Dressmaking for Beginners - New! St George & Sutherland Community College

Dressmaking for Beginners - New!

This beginner-level course is designed for those who are new to sewing and would like to gain a strong foundation in dressmaking and patternmaking. Over 8 sessions, students will be introduced to key techniques including machine operation, fabric cutting, layout, and safe work practices. Through hands-on instruction, students will complete two beginner-friendly sewing projects: a tote bag and an apron.

The course also introduces sustainable cutting practices and tips for working with calico. Whether you’re looking to develop a new skill or refresh old ones, this course offers a relaxed and supportive environment to learn the basics of garment construction. All necessary techniques will be demonstrated step-by-step, making this a perfect entry point for anyone curious about fashion, textiles, or DIY sewing.

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
  • Overview of patternmaking fundamentals for beginners
  • Final session: finishing techniques and 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 construct a tote bag
  • Successfully construct an apron
  • Gain an introduction to basic patternmaking

What to bring:

  • Enthusiasm and a willingness to learn
  • 1.5 metres of calico for each project (tote bag and apron)
  • Optional: canvas tape for bag handles
  • Optional: pre-dyed calico using natural dyes (if desired)
  • Thread to match your calico

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.

This course has no current classes. Please the waiting list.