Sewing for Beginners
This two-day course will teach you core sewing techniques and will equip you with confidence to use a sewing machine.
Key information:
- Course dates:
- Sat 18 – Sun 19 July 2026
- Course times:
- 10am–5pm
- Age:
- 16+
- Art form:
- Production Arts
- Fees:
- £285
- Deadline:
- Bookings will close at 5pm on Friday 3 July 2026 or when the course reaches full capacity
- Level of study:
- Short Courses & Summer Schools (ages 18+) | Short Courses & Summer Schools, Workshops & Saturday Centres (under 18)
- Mode of study:
- In-person
- Venue:
- Guildhall School of Music & Drama
- When:
- Summer Schools (July–August) | Weekend Courses
Course info
Book Now
- Spaces are limited so early booking is encouraged
- Bookings will close at 5pm on Friday 3 July 2026 or when the course reaches full capacity
- Please note that accommodation isn't available
- Read our terms and conditions
Ages 16+
Course Dates & Times
Saturday 18 – Sunday 19 July 2026
10am–5pm
About Sewing for Beginners
This two-day course will teach you core sewing techniques and will equip you with confidence to use a sewing machine. Whether you are looking to get into costume design, create your own fashion garments, or are just looking to make more sustainable choices by creating or repairing existing clothes within your wardrobe, this course is for you.
Who is the course for?
Anyone aged 16 and over interested in learning core sewing skills. The course is suitable for complete beginners or those wanting to refresh existing knowledge.
What can I expect?
You will make the following three items using a sewing machine: a simple origami bag, a zipped pouch, and elasticated waisted pyjama bottoms/lounge trousers. The course will be practical.
You can expect to learn about:
- How to use a sewing machine
- Straight stitching
- Pressing
- Putting in a zip
Do I need anything for the course?
You will need to bring:
- Fabric (to be confirmed)
- Basic sewing kit containing the below:
- Fabric scissors
- Pins
- Needle
- Thread
- Ruler
- Tailors chalk
Please get in touch with the Short Courses Team at shortcourses@gsmd.ac.uk if you have any questions about the above.
Course Fee
£285
Book Now
- Spaces are limited so early booking is encouraged
- Bookings will close at 5pm on Friday 3 July 2026 or when the course reaches full capacity
- Please note that accommodation isn't available
- Read our terms and conditions
Eligibility
- We welcome participants from all ages 16 and over
- Participants must have sufficient English language skills in order to fully engage with the course
About the Course Tutor
This course is taught by Nikki Weston.
Nikki started sewing at the age of five and has been making throughout her life. Before going to university to study costume construction in 2019 she worked for the Home Office but was always teaching sewing and making for herself.
In the last four years she has worked as a dresser, wardrobe manager, costume supervisor and maker for TV, theatre and opera. Achieving a first class honours degree in 2022 has led her to working on productions at Guildhall School and teaching Costume students. In 2023, she worked for Evolution Productions on ten pantomimes, and most recently this year worked as costume supervisor for The Merry Opera's production of Handel's Messiah.
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