Discover the joy of sewing in this hands-on, beginner-friendly workshop! Whether you have never used a sewing machine before or want to refresh your skills, this one-day course will guide you through the essentials in a fun and supportive environment. Learn how to confidently thread a sewing machine, practice basic stitches, read simple patterns, and complete a small sewing project to take home.

You will also cover important safety tips and get plenty of practical advice from an experienced teacher. All necessary techniques will be demonstrated step-by-step, making this a perfect entry point for anyone curious about fashion, textiles, or DIY sewing. Perfect for complete beginners or those looking to build confidence before taking on bigger projects. Bring your enthusiasm!

Course Outline:

• Introduction to sewing machine basics and safety
• Fabric layout and sustainable cutting techniques
• Step-by-step construction of a tote bag
• Construction of an apron
• Quilted zipper bag
• Discussion of future project ideas

Learning Outcomes:

• Understand and apply safe sewing practices
• Confidently operate and troubleshoot a sewing machine
• Learn how to lay out and cut fabric with sustainability in mind
• Successfully make a tote bag
• Successfully make an apron
• Successfully make an zipper bag time permitting (meaning if we have time to make this we will)

What to bring:

• Enthusiasm and a willingness to learn
• If you have your own sewing machine please bring it with you and all the accessories that came with that machine including your manual.
• 1.5 metres of calico for each project (tote bag and apron or zipper bag)
• 1mt contrast fabric for lining of zipper bag
• 1mt or wadding for zipper bag
• 1 x size 3 or 4 nylon zipper 35cm long
• Optional: canvas tape for bag handles
• Optional: pre-dyed calico using natural dyes (if desired)
• Fabric scissors
• Chalk for tracing
• Pen and notepad
• Sewing equipment
• Fabric scissors
• Your basic sewing kit
• Thread: Pack one spool of either polyester Gutermann thread or Rasant thread (avoid birch threads). These high-quality threads will ensure smooth and reliable stitching

throughout your projects.

• Bobbin: Remember to bring an empty bobbin that belongs to your machine. It’s essential for winding and using the thread of your choice, if you are using a class machine

please purchase some Janome clear bobbins.

About the Tutor:

'Mora Cura brings over 35 years of experience in the fashion industry to her teaching. She holds an Advanced Diploma in Applied Fashion Design and Technology and a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE40116). After a long career in the industry, Mora transitioned into teaching and now shares her passion for fashion, sewing, and design through practical, beginner-friendly classes. Her aim is to make sewing approachable, enjoyable, and empowering for all students.'

Other Information:

• To ensure resources are ready for you at the start of your course, we ask you ideally enrol at least one week before the course commences.
• All courses need a minimum number of students to run ("we try our hardest to get those") . If your course does not have enough students it will be cancelled before the commencement and you will be informed.