Introduction to Sewing 4 Way Stretch:  5 Week Creative Sewing Course

5-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.

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, demonstrate how to use measuring tape.

o   Identify each type of machine and its functions.

o   Review stretch stitch settings.

3.      Machine Setup & Practice

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

o   Hands-on: Sew straight and zigzag stitches on spandex scraps.

Week 2: Sewing and Stabilizing Seams

Objectives:

• Practice sewing basic seams for spandex.
• Introduce seam finishes and stabilizing techniques
• Understand how techniques for joining spandex differ between machine types.

Content:

1.      Seaming Basics

o   Stretch stitches (zigzag, triple stretch).

2.      Common Challenges and Solutions

o   Fixing skipped stitches or wavy seams.

o   Troubleshooting machine issues.

3.      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.

4.      Hands-on Practice

o   Practice sewing curves and pivoting directions.

o   Start sewing pencil skirt.

Week 3: Introduction to Patterns and Cutting 

Objectives:

• Learn techniques to cut and stabilize spandex.
• Explore pattern layouts and fabric grain.

Content:

1.      Introduction to Patterns

o   Acknowledging differences between commercial patterns and others

2.      Cutting Techniques

o   Using rotary cutters vs. scissors.

o   Stabilizing fabric with weights or temporary adhesives.

3.      Understanding Grain and Stretch

o   Identifying stretch direction.

o   Laying out patterns to maximize stretch recovery.

 Week 4: Leggings Construction

and Intro to Little Black Dress (LBD)

Objectives:

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

Content:

1.      Garment Construction Basics

o   Assembling panels and sewing seams.

2.      Adding a Waistband

o   Attaching elastic.

3.      Hands-on Practice

o   Sew a pair of leggings.

4.      Intro to LBD

o   Review step-by-step sewing guide for constructing the LBD.

Week 5: Little Black Dress/

Project Showcase and Styling

Objectives:

• Introduction to LBD pattern block and variations.
• Celebrate completed projects and review learned skills.

Content:

1.      Final Project

o   Cut LBD and sleeves

o   Garment construction

2.      Exploring Pattern Variations

o   Decorative stitches or embellishments.

o   Discuss next steps for advancing sewing knowledge.

3.      Showcase and Feedback

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