Introduction to Sewing 4 Way Stretch: 4 Week Creative Sewing Course

4-week beginner-level sewing course curriculum tailored for sewing stretch spandex fabric on home sewing machines. Each session is designed to build foundational skills, progressing from basic techniques to completing projects by the end of the series.

In Person: Little Five Points Exact location will be given after purchase.

Week 1: Introduction to Sewing with Spandex

Objectives:

• Understand the properties of stretch fabrics.
• Learn about tools and materials specific to spandex sewing.
• Become familiar with basic machine settings and stitches for stretch fabrics.
• Practice sewing basic seams for spandex.
• Understand how techniques for joining spandex differ between machine types.

Content:

1.      Welcome & Overview

o   Course objectives, expectations, and supplies.

o   Introduction to spandex fabrics (e.g., 4-way stretch, 2-way stretch).

2.      Tools of the Trade

o   Review tools

o   Identify each type of machine and its functions.

3.      Machine Setup & Practice

o   Adjusting tension, stitch length, and selecting stretch-friendly stitches (e.g., zigzag, lightning bolt)..

4.      Common Challenges and Solutions

o   Fixing skipped stitches or wavy seams.

o   Troubleshooting machine issues.

5.      Simple Seams and Edges

o   Techniques for joining spandex without puckering or slipping (e.g., basting, pinning).

o   Hands-on: Practice joining two pieces of spandex

o   Practice sewing curves and pivoting directions.

 Week 2: Introduction to Patterns and Pencil Skirt

Objectives:

        Explore pattern layouts and fabric grain.

• Start first project construction of pencil skirt.

Content:

  1.  Introduction to Patterns

      o   Acknowledging differences between commercial patterns and others

  2.   Understanding Grain and Stretch

      o   Identifying stretch direction.

      o   Laying out patterns to maximize stretch recovery.                                                      

   3.  Garment Construction Basics

      o   Assembling panels and sewing seams of Pencil Skirt.

 Week 3: Cutting and Construction of Leggings

Objectives:

• Learn techniques to cut and stabilize spandex.
• Apply learned techniques to create stretch leggings.
• Introduce elastic and scrunch waistbands for stretch fabrics.

Content:

   1.  Cutting Techniques

       o   Using rotary cutters vs. scissors.

       o   Stabilizing fabric with weights or temporary adhesives

   2.    Garment Construction Basics

       o   Assembling panels and sewing seams.

       o   Give Visual Tutorial of inserting elastic scrunch butt.

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Week 4: Little Black Dress/ Project Showcase & Styling

Objectives:

• Introduction to LBD pattern block and variations.
• Begin sewing Little Black Dress.
• Celebrate completed projects and review learned skills.

Content:

1.     Final Project                                                                                                      o   Review step-by-step sewing guide for constructing the LBD.                            o   Start construction of little black dress with sleeves.                                         o  Discuss next steps for advancing sewing knowledge.

    2.     Showcase and Feedback

        o   Students display their completed garments within a fully styled look.