Courses

Calender

Book now

For more info click on the course or scroll down

March

4, 11, 25: Wednesday sewing sessions am & pm, get help and guidance on any projects. Sold Out.

5, 12, 26: Thursday morning sewing sessions, to get help and guidance on any projects. Sold out.

7, 14, 21, 28: Teen sewing classes. New 4 week course starting. Sold out.

April

1, 8, 15, 22,29: Wednesday sewing sessions am & pm, get help and guidance on any projects of your choice.

2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Thursday morning sewing sessions, to get help and guidance on any projects of your choice.

14: Starting New Sewing course for beginners. 10 week evening course.

16: Starting new Clothes making for beginners. Evening course.

25: Teen sewing classes. New 4 week course starting 25 April - 16 May.

Clothes making for Beginners

Book now

Sewing classes in Stroud, Gloucestershire, creative, textiles, courses, workshop. Stroud international Textiles Festival, SIT. Sewing courses, Pattern drafting, Sewing Bee, Sewing Shed Stroud, making clothes, kids sewing, teen sewing, creative sewing, sewing classes Stroud, sewing in Gloucestershire, weekly classes, ongoing group, private sewing classes, textiles, making clothes, pattern cutting,

A new Clothes-making evening course will be starting at the Sewing Shed Stroud in Mid April. We will be focusing on making your own garments.

This course is designed for anyone who wants to start making clothes with little or no dressmaking experience, or simply want to enjoy the art of sewing and creating!

We do ask that you have used a sewing machine before and have basic sewing skills. If you haven't got basic sewing skills yet please sign up for our 10 week sewing for beginners course as it is not suitable for compleet beginners in sewing.

At this course you will be making a Painters Jacket which has several pockets, long sleeves, a collar, facings, a button stand at the centre front with button and buttonholes. The neckline has a simple collar and the garment has long sleeves so you will be taught how to sew sleeves into a garment. There are pockets at the front and topstitch to give the garment a neat finish.

At the Sewing Shed Stroud we work in small groups so there is plenty of time to ask questions, receive hands on guidance and tuition.

We will cover the following :

How to follow a paper pattern, learning about the pattern markings and what they mean.
Following a plan and cutting out your fabric correctly.
Learning the art of pairing fabric and pattern.
Measuring yourself and selecting the correct size.
Tweaking fitting issues.
Understanding clothes making terminology.
Suitable seam finishes for different fabrics.
We will be using a pattern with sizing 6 - 22.

When: Thursday evenings starting 16 April till 2 July. No sewing 14 & 21 May.
Where: Sewing Shed Stroud
Time: 7pm - 9pm.
Fee: 285 pounds.

Please email if you have any questions.

I loved this course - beginners dressmaking. Martha is warm, patient and knowledgeable and enables an atmosphere in which you feel relaxed and able to learn. I made a lovely pair of trousers - no one more surprised than me! It was so good I have signed up to two more courses! Thank you Martha. D.H.

I did the beginners dressmaking course. I learnt lots of really useful tips that would be useful for sewing any kind of garment, to make it look more professional and less homemade. It's a lovely cozy environment, fun and great creative therapy in a little bubble away from the stresses of day to day life. Highly recommended. K. F.

I absolutely loved the Dressmaking for Beginners course. Martha is a great teacher and the 'shed' is great. Really happy with the dress I made. Have already done the Sewing for Beginners course (loved that one as well) M.F.

Thank you again Martha for another great class. I have just finished the dressing making course for beginners, and I have made a dress that I can actually wear! You’re so helpful and patient and you don’t mind repeating yourself time and again. I’m looking forward to booking another course when you have availability. Thank you Sheena. S. H.

Sewing course for beginners: Learn practical skills and creative techniques

Book now

freehand machine embroidery art and learn to 'draw' with the machine., Stroud, Gloucestershire, creative, textiles, courses, workshop. Stroud international Textiles Festival, SIT. Sewing courses, Pattern drafting, Sewing Bee, Sewing Shed Stroud, making clothes, kids sewing, teen sewing, creative sewing, sewing classes Stroud, sewing in Gloucestershire, weekly classes, ongoing group, private sewing classes, textiles, making clothes, pattern cutting,

A 10 week sewing course suitable for beginners and anyone who wants to brush up on their existing skills. We will cover a wide range of techniques and methods that are usable for dressmaking, interior design and more creative handmade projects. These skills are taught through a variety of hands-on projects, demonstrations and guided supervision.

The knowledge and expertise you gain will be:

- Getting total control of the sewing machine.

- Mastering a variety of seams, stitches and finishings.

- Experiment with colours, pattern and fabric properties.

- How to sew zips, buttonholes, corners, curves and darts.

- Have a go at applique or patchwork to give projects a whole different twist.

- Mastering hems on all sorts of garments so shortening or lengthening becomes a doddle.

- Making your own samples useful for future references.

Dates: Tuesdays 14 April - 30 June (no sewing 19 & 26 May.)

Where: Sewing Shed Stroud.
Time: Tuesday evenings 7pm - 9pm.

Fee: 265 pounds.

Spaces: 5

'Many thanks Martha for your help on the beginners course. It has given me the confidence to buy my own machine and embark on home projects.
Your lessons were relaxed and friendly and I would happily recommend them to anyone. I soon realised it was not about what we made in the lessons but about the skills involved in making the items. I will most certainly come to one of your future classes.
Thank you also for the practical advice you gave me concerning my hand tremor, by looking at ways I can work around this.'

I have just completed the 10 week introductory course and it has been fantastic. I started with no idea how to use my sewing machine and after 10 weeks I'm able to carry out simple projects using the techniques I've learned. Martha is a great teacher and the classes are fun and engaging. Highly recommended.

Absolutely loved this course. I'd never touched a sewing machine and I was really nervous about not being able to keep up with other people on the course but Martha was absolutely amazing at making sure we all had the right level of help so no one got left behind bit we could all work at our own pace. Would definitely recommend this course, it's the best thing I've done for myself in years.

I am writing a thank you message for my time on your beginner's sewing course. As someone who had tried using a sewing machine but struggled to feel confident, the course helped me understand and get to grips with it. The setting and atmosphere of the class was also very welcoming and there was a real camaraderie between us.

Wednesday Sewing Sessions.

Book now

Ever wanted to make or alter your own clothes or home soft furnishings? This is a friendly group at which you get individual tuition, help and guidance along the way. Having basic sewing skills all abilities are welcome on this course, which offers all aspects of sewing:- designing, choosing fabrics and styles, mending and altering, understanding commercial patterns, measuring for pattern size, cutting out and garment construction.

Find inspiration while learning basic principles and professional finishing techniques to create great fitting original clothes, no matter your shape, size, style or experience. A group makes the experience enjoyable while ensuring that you get the individual guidance and advice you need. This is a group of like minded people that is meeting ones a week, enjoying the process of making and being creative with fabrics.

When: Wednesday mornings and Wednesday afternoons
Where: Sewing Shed Stroud
Time: 9.30 am - 12 noon and 1.30 pm - 4 pm.
Fee: Per block, see below.

Term 4: 4 March - 15 April, Morning sessions. (No sewing 18 March) 6 weeks. Fee 144 pounds. Sold out.
Term 4: 4 March - 15 April, Afternoon sessions. (No sewing 18 March) 6 weeks. Fee 144 pounds. Sold out.

Term 5: 22 April - 3 June. Morning sessions. (No sewing 20 May) 6 weeks. Fee 144. 7 spaces.
Term 5: 22 April - 3 June. Afternoon sessions. (No sewing 20 May) 6 weeks. Fee 144. 5 spaces.

Term 6: 10 June - 8 July. Morning sessions. 5 weeks. Fee 120. 7 spaces.
Term 6: 10 June - 8 July. Afternoon sessions. 5 weeks. Fee 120. 6 spaces.

Interested...? email or phone on 0784 685 3016.

I enrolled on Martha’s Beginners Sewing Course in the autumn to update and advance my sewing skills as my recent dressmaking projects have not all been successful, despite a new sewing machine with lots of new features. It was a joy to go back to basics as Martha calmly guided us through some basic skills including using my machine to sew buttonholes and to insert a zip. These skills were used to make a small, lined, zipped bag (I have now made several as Christmas presents). The sewing shed is a lovely warm, creative space where mistakes can often be overcome and not everything has to be perfect. Each week Martha provides tips on useful equipment and fabrics. I took up the option of taking along my new sewing machine and now feel I am better acquainted with its most useful features.

"I joined Martha's sewing classes earlier this year. I had heard good things but as a distinctly rusty seamstress was rather nervous. I needn't have worried as Martha is very encouraging also patient and kind .The sewing shed is a wonderful friendly space to develop skills ,create, meet like minded people and share some laughs along the way' A.H.

If you are thinking of taking up sewing or reconnecting with your sewing machine, I would recommend a course at the Sewing Shed. Fiona.

Thursday Sewing Sessions

Book now

When: Thursdays mornings
Where: Sewing Shed Stroud
Time: 9.30 am - 12 noon
Fee: Per block, see below.

Term 4: 4 March - 15 April, Thursday morning sessions ( No sewing 19 March ) 6 weeks. Sold out.

Term 5: 23 April - 4 June, Thursday morning sessions ( No sewing 14 & 21 May ) 5 weeks. 6 Spaces. Fee 120.

Term 6: 11 June - 9 July, Thursday morning sessions; 5 weeks. 7 Spaces left. Fee 120

Interested...? email or phone on 0784 685 3016.

LOVED my first experience of the Sewing Shed ! The workshop itself was fantastic - I learned so much in the calm , friendly , confidence-building atmosphere and look forward to going back again soon ! “ E. B.

Teen sewing classes

Book now

A place for teenagers (10+) to learn a new skill, and build their confidence in sewing. Over the term, you will learn how to use a sewing machine; how to use different types of stitches, how to sew hems and seams, explore different fabrics and colours, put in zips, and complete a project. At the Sewing Shed, we have a range of Bernina sewing machines that you are welcome to use, as well as all the tools you will need. But please feel free to bring your own sewing kit, if you have.

In term two, you will make a boxy pencil case with a zip! You can choose your own fabrics and colours, so you go home with a beautiful handmade item that you love.

In term three, the classes will be a bit longer, 10am - 12noon, to give more time in the lesson. You will be making an appliquéd cushion cover, you can create your own design and learn how to make that in fabric.

This class is taught by Ava, she has years of experience in the sewing industry, working as a seamstress in bridal, costume and interiors. She also has experience teaching both adult and kids sewing classes.

What you will learn:

Setting up and threading a sewing machine
basic stitches on a sewing machine
sewing straight lines and curves
sewing hems and seams
ironing seams and hems
cutting fabric, following a pattern
sewing on buttons and making button holes
putting in zips
Working with a variety of fabrics

When: Saturday Mornings
Where: Sewing Shed Stroud
Time: 10 - 11:30 AM
Fee: Per block, see below.

Term 1: 10 January - 7 February, Saturday morning sessions, 5 weeks. Sold out.

Term 2: 7 March - 28 March, Saturday morning sessions, 4 weeks. Sold out.

Term 3: 25 April - 16 May, Saturday Morning session, 4 weeks. 3 spaces left. Fee 80. 10am - 12noon

There is one concession spot available, so please contact us to discuss this.

What you need:

Sewing kit (if you have) : fabric scissors, pins, unpicker, marking tools; chalk or pens, thread
Fabrics and thread for your project, details will be given.

My daughter has just completed the teen sewing course with Ava who was very patient with her and made it a calm place for her learn in a small group. She gained the basics and made a lovely bag which has aspired her to complete some personal projects. She hopes to attend future courses to further build on her sewing skills. T.E.

I can highly recommend the teenagers' sewing course at the Sewing Shed in Stroud. My daughter loved the sessions and progressed from complete beginner to making her own clothes within a term. It is well equipped, beautifully decorated and full of ideas for designs. The class was small and the teaching excellent. - JB

4 Week Sewing Course for Beginners.

Book now

This sewing course is in collaboration with the Stroud Textile Trust who partly subsidise this course. It is open for anyone who is new to sewing or want to brush up on their sewing skills. This course will be runing during the month of June on the Friday mornings.

Information about the course:

You will be starting the course with an introduction in how to use a sewing machine. This means using different stitches and getting control over your machine. From there on you will be improving and building your skillset by making 2 different projects. To finish off you will be making a button and buttonhole sample.

If you prefer you can bring your own sewing machine as long as it is in good working order. Alternatively, you can use one of our bernina sewing machines.

The knowledge and expertise you gain will be:

- Getting control of the sewing machine.

- Mastering a variety of seams, stitches and finishings.

- Learn how to cut fabric and be making accurate measurements in fabrics.

- Get an understanding about grain lines and selvedges.

- Experiment with colours, pattern and fabric properties.

- How to sew on a button and making a buttonhole.

Dates: 5, 12, 19, 26 June 2026.

Time: Friday mornings 10 am - 12 noon.

Where: Sewing Shed Stroud.
Fee: 80 pounds. In partnership with Stroud Textile Trust who kindly sponsor part of this course.

Spaces: 8

Want to learn more after this course?

- You can join the Thursday or Wednesday sessions and choose your own projects.

- Alternatively sign up for the extended sewing course for beginners starting in September.

Feedback from the 4 week course:

I attended the 4 weeks biginners course in June and loved it. Martha is a very good teacher and helped us step by step on how to use the sewing machine and with the projects: a pin cushion and pin wallet! I enjoyed very much the calm approach to the course and the relaxing atmosphere. Overall a great couse and experience, thank you so much Martha. MFM

Many thanks Martha for your help on the beginners course. It has given me the confidence to buy my own machine and embark on home projects.
Your lessons were relaxed and friendly and I would happily recommend them to anyone. I soon realised it was not about what we made in the lessons but about the skills involved in making the items. I will most certainly come to one of your future classes.
Thank you also for the practical advice you gave me concerning my hand tremor, by looking at ways I can work around this.

Martha is such a wonderful teacher. I had no idea how to use a sewing machine when I first started, and now am comfortable working on a variety of projects on my own. If you want to learn to sew, don't hestitate to join these classes!

Like many people I have a sewing machine but was anxious about using it so not getting the best from it. So I was glad to sign up for Marthas 'Sewing machine basics' course. Martha was so calm, clear and unfussed, that we all learned a lot, without stress. She is a great teacher and I found the course very worthwhile.

I have just completed a short sewing course for beginners which I thoroughly enjoyed. I learnt all those things I’d either forgotten or wasn’t listening to when being taught at school. Martha is very calm and patient. She breaks the learning down into simple steps which she builds upon so that the skills get embedded. The atmosphere was very relaxed which helps keep the nervous novice jitters firmly under control.

Clothes Making Course for Beginners.

Book now

Clothes making, dressmaking, sewing, sewing in stroud, sewing in Gloucestershire, sewing classes, learn to sew, small sewing classes, sewing.

A new clothes making course at the Sewing Shed Stroud focusing on creating your own garments.

This course is designed for anyone that wants to start making clothes with little or no garment making experience. We do ask that you have used a sewing machine before and have basic sewing skills. If you haven't got basic sewing skills yet please sign up for our 10 week sewing for beginners course as it is not suitable for compleet beginners.

At this course you will be making a top based on a traditional sweatshirt with a ribbed neck, sleeves and hem line. We will cover how to make small pattern adjustments so that garments you make fit your body. This garment has raglan sleeves and using darts to give a better fit. On top of this we will cover more skills and garment making techniques depending on interest and abilities of the group.

At the Sewing Shed Stroud we work in small groups so there is plenty of time to ask questions, receive hands on guidance and tuition.

We will cover the following :

How to follow a paper pattern, learning about the pattern markings and what they mean.
Following a plan and cutting out your fabric correctly.
Learning the art of pairing fabric and pattern.
Measuring yourself and selecting the correct size.
Tweaking fitting issues.
Understanding clothes making terminology.
Suitable seam finishes for different fabrics.
We will be using a pattern with sizing 8 - 28.

Dates: 30 January - 10 April. No sewing Friday 13 March

Where: Sewing Shed Stroud.

Time: Friday Mornings 10 am - 12 noon.

Fee: 275 pounds.

Spaces: Sold out.

Sewing for beginners: How to sew zips, buttonholes and other techniques.

Book now

A new 6 weeks course where you will learn a variety of skills that are very useful for any sewing project in years to come. At this course we will be sewing in zips suitable for different applications. Firstly you will be sewing in a lapped zip which is used in garment making such as trousers, dresses and skirts. Additionally you will make a bag which has a zip fastening, pocket and use other skills. You will also be taught how to make buttonholes.

At the Sewing Shed Stroud we teach in small groups which means there is lots of time for individual questions and guidance.

This course is suitable for anyone who knows how to use a sewing machine and/or has completed a 4 week short sewing course in the past. If you would like to join but you are unfamiliar with the machine you can always book a introduction with a sewing machine session.

The knowledge and expertise you gain will be:

- How to sew zips in a variety of ways.

- Learn about and experiment with colours, pattern and fabric properties.

- Get to grips with buttonholes and make them look professionally.

- Mastering a variety of seams, stitches and finishings.

- Make your own pockets and sew corners, curves and darts.

- Making your own samples useful for future references.

Dates: 3 October till 7 November 2025.

Where: Sewing Shed Stroud.

Time: Friday Mornings 10 am - 12 noon.

Fee: 150 pounds.

Spaces: Sold Out.

I've just completed a 4 week beginners course at the Sewing Shed and I was a complete beginner! At the end of the course I had learnt how to operate a sewing machine and made a pincushion and needle holder. I thoroughly enjoyed the course. Martha is an excellent teacher, very patient and skilled. She also encouraged our own individual creativity. I'd love to do another course at the Sewing Shed and highly recommend it others.

My 10-week beginner sewing course with Martha has to be one of the best things I ever spent money on. I didn’t know anything about sewing prior to signing up. It was a really meaningful experience for me to learn a skill I never thought I could learn, and surpass all my own expectations. Martha is very knowledgeable, talented and patient, and the people I learnt alongside every Tuesday evening really brightened my week. My course has finished now and I am onto my first project on my own!
Thank you Martha

Get to know your overlocker for beginners.

Book now

Get as much benefit out of using your overlocker as possible. We will cover things like: how to rethread the EASY way, adjust stitch length and blade position. Understanding and adjusting the tension. How to sew corners and round edges. How to look after your machine such as replacing the needles and how to clean your machine. You will go home having gained a better understanding of how to neaten raw edges professionally and being able to change the settings with confidence.

This workshop is for beginners who can bring their own overlocker.

When: Saturday 14 February.

Where: Sewing Shed Stroud.
Time: Saturday morning from 10 pm - 12.30

Fee: 60 pounds

Spaces: Sold out.

Interested?...Let me know so I can plan a new workshop.

I really enjoyed the overlocker beginners course. It was well-structured and paced, so that we learnt about our own machines as we went along and left ready to put them to good use straight away. Thanks again.

I recently attended the beginners overlocker course at the Sewing Shed and can thoroughly recommend it. The atmosphere was friendly and relaxed with Martha being a great teacher imparting her knowledge clearly. Time was managed really well and we got through a lot in the afternoon. I am looking forward to the follow on overlocker course. Marie

Relaxed atmosphere and learned loads. I started out as an Overlocker novice and now have the confidence to have a go myself and practice the skills I’ve learned. Thanks Martha and please let me know when the next stage Overlocker course is running.

Freehand Machine Embroidery:

Book now

Explore freehand machine embroidery and learn to 'draw' with the machine.

We will be experimenting with a variety of techniques and different materials that can be used for your own design.
We will be starting the process using pieces of calico, as an initial experimenting phase in order to move on to more complicated and intricate designs. It is a wonderful creative technique which has endless possibilities.

All the techniques on offer are adaptable for all levels.

When: tbc
Where: at the Sewing Shed Stroud.
Time: 10 am - 12.30

For more info please get in touch.

T-Shirt Overlocking Workshop

Book now

overlocker workshop, freehand machine embroidery art and learn to 'draw' with the machine., Stroud, Gloucestershire, creative, textiles, courses, workshop. Stroud international Textiles Festival, SIT. Sewing courses, Pattern drafting, Sewing Bee, Sewing Shed Stroud, making clothes, kids sewing, teen sewing, creative sewing, sewing classes Stroud, sewing in Gloucestershire, weekly classes, ongoing group, private sewing classes, textiles, making clothes, pattern cutting,

At this workshop you will be making a Basic T-Shirt using your overlocker. As we know T-shirts are extremely versatile garments and a staple in anyone's wardrobe.

This classic T-shirt can be, depending upon fabric choice and sleeve length, be worn as a lightweight summer garment or as a cozy sweater to keep you warm in the winter. You will be going home with a finished T-shirt that can be the base for a variety of garments.

At this workshop you will learn:

- Understanding the different properties of stretch fabrics.

- How to use a paper pattern, learning about pattern markings and what they mean.

- Understanding about pattern sizing.

- How to measure yourself and selecting the correct size.

- Tips and hints about cutting stretch fabric

- How to set in sleeves

- How to construct and sew in a neckband

- Finishing the hems in different ways.

- How to adapt your pattern for multi purpose usage.

Included in the workshop:

- Paper Pattern sizing 6 till 24.

When: tbc
Where: Sewing Shed Stroud.
Time: 1pm - 4.30pm
Fee:

For more info or questions please email...

2-Day Dressmaking Retreat

Book now

dressmaking, clothes making, make your own clothes, Stroud, Gloucestershire, creative, textiles, courses, workshop. Stroud international Textiles Festival, SIT. Sewing courses, Pattern drafting, Sewing Bee, Sewing Shed Stroud, making clothes, kids sewing, teen sewing, creative sewing, sewing classes Stroud, sewing in Gloucestershire, weekly classes, ongoing group, private sewing classes, textiles, making clothes, pattern cutting,

Information about the Retreat: At this retreat you will be making your own coatigan, a mix between a coat and cardigan.

You will start this 2-Day retreat with an introduction in how to read and follow a paper pattern. Then you will cut out your fabric and construct your garment. You will be shown and learn al the skills needed throughout the making process via samples and through demonstrations.

This re-treat is designed for anyone wanting to start making clothes with little or no dressmaking experience, or simply want to enjoy the art of sewing and creating! We do ask that you have used a sewing machine before and have some basic sewing skills. If you haven't got basic sewing skills yet please sign up for our short or 10 week sewing for beginners course as it is not suitable for complete beginners in sewing.

All of this will be taught in a fun and relaxed way whilst enjoying the wonderful food of Hawkwood College. During the re-treat you can enjoy the beautiful views and surroundings of this magical place.

We will cover the following:

Following a plan and cutting out your fabric correctly.
How to follow a paper pattern, learning about the pattern markings and what they mean.
Learning the art of pairing fabric and pattern.
Measuring yourself and selecting the correct size.
Tweaking fitting issues.
Understanding clothes making terminology.
Suitable seam finishes for different fabrics.
We will be using a pattern with sizing 6 - 22

Time and date:

When: Saturday 4th October & Sunday 5th October 2025

Where: Hawkwood College, Stroud
Time: 9.30 am - 4.30/5 pm.

Included: 2-Course organic lunch, coffees, teas and homemade cake.

Fee: 295 pounds. Sold out.

I had such an enjoyable weekend with Martha and the others who attended the 2-day beginners’ dressmaking course at Hawkwood. I had previously attended Martha’s basic sewing course which had given me so much confidence, that I was willing to believe that I could make an item of clothing! Martha is so calm and patient and everyone was very supportive and I am very pleased with my finished coatigan. I will be signing up for more courses. Sandra.

I had such a rejuvenating weekend at Hawkwood sewing with Martha and 4 other fun and interesting women. The venue was delightful with delicious food and a very calming vibe.The pace of the class was perfect. Martha is a kind, patient and encouraging teacher. I felt very proud of my creation. Thank you.

Spent a lovely 2 day retreat @ Hawkwood with like minded ladies and Martha our teacher, making a coatigan. Martha took the class through the pattern and sewing step by step so no one felt left behind and spoke to everyone individually to ensure we all understood what we were doing. Would recommend this course to beginners and anyone with knowledge of sewing. Sonia.

Follow-on Sewing Course for beginners.

Book now

This is a 10 week sewing course suitable for anyone who has completed the short 4 week sewing courses for beginners. If you haven't done so but you know how to use a sewing machine, have basic understanding of a variety off stitches and are interested, please contact the Sewing Shed to find out if this course is suitable for you.

At this course we will build on your existing skills and you will learn a wide range of techniques and methods that are usable for dressmaking, interior design and more creative projects. These skills are taught through a variety of hands-on projects, demonstrations and guided supervision.

The knowledge and expertise you gain will be:

- Mastering a variety of seams and finishings.

- Experiment with colours, pattern and fabric properties.

- How to sew zips, corners, curves and darts.

- Have a go at techniques that you can use to upcycle textiles for garments or broader projects.

- Mastering hems on all sorts of garments so shortening or lengthening becomes a doddle.

- Making your own samples useful for future references.

Dates and times:

When:tbc

Where: Sewing Shed Stroud.
Time:

Fee:

Spaces : Sold Out.

Interested...for any questions please get in touch by email.

From Cloth to Collage

Book now

An introduction into freehand machine embroidery exploring a variety of materials.

Using imagery and photos as inspiration, your fabric creations will be composed and layered before being stitched over using machine embroidery, hand stitch, collaging and applique. Suitable for any level.

There will be limited places due to the covid 19 distancing rules and regulations. If the situation changes with regards to covid and we won't be able to teach in the Sewing Shed we will post pone to another date.

When: tbc
Where: Sewing Shed Stroud.
Time : 10 am- 12.30/1pm

Fee :

Feel free to email if you have questions...

Private 1-2-1 session.

Book now

Here at the Sewing Shed we offer private lessons covering all the that we offer on our courses and workshops.

Please get in contact to ask for more details.

We also offer vouchers for courses, workshops and individual sessions.

A Beautiful space to learn and Martha is a knowledgeable and patient teacher. The lesson was fun! I hope to return. Sally W.

If you LOVE to sew. You will love to visit the Sewing Shed in Stroud. I have just had a one to one session, to learn how to use an over locker with Martha, an experienced seamstress/needle women/crafter. It was a great two hours to get to know my machine, share sewing interests, obtain new ideas, network about local suppliers of materials/treads etc. and relax in a peaceful shed (more like a cabin) surrounded by nature. I highly recommend this experience. Best to find a session which suits your needs. I plan to return to the shed and join one of Martha's project classes. Susan A.

Clothes making weekend for beginners

Book now

Clothes making, dressmaking, sewing in stroud, sewing in Gloucestershire, clothes up-cycling, sewing classes for beginners, intermediate sewing, trouser making.

A NEW weekend sewing workshop where you will be making your own pair of trousers.

The trousers are an easy-fitting, pull-on pant with an elastic waist, patch pockets on the front and back, and a playful cropped leg silhouette.

This weekend workshop is designed for anyone wanting to start making clothes with little or no dressmaking experience. We do ask that you have used a sewing machine before and have some basic sewing skills. If you haven't got basic sewing skills yet please sign up for our short or 10 week sewing course for beginners as it is not suitable for complete beginners in sewing.

We will cover the following:

Following a plan and cutting out your fabric correctly.
How to follow a paper pattern, learning about the pattern markings and what they mean.
Learning the art of pairing fabric and pattern.
Measuring yourself and selecting the correct size.
Tweaking fitting issues.
Understanding clothes making terminology.
Suitable seam finishes for different fabrics.
We will be using a pattern with sizing 6 - 24

At the Sewing Shed Stroud we work in small groups so there is plenty of time to ask questions, receive hands-on guidance and tuition.

When: tbc
Where: Stroud Brewery. London road, Thrupp.
Time :
Fee:

Follow-on sewing course for beginners Part 2.

Book now

This 9 week course is designed for anyone who has previous sewing experience or has completed the sewing course for beginners. All skills taught on this course are used for clothes-making and interior design.

The knowledge and expertise you gain will be:

- How to sew a concealed zip in a project.

- Mastering a variety of seams, stitches and finishings.

- Sewing shoulder-straps for a bag.

- Making a bag with zipper closure.

- Sewing a pocket with a zip fastening.

- How to repurpose old fabrics into new projects.

- Experiment with colours, pattern and fabric properties.

- How to sew darts, corners and curves.

- Making your own samples useful for future references.

The aim is to expand your skills, make products you like, increase your confidence and having a enjoyable and relaxed learning experience.

Some of the skills you learn and the projects you will be making: sewing in an invisible zips, cushion cover with lapped zip, crossbody bag with zipped closure, zipped pockets, strap and more.

We work in small groups with plenty of time to ask questions, receive guidance and tuition with a great deal of demonstrations.

Daytime course:

When: tbc

Where: Sewing Shed Stroud.

Date:

Fee:

Spaces:

For any questions please email.

The Sewing for Improvers Course was enjoyable, really useful and very good value. I'm delighted with my bag, apron and cushion cover and know I've acquired new skills I'll use again: making bias binding, inserting an invisible zip and using fusible fleece. Martha gives clear instructions and is very patient and encouraging. The two hours went by incredibly quickly each time. I shall miss the Wednesday evening lessons in friendly company.

I met Martha after I was given a 20+ year old Singer overlocker. Sixty-something, male, and barely capable of bodging the task of sewing on a button, it was time to face down the demons of fabric and thread.
The ten-week Sewing for Beginners course was great fun. Martha was comfortable working with a range of sewing machines, some provided by those attending the course and others others available in her well-equipped Sewing Shed. We made items that were attractive and useful. We achieved. We created a network of friends who still swap ideas and solve problems.
It is telling that the Beginners class signed up en masse for the follow on course, and now that has ended, for yet more sewing. The tentative sounds of sewing machines operating at their slowest have been replaced by the confident sounds of machines operating swiftly, all against a background of cheerful chatter.