If you are interested in learning how to sew a garment from your handmade felt - then this workshop is for you.

Note:  this is a sewing workshop and not a felting workshop.   

This workshop is designed to help you gain confidence in choosing and sewing with patterns. You will also learn how to use just a few patterns to make many different garments with a variety of fabrics. You will learn how to determine the correct size, how to make simple alterations to your pattern and how to fix fitting problems while constructing the garment, and how to assess the pattern information more critically to determine if it will give you the result you want.

Helen will also discuss how the world of sewing patterns has changed dramatically over the past few years. This will include how to download, print and use pdf patterns.

Over the two days you will construct at least one garment and, time permitting, make progress on another.

You will need to use a pattern that is suitable for felt.  Helen suggests a simple cardigan/jacket/vest style such as a kimono style or pullover vest. These patterns are normally suitable for use with felt, boiled wool and similar fabrics but can also work in lighter fabrics. 

Please select a pattern that comes in pdf format as downloading and using these patterns is part of the workshop. Please contact me if you need help.

If you need some inspiration to help you in choosing a pattern, Helen has provided some suggested sources below. Tessuti has a number of suitable patterns such as the Amara vest, the Avoca top and the Torino vest.

Pattern Companies

• thefoldline.com
  This is an English website with many thousands of patterns, from many pattern companies
• stylearc.com
  This is an Australian company. The patterns are designed by someone who previously designed for the fashion industry and the excellent drafting reflects that. They have a range of different styles.
• tessuti-shop.com
  This is another Australian company and the designer is also from the fashion industry. One of my favourites. These are simple stylish patterns with excellent instructions. They have some very nice free patterns.

OUR TUTOR - Helen Cox

In addition to being a keen felter, Helen has sewn for almost her entire life and has made many of her own clothing since she was 12. She loves to make one of a kind wearables from her felt. She is always searching for patterns suitable for felt clothing and will share her experience with patterns in the workshop.

aitchblue@gmail.com 

0403243787

Other information

Tools and materials required

• Sewing machine and accessories. Please make sure that your machine is in good working order and you are confident using it.
• Your chosen pattern(s).
• Suitable fabric. A wide range of fabrics would be suitable including nuno felt, boiled wool, mesh, merino or synthetic knits, drapey cotton, bamboo or modal knits.
• Some pattern tracing paper (Helen will bring some), sewing ruler, marking tools, scissors, matching thread, spare needles, a cutting mat if you have one, and your usual sewing tools.

Skill Level

Must be confident using your sewing machine.

Cancellations: see Workshop Terms and Conditions.