01. Who is this course for?
This one-day course is aimed at anyone who like to learn the basics of using a sewing machine. The aim of this course is to help you understand how your sewing machine works, how to make the most of its functions, and make a simple cushion cover. By the end of the course, you will know how to use your machine with confidence.
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02. What will I learn?
You will learn how to; thread your sewing machine; wind the bobbin; understand tension; carry out simple machine maintenance; identify and use your machine’s accessories; sew straight, neat seams with the correct seam allowance; sew round curves and corners; explore the range of stitches available; make a buttonhole; make a cushion cover from scratch.
Your tutor is an experienced seamstress, and you’ll probably pick up a lot of other skills and tricks of the trade along the way.
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03. How will I learn?
This is a tutor-led, practical workshop. Learners will be supported through class demonstrations and 1:1 assistance to develop their skills and create their own pieces. Learners will receive regular verbal feedback on their progress.
Please avoid taking holidays during the course. Missed lessons can affect funding for adult learning courses.
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04. What will I need to bring?
Please bring your own sewing machine and the bobbin that goes with it. Some machines will be available but getting to know your own machine will allow you to work confidently with it at home after the course. You will also need basic sewing kit: scissors, thread, pins, hand sewing needles, as well as 1m medium weight fabric of your choice, 2 buttons about 3cm in diameter, 0.25m interfacing
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05. What skills or experience do I need?
No experience of using a sewing machine is needed as you will be taught how to thread up a machine and how to use it.
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06. How will I be assessed?
The Learning for Wellbeing curriculum uses formative and summative assessment methods to evaluate learner progress. You will work towards completing a set of class learning targets, as well as your own personal development targets. Your progress may also be documented through photographic evidence.
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07. What could I do after this course?
Upon completing this course, you may wish to try our ‘Introduction to Sewing’ course.
The Learning for Wellbeing curriculum offers a wide range of art, craft, sewing, cookery, dance and creative arts courses for you to continue developing skills specifically aimed at improving your wellbeing. Courses are available to search on the GoLearn website.
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08. How will I be supported in my learning?
We aim to support all learners to succeed. Our tutors will work with all learners to meet individual needs by using a range of resources and teaching methods.
When you enrol on your course you will be asked if you have any additional learning needs or disabilities which may affect your learning. This might include physical disabilities, neurodivergent needs (e.g., Autistic Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, dyslexia, or dyspraxia, etc.), visual and auditory impairments, or a medical condition which might affect your learning. Your tutor will contact you prior to joining the course to discuss what support can be put in place.
For some learners, this may mean organising extra time in exams or arranging for a Learning Support Assistant to support your learning in class. We also offer a wide range of assistive technology such as reader pens, screen readers, large print keyboards and screens, alongside in-class resources such as coloured overlays, large-print resources and more.
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09. Is help available with course fees?
Many of our courses are FREE to all learners. For fee-paying courses, if you are in receipt of state benefits or have a low income (£26,211.90 before deductions) you could be entitled to enrol on your course for FREE, or at a 70% Reduced Fee cost. If your course is accredited (working towards a formal qualification) your course may be FREE if you earn under £25,000 before deductions. Some exclusions apply, eligibility for fee reduction is subject to change, and you may be required to provide evidence of earnings.
If the amount you must pay for your course is over £50, we offer instalment plans which break down the cost of learning into a set number of easy monthly payments.
If you need help with the wider costs of study, such as childcare, resources, travel, and transport costs, you may be eligible to have these costs reimbursed through our Discretionary Learner Support Fund. Visit us online for more details, and to download the online application form.
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10. How do I choose the right course for me?
If you are unsure about which course may be right for you, our team of Learning and Work Advisers are on hand to offer FREE and impartial information, advice and guidance on learning and work options available to you.
To book your free, confidential, and impartial appointment, please call FREEphone 0800 988 0308 or email LALS.LWA@leics.gov.uk.
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