Intro to Garment Construction - Level 1 (6 weeks)

Intro to Garment Construction Level 1 focuses on understanding fabric types, styles, basic construction, and professional finishes. Students will learn how to read & understand both PDF and paper apparel patterns and shape them into wearable garments. Students will also create a reference binder of techniques, terminology, and notes on their journey to custom clothing! 

This pattern & technique-focused workshop runs once a week over 6 weeks. 

Supplies Required:

• Sewing machine (bring your own or rent one from the shop!)

• Coordinating threads

• Rotary Cutter & Blade

• Fabric scissors (6” - 8” recommended)

• Basic Sewing kit (marking tools, pins/clips, safety pins, thread snips)

• Marking tools (vanishing tailor's chalk, washable blue fabric marker, frixion pen)

• Various needles (70/10 - 90/14 general use, 100/16 denim/canvas, ballpoint) 

• Fabric suited to the project (each will be outlined in detail) + notions

• PDF Patterns, printed & pieced 

• Binder (for handouts, notes, and sample work)

LESSON #1

INTRO TO FABRIC & PATTERNS

In your first class, you will learn about the various types of materials (knits versus woven, natural versus synthetic, fabric types & structures), grainlines, how to take measurements and create a variety of samples including:

• Finished hem techniques (pinking shears, zig zag stitch, serger/overlock, french seam, double fold hem, skinny hem, stay stitch, baste, blind hem etc…) 

• Embellishments: Gathering, pleats, decorative trims & stitching, twin needle 

Students will learn about:

• Making a muslin

• Transferring markings/making copies of patterns

• Sizing 

• PDF Pattern vs Paper Pattern 

• Pattern Symbols

• Introduction to Pyjama pants pattern

• Layout & cut process PDF (homework to print and piece PDF pattern)

PROJECTS:

CREATE YOUR OWN PJ PANTS OR SHORTS (Tissue Pattern)

Designed for chic lounging, the Carolyn Pajamas are thoughtfully tailored and supremely comfortable.

The Carolyn top features a classic notched collar, curved hem and breast pocket with three sleeve options. For a matching pajama set, choose between a straight-legged pant (with or without cuff) or a cuffed short. Both pants and shorts feature an elasticized waist, pockets and a faux fly. Personalize Carolyn by adding contrasting piping details for an elegant finish. Available for purchase at ECQco. 

UNION TEE (PDF)

The Union St. Tee is a great wardrobe basic to have in your pattern stash.  It comes with the option for a v-neck, scoop neck, or crew neck, and has four sleeve lengths included – short, elbow, 3/4, and long.  There is an optional chest pocket and a separate front piece that has been adjusted for a full bust (FBA).

The Union St. Tee is incredibly versatile depending on what options you choose, your fabric, and any embellishments you choose to add.  Embroider, applique, screen print, stencil, dye, sequin – this tee is a perfect blank slate for anything you can dream up.

Students will learn the following techniques:

• Working with knits

• Assembling and reading a PDF pattern 

Students must purchase the PDF pattern. ECQco can print off your pattern after purchase for a minimal printing fee!
https://www.heyjunehandmade.com/product/union-st-tee/

This class is suited for adults (age 15+)


All workshop participants are required to sign a waiver before the workshop. The entire waiver can be viewed at the bottom of our classes page. (East Coast Quilt Co. Workshop Waiver)

WORKSHOP CANCELLATION POLICY:
If you cannot attend a workshop (either one-day or a multi-day series) and it is 7 or more days before the start date, you will receive a store credit for 75% of the value of the workshop with a 30-day expiry date. If you cancel less than 7 days before the start of the workshop, you will NOT receive a refund or store credit. No credit or refund will be given for a "no-show" in the workshop regardless of the reason. So please ensure that you can attend before signing up.  EAST COAST QUILT Co reserves the right to cancel workshops/events for any reason. If this happens, you will be refunded your full workshop fee.