Learn to Sew with Confidence (Even If Your Sewing Machine Scares You Just a Little Bit 😅)
Beginner Sewing Course – 10 Weeks of Friendly, In-Person Tuition
Got a sewing machine gathering dust?
Bought fabric you’re too afraid to cut into?
Feel nervous about buttonholes… or 😳 zips?
You're so not alone — and this is exactly the place to start. Over ten relaxed and supportive weekly sessions, you’ll learn to sew, build confidence, and finally get to grips with your sewing machine.
By the end of the course, you’ll have made three lovely, practical projects to show off your new skills:
👜 A re-usable tote bag (go shopping in style!)
👩🍳 A fabulous apron (perfect for cooking, gardening or giving as a gift to your favourite foodie)
🛋️ A fun little cushion (for snuggling, pimping up your sofa, gifting or basically for showing off)
On the Beginner Sewing Course, you’ll learn:
✅ What all those mysterious sewing machine dials and buttons do
✅ How to thread your machine and wind a bobbin (without the frustration!)
✅ Which sewing machine feet to use and how to change them
✅ The truth about needles and thread (spoiler alert: they’re not all created equal!)
✅ How to sew a straight line, even if you're wobblier than a drunk flamingo to start with
✅ How to sew round corners like a pro
✅ How to insert buttonholes and zips – even if they terrify you now!
✅ And loads of tips to make sewing feel simple, fun and achievable
There will be plenty of time for questions, practice, and support – no rushing, no judgment, and no jargon. Guaranteed plenty of laughs along the way though.
Course Details:
🗓 Dates: Monday 6th October – Monday 8th December 2025 (10 weeks)
🕖 Time: 7pm – 9.30pm
🏠 Location: Newent Community Centre (Glebe Church)
💰 Cost: £160 for the whole course (that's equivalent to £6.40 per hour of tuition followed by a lifetime of a fun and rewarding hobby). A two part payment option is available but please contact me for the link. £80 will need to be paid by card when you book, then the second £80 will be automatically taken from your card a month after your first payment.
- Free parking behind the building
- Lift access from the car park straight to our classroom (no lugging machines upstairs!)
- Easy drive: 17 mins from Ross, 20 mins from Ledbury, 23 mins from Gloucester
What You’ll Be Learning Week by Week:
Week 1 – Getting Started
We’ll cover everything you need in your basic sewing kit, along with needle sizes and why they matter. You’ll also learn about different types of thread (they’re not all created equal!) and we’ll discuss fabric choices for your tote bag project.
Week 2 – Understanding Fabric & Cutting Out
You’ll prepare and cut out the fabric for your tote bag, learning how to handle directional prints and exploring the “anatomy” of fabric — you’ll discover it’s not the same in every direction!
Week 3 – Handles, Pockets & Interfacing
This week we’re sewing your tote bag handles and adding pockets. You’ll learn all about interfacing — what it is, when to use it, and how to choose the right type for your project.
Week 4 – Constructing Your Bag
We’ll finish your tote bag, complete with boxed corners (aka a flat bottom!) so it can stand up properly. You’ll also choose fabric for your next project: a lovely cushion.
Week 5 – Cutting & Starting Your Cushion
We’ll cut out your cushion pieces and start sewing. You’ll get more confident with accuracy and piecing techniques.
Week 6 – Zips & Finishing Touches
Time to finish your cushion and learn how to insert a zip — don’t worry, it’s easier than it looks (I promise!). Then we’ll pop in the cushion pad and chat about fabric options for your apron.
Week 7 – Cutting & Pockets
We’ll cut out your apron pieces and make the front pocket, getting everything ready for construction.
Week 8 – Straps & Ties
Time to make and attach your apron neck strap and waist ties, and begin assembling the apron body.
Week 9 – Construction & Confidence
We’ll finish attaching all the apron pieces and check all is OK. You’re nearly there!
Week 10 – Finishing Off & Looking After Your Machine
We’ll finish your apron and wrap up the course with a quick guide on how to clean and maintain your sewing machine.
🎄 *And IF we have time… a little bonus: a handmade Christmas decoration to hang on your tree!*
I provide:
- All tuition (obvs )
- All patterns
- Advice on sewing machines if you’re looking to buy a new one
- Tea and coffee
You need to bring:
- A sewing machine - although I have three available to hire for a very nominal fee if you haven’t bought a machine yet. These are available on a first come, first served basis so contact me as soon as possible if you would like to borrow one, or need advice before the course on what machine to buy.
- You’ll also need to bring your own fabric and thread too, but don’t worry — you’ll get a 10% student discount code for my online shop as soon as you book, so you can treat yourself to some lovely fabric.
- Basic sewing equipment. We will cover this in your first lesson so you know what you need.
Why Learn with Me?
I’ve been sewing for over 45 years and have a City & Guilds qualification in Patchwork & Quilting and my passion and specialism is for helping beginners feel confident and capable at the machine – whether you’re just starting to learn to sew, or you want to take up quilting.
I’ve taught hundreds of people to sew through my in-person classes, online courses, and my YouTube channel, Quilt With Kim, which has had over half a million views. I’m also a guest presenter on Sewing Street TV.
Whether you’re brand new to sewing or returning after a long break, I promise I’ll guide you step by step in a friendly, down-to-earth way - with clear explanations, lots of encouragement, and plenty of laughs along the way.
Ready To Learn to Sew?
Come join us – I promise it’ll be fun, friendly, and you’ll leave feeling proud, confident and inspired.
Spots are limited, so grab your place now!
Joining details will be sent straight after you’ve booked, and a further email with fabric requirements will be sent a couple of weeks just before the course starts.
Got any questions?
What if I’ve never used a sewing machine before?
That’s absolutely fine – I have specially designed this course for complete beginners to sewing! I’ll guide you step by step, with clear instructions, practical demos, and plenty of support. No experience necessary, and no such thing as a silly question.
Do I need to bring my own sewing machine?
Yes, you’ll need to bring your own machine each week. If you’re not sure if it’s suitable or how to use it yet, don’t worry, I’ll help you get to grips with it as part of the course. Feel free to contact me beforehand if you want to double check, or want to discuss buying a machine (I don’t sell them but happy to give advice and what would suit you best).
Can I hire a machine?
Yes, I have three machines available to hire for each lesson for a nominal sum of £3 per lesson to cover maintenance costs. You will not be able to take the machine home with you though.
What materials or equipment do I need to bring?
You’ll need some basic sewing supplies like scissors, pins, thread, and fabric for each of the three projects. I’ll send you a full supplies list before the course starts, and you’ll also receive a 10% discount code to use at my online shop.
What if I miss a session?
No problem. I’ll make sure you can catch up in the next class, and if needed, I can send you written instructions or a short video to help you keep up from home.
Is the venue accessible?
Yes; the Newent Community Centre has free parking behind the building and a lift straight up to the classroom, so you won’t have to lug your machine up any stairs.
Can I bring a friend?
Of course! Just make sure you both book your places early - spaces are limited and classes often fill up quickly.
How many people will be in the class?
Class sizes are kept small at no more than 8 people, so that everyone gets individual attention, time to ask questions, and support at their own pace. It's also a closed group which means people can't join half way through, and you'll make lots of new friends in your group.
Are your classes open to men?
Absolutely! Sewing is for everyone, and gents are more than welcome to join. Whether you’re completely new or brushing up on old skills, you’ll be made to feel right at home.
Are your classes LGBTQIA+ friendly?
Yes, 100%. My classes are a welcoming and inclusive space for everyone, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation. Kindness, respect, and support are at the heart of everything I do. Sewing is for anyone who wants to learn!
💬 If you have any accessibility needs or questions about whether this course is right for you, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. I’ll do everything I can to help.
Feel free to pop me an email via this contact form and I’ll email you back. (I have to do it this way to stop the spammers!).