a Beginner Quilter and would like to learn Free-Motion Quilting and other textile skills to your repertoire. Level: Previous Free-Motion Embroidery experience is not required, but you must have competent sewing machine skills gained from my Beginner Sewing Course XL or similar. Adults 16 years + Course arrangements You will need: your basic sewing kit comprising fabric shears, and small embroidery scissors with fine sharp points, pins. your sewing machine plus a Free-Motion Embroidery foot, also known as a darning foot, or borrow one of my machines. If you're bringing your own, remember the power cable/foot control and spare bobbins. A full list of materials will be provided when you book. There will be a break for lunch everyday and you can take short breaks whenever you need. Travel, accommodation and meals are not included.

Print Collage Stitch is a 3-day creative textiles workshop for my Summer School programme to celebrate the beauty of nature. Learn how to print your own collage materials then turn them into an Art Quilt. No drawing needed! (Adults 16 years +) Course description Please read the entire course description and all the other information given on this page and check here before booking. Once purchased, tickets are non-refundable. Ensure you have entered your information correctly. You will receive an automatic booking confirmation e-mail giving the dates and times of your class(es). You should save this e-mail and add the event to your phone’s calendar. Print Collage Stitch is a three-day workshop to show you how to make your own unique art quilts from gelli prints. What is an Art Quilt? Shhhh, don’t tell the Quilt Police but there’s no meticulous cutting and piecing required in Art Quilting, it doesn’t need to have wadding, be ‘bed-sized’, nor does it even have to be bound. It’s basically “any creative work that is layered and stitched”. In plain speak, it’s a fabric collage. If you’d like to have a go at quilting but have been put off by all the rules and complicated maths, then this is the perfect quilting workshop for you. The suggested size will be around 30cm x 40cm (roughly A3) or 40cm x 40cm square format, however longer ‘accordian’ or ‘Artist Book’ formats work well too. It can be as simple or as complex as you like (or at least as the three days allow if your aim is to complete it in the time available). You can add hand stitching, and other embellishments such as buttons and beads to compliment your design. Who is Print Collage Stitch aimed at? Print Collage Stitch is ideal if you are exploring textile art for the first time and want to find a focus for your creativity. It’s also ideal if you’ve been doing traditional quilting and would like to break out into something less formal, or if you’re a Beginner Quilter. Level: Previous printing or quilting experience is not essential but you must have competent sewing machine skills. It would be useful if you had some Free-Motion Embroidery experience, and also had completed one of my print workshops using gel plates (but neither of these is essential). Adults 16 years + What will I learn? This workshop aims to teach you the basic techniques of colouring and printing your own fabric, and making it into an ‘Art Quilt’ (sometimes referred to as a studio quilt). introduction to gelli plate printing (for those who haven’t done it before) or intermediate & advanced gelli printing techniques (for those who have) introduction to colour theory simple methods to colour fabric mark-making using household items as tools how to create layers of colour and pattern on paper & fabric how to create a cohesive collection of materials to use in your quilt. Materials can be paper or fabric. designing your ‘botanical still life’ fabric collage choosing fabrics for your composition how to fuse your separate elements to the background, adding batting (if you want to use it), and quilting your collage quilt various edging or binding techniques, and adding mounts for display Course arrangements All paints and printing equipment will be provided but you will need to bring some plain cotton or poly/cotton fabric and a few other unexpected materials! A full list will be provided when you book. There will be a break for lunch everyday and you can take short breaks whenever you need. (Travel, meals & Accommodation lunch not included).

This introductory course is a good starting point to learn expert sewing techniques whether you want to progress into dressmaking, soft furnishing or craft projects. It’s also a great refresher if you’ve not sewn for a while. Why is it called ‘XL’? – because it’s an extended version of my classic ‘Beginners sewing course’. It has two additional projects to make. This extra practice gives you 50% more fun, and twice as much confidence. This course takes place over 6 weeks, 2.5 hours per week. For Adults (16 years +) Course Description You’ll learn how to understand sewing machines, get experience of using different stitch types, learning about stitch lengths, widths and tensions. I’ll explain what the different presser feet are for and you’ll learn how to measure and cut fabric. With a small number of students, I’m able to personalise your tuition and you’ll benefit from lots of individual attention. I’ve been sewing since I was a child and that’s a lot of years experience. During that time, I’ve made every mistake in the book and learnt how to avoid them. Now you can benefit from my mistakes and learn to sew like a pro as I share my expert tips. I wish I’d known all this stuff when I started to sew. What others say: Just finished this 6 week class! A wonderful enjoyable experience learnt so much. Jen is So skilled and is a great teacher not everyone that is awesome at their craft can teach But Jen is So talented and her passion for what she does is so inspiring! I would recommend anyone that enjoys sewing to sign up! First class! From start to finish! Artisan Stitch holds a Certificate of Excellence is rated ‘Best sewing classes in Edinburgh’. A UK Enterprise award followed for Best Sewing Classes 2020 and Best Private Sewing Education and Tuition in 2021, and Scotland Prestige Awards in 22/23 & 23/24. Artisan Stitch is the only course provider in Edinburgh and one of only two in Scotland, that is recommended by Queen Margaret University. Level: Beginners (or as a refresher if you haven’t sewn for a while) Who is the Beginners Sewing Course XL aimed at? Absolute Beginners (if you’ve never used a sewing machine before) Novice sewists (if you’ve recently learned and would like to know a bit more) Lapsed sewists (as a refresher if you haven’t sewn for a while) For Adults (16 years +) What will I learn? How to use a sewing machine safely and confidently How to wind bobbins and thread a sewing machine Understand the importance of correct thread tension How to sew perfect straight lines, smooth curves and turn corners Learn three different seam types and when to use them How to take up hems by hand and machine. Make machined buttonholes and how to sew in a zip Mending/repair: bring something damaged or needing the hem taken up and I’ll show you how to do it. How to make three great sewing projects to practice your new skills: a lined reversible tote bag, a zipped make-up bag I-pad/tablet cover (this project can be completed at home using my video tutorial) All fabrics included. Course arrangements Sewing machines are provided or you can bring your own if you have one. If you are considering buying one, then I’m happy to give advice on what to look for. please read my blog Sewing Machine Features for information on what to look for.