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Introduction to Sewing

Always wanted to learn to sew? This beginner's course shows you all the important basics. While learning to use a sewing machine and an overlocker, clients create samples to keep and use as a reference. In the final lesson, clients cut out their own skirt in calico to fit and create a customised pattern, this skirt will be completed in the next course, ‘Start to Sew 1’. This course is recommended for those who have never sewn or have not sewn for a while. This course includes all materials, manuals and workbook.

Start to Sew 1

In this course, clients complete a calico skirt known as a toile. The toile teaches clients about their body shape. Clients are then taught to alter the commercial pattern for a perfect fit. The customised pattern will then be constructed in the client’s own fabric. The Start to Sew 1 & 2 manual is provided. After ten weeks of tuition, clients have developed sound skills and are equipped to move on to the next course, 'Start to Sew 2'.

Start to Sew 2

In this course, the focus is on understanding the pattern guide sheet instructions. Clients purchase a pattern of their choice and whilst making the garment, gain a fuller understanding of the symbols, language and methods used in constructing a garment through the support of their pattern guide sheet. Textiles, pattern and fabric selection and tools of the trade will be discussed throughout the course.

Garment Construction

If you are an experienced sewer, then this course is for you. Clients can bring a pattern of their choice and receive the support needed to construct a garment in a friendly and relaxed environment. Clients who have completed the Start to Sew 2 course, move on to Garment Construction. The aim of this course and all further study is for clients to be exposed to the different elements that make up a garment, for example a collar and sleeves on a shirt, or pockets in pants. The aim of each Garment Construction course is for the client to construct a garment of their choice. On completion, clients are welcome to re-enrol for as long as they like. Please keep in mind that it will take at least 12 months of study to become competent at sewing.

Teenage Sewing Classes

Introduction to Sewing - This course teaches first time students basic techniques while learning to use a sewing machine and an overlocker. Students create samples to keep and use as a reference. This reference will support them when they move on to their next course.

Sew Simple Sleepwear - In this course, students purchase a pyjama pattern suitable for woven fabrics. The students will either create winter pyjama pants using flannelette or summer pants or shorts using a cool cotton fabric. While making the garment, students will begin to understand the pattern guide sheet instructions. Once the pyjama pants are completed, the students can move on to the matching pyjama top. This will be completed in the next course, General Sewing.

General Sewing - This course encourages students to select their own project. The aim is to choose a project that is achievable in the set time. For example, a simple dress, skirt or top, or maybe a patchwork cushion, or an easy handbag. Once students have completed this course, they are welcome to re-enrol for as long as they like.

Please keep in mind that it will take at least 12 months of study to become competent at sewing.

Bag Making

Create a bag, tote or small purse using a commercial pattern or learn to design and draft your own. Bag making is a great way to express your individuality as you mix and match the diverse range of fabrics and bag handles now available. A project of this size allows clients to try a bit of patchwork or quilting. Bag designs are on display in the studio. Please note, clients must be able to use a sewing machine competently and have basic sewing skills.

Cushion Making

Clients will create a cushion incorporating design elements from the cushions on display in the studio. Some of the design elements will include simple patchwork, appliqué, ruching and piping. Clients will also have the choice of cushion backs, e.g. a zip closure and a buttoned closure. Cushion making is an opportunity for those who would like to try some fabric embellishment techniques, e.g. appliqué, twin needle work, reverse appliqué, and patchwork. When appropriate, metallic and embroidery threads will be used to enhance the design. Please note some clients may prefer to create samples in class and work on their cushion at home in between workshops. Please note, clients must be able to use a sewing machine competently and have basic sewing skills.

Zip Insertion - Workshops can be arranged upon request.

In this course, you will learn to insert three types of zip, a lapped zip, an invisible zip and a mock fly front zip (used in pants). Clients will construct each zip sample using calico. Zip samples can be repeated using different types of fabrics. For example an invisible zip could be inserted into a knitted stretch or satin fabric, a selection of fabrics will be provided on the day. Please note: to insert an invisible zip you will need an invisible zipper foot for your machine. If you don’t own one you are welcome to use my equipment. Please note, clients must be able to use a sewing machine competently and have basic sewing skills.

Introduction to Stretch Fabric

Stretch fabrics have become a big part of today's fashion wardrobe, so it’s essential that we learn to sew stretch fabrics to an acceptable standard. Through samples, this course will teach you how to use your overlocker and sewing machine to create seams, neckline and hemline finishes. Pre-cut samples and a workbook are provided. To gain the most out of this workshop please bring your own sewing machine. Please note, clients must be able to use a sewing machine competently and have basic sewing skills.

Fascinator Making

Creating a fascinator or a headpiece has become far more popular than decorating a hat. Using millinery techniques and tools you will be shown how to use the different types of millinery trims such as sinamay, flowers, ribbon, wire, beads, and feathers. Clients will be taught ways to create a unique fascinator using a selection of these materials, for example feathers can be manipulated and altered to create dramatic effects. Also, Vikki now offers fascinator workshops to Secondary School student groups. These workshops consist of one full day or one half-day session and are held at Vikki's studio or by arrangement on school premises.

Read an article about Vikki and her Millinery lessons

Please note: Workshops in Fascinator making are offered in Semester Two only. Workshops will be held on Sundays over September and October to assist clients getting ready for the busy Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival.

One on One

Sewing Tuition - Private lessons are available for clients from all levels with specific needs as well as those needing a flexible timetable. Topics covered are patternmaking and the advertised courses, or maybe you are just after individual tuition to complete a special project. Clients are encouraged to work with Vikki to develop their own course.

Sewing Machine Tuition - Learn about the sewing machine - threading, tension, your stitch selection and your feet selection over the one hour tuition.

Overlocker Tuition - Learn about - threading, tension, differential feed and rolled hemming over the one
hour tuition.