Key Facts
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Starting
23 Jan 2026- Location
- Tooting
- Start Time
- 13:00
- End Time
- 15:30
- Duration
- 9 Weeks
- Study Mode
- Part Time Day
- Days
- Friday
- Start Date
- 23 Jan 2026
- Level
- Short Course
- Code
- TABX255TL
Fees
- 19+ Fee
- £ 112.50
Clothes Making Advanced Skills
Please note that the start of this course has been postponed. The course will now run as follows:
New start date 23/01/2026 New end date 27/03/2026
Broaden your sewing skills and let your creativity flow. Basic sewing machine skills and prior completion of 1 garment are a pre requisite for this advanced Course. In this course you'll learn how to make clothes to a high standard, including couture techniques to make your projects unique and exciting. Learners will be required to buy essential sewing equipment, fabric and a sewing pattern after discussion with your tutor.
You will be required to buy Bernina bobbins, pins, thread, hand needles and a sewing pattern on this course.
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Entry Requirements
Basic sewing machine skills and prior completion of at least one garment are a required pre requisite for this advanced course. -
Course Content
By the end of the course, you'll be able to:*Create a variety of garments, including tops, skirts, trousers, jackets, and dresses, using advanced construction techniques.
*Complete an induction on the electronic sewing machine and use it confidently for your projects.
*Select suitable patterns and fabrics to achieve your desired design and fit.
*Apply advanced sewing machine techniques, including the use of specialty feet, for professional results.
*Understand and interpret sewing patterns, including symbols, pattern contents, cutting layouts, and different methods for transferring markings.
*Identify and apply advanced garment techniques, such as bias binding, French seams, pleats, and pin-tucks, appropriately within your work.
Use specialist hand-finishing techniques, including creating handmade buttonholes, to achieve a polished, professional finish.
There will be individual and group tuition, with teacher led discussions and demonstrations. This course does not cover drafting patterns and learners will use commercial sewing patterns
There is an optional waistcoat mini project or a zipped mini bag (patterns are provided). The mini project runs alongside the making of an advanced level garment; selected by individual learners and agreed with the tutor.
Learners will be encouraged to create a photographic portfolio of work and collate a notebook of test pieces.
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Progression Next Steps
You might explore other clothes-making, textile or craft courses at South Thames College.You might go onto employment in a business that makes or alters garments; or build your own self employed clothes making business.
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Additional Information
The course is held on the 2nd floor: sewing room 223. 9 sessions at the Tooting Centre. What is needed for the course:- Tape measure
- Sharp 2H pencil (preferably mechanical pencils with a 0.5mm or 0.7mm lead)
- Rubber
- Sharpener
- Glue
- Sellotape
- Paper scissor
- Pattern notchers (optional)
- Tracing wheel (optional)
- French curve or a set square (optional)
- A4 ring binder
- X 10 A4 plastic wallets
- A5 notebook
- Black or blue biro
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Course Structure
9 sessions, once a week. There will be individual and group tuition, with teacher led discussions and demonstrations. This course does not cover drafting patterns and learners will use commercial sewing patterns -
Assessment Details
Initial assessment when joining the course, Tutor feedback, individual learning plan , informal assessment and homework. -
Teaching and Learning
Learning takes place through a mix of demonstrations, guided practice, and individual project work. You will have the opportunity to plan and create your own projects under the guidance of an experienced tutor. There will be time in each session for discussion, feedback, and developing your practical techniques.