Introduction to Alterations: How to take garments up and hem

Learn to alter, shorten, and hem your own clothes! A 2-hour, beginner-friendly workshop with expert tips and hands-on practice.
About this Event

Basic Alterations Workshop: Master Your Hems

Have you ever wanted to learn how to shorten or alter your own clothing? We are running a series of practical workshops designed to teach you essential basic alteration techniques so you can confidently take up your pants, dresses, or tops.

Skill Level

• Beginner-friendly: Suitable for anyone who knows how to thread and operate a basic sewing machine. No prior alteration experience required!

What to Expect

In this 2-hour hands-on session, you will learn professional techniques to give your garments a clean, custom finish.

• Bring your own projects: Bring up to two garments (pants, skirts, dresses, or tops) you would like to hem or alter during the session.
• Practice First: Gain confidence with a practice session using sample fabrics before working on your actual garments.
• Expert Feedback: Receive personalized guidance, constructive evaluation, and time-tested insider tips on what works best and where to improve.

What to Bring / Required Supplies

• 2 Clothing Items/Projects: Pants, skirts, dresses, or tops you wish to hem or adjust.
• Sewing Machine: In good working order, along with its power lead, foot pedal, standard presser foot, and twin needle (if available).
• Handouts will be provided and emailed after workshops.

(Note: Practice sample fabrics will be provided on the day.)

Techniques Covered

During the practice session, you will learn and create sample finishes for:

• Single Overlocked Hem: Ideal for clean, low-bulk edges.
• Double Hem: The standard, sturdy turn-and-stitch fold for woven fabrics.
• Invisible (Blind) Hem: Perfect for tailored trousers, skirts, and dressier garments.
• Double Knit Hem: Using a twin needle to achieve professional stretch seams on jersey and T-shirts

The Power of Pressing

Discover how proper pressing and ironing techniques can elevate a homemade alteration into a sharp, store-bought finish.

Please be aware that time is limited; I recommend a simple project. If you need advice,sed you can ask .

Finding Studio 11:

Our studio is located around the side of the building at High Bridge Works on weekends

Main Entrance & Intercom Note:

Please note that our main entrance buzzer is currently out of order on weekends.

• If you do not have building access, please text or call us at 07453480080, please as soon as you arrive at the front door. A member of our team will come straight down to meet you and let you in.

• If you already have access to the building, please wait by the main entrance; I will meet you.;, Please do not wander or explore other areas of the building, as other studios and private workspaces are in operation. There are security locks on each floor for safety.

Thank you for your cooperation—we look forward to seeing you at the workshop!