Advanced Dressmaking and Tailoring
Advanced Sewing Term Projects Outline
Welcome to an exclusive, couture-level sewing program designed to elevate your craftsmanship to the pinnacle of sophistication and technical expertise. Each term each term runs for 10 weeks, with 2-hour weekly lessons, offering a comprehensive and immersive experience into the world of advanced sewing. Overlocker use is included during the term, enabling students to achieve clean, professional finishes on their garments.
All students are required to prepare their supplies, including an invisible zipper foot, prior to each term's commencement, term patterns are supplied by Sew Me School.
This program is crafted for students who have already developed proficiency in basic sewing skills, sound knowledge of commercial patterns, competence in the use of an overlocker, and are now ready to enhance their expertise. Designed to mirror the intricate techniques employed by renowned fashion houses, this term will focus on refining skills required to achieve the perfect fit, mastering complex sewing methods, and elevating your craft to a professional level.
Term 1: Bouclé Fringe Jacket and A-Line Mini Skirt
Project Concept:
Step into the world of Parisian elegance with a iconic bouclé jacket and A-line mini skirt ensemble. Featuring luxurious fringe detailing, hook-and-eye closures, and a tailored silhouette, this look exudes timeless sophistication. The skirt’s chic front slit with decorative buttons adds a contemporary edge.
Requirements:
- Notions:
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- 4x large hook-and-eyes
- 6 metres of 1cm-1.5cm trim
- 1x 7" (18cm) invisible zipper
- 4x 2cm-2.5cm decorative buttons
- 5 metres bias binding
- Matching thread for fabric and trim
- 90/14 universal or sharps needles
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Fabric:
- Main: Bouclé fabric – 4 metre
- Lining: Poplin or medium-weight cotton – 2 metres
- Interfacing: Fusible woven medium weight – 1 metre
Advanced Techniques You'll Master:
- Couture-level handling of bouclé fabrics to preserve texture and shape.
- Designing and applying custom fringe for a bespoke finish.
- Tailoring invisible zippers to blend seamlessly into garments.
- Using bias binding to achieve clean, polished interior finishes.
- Perfecting garment construction for modern yet timeless tailoring.
Term 2: Angled Front Wrap Pants
Project Concept:
Channel effortless sophistication with tailored wrap pants, designed with precision and contemporary style in mind. Featuring an angled wrap front, integrated belt, self-tie detailing, and a perfectly executed fly-front zipper, these pants are both functional and fashion-forward.
Requirements:
-
Notions:
- 1x 7" (18cm) metal zipper
- 1x hook-and-bar closure
- Matching thread for fabric
- 90/14 universal or denim needles
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Fabric:
- Main: Medium-weight denim – 3 metres
- Interfacing: Fusible woven medium weight – 1 metre
Advanced Techniques You'll Master:
- Precision sewing of a fly-front zipper with hook-and-bar closure.
- Seamlessly incorporating a built-in belt and self-ties for a cohesive design.
- Drafting and sewing angular pattern lines for a cutting-edge look.
- Constructing tailored side-seam pockets with professional durability.
- Using topstitching to elevate the finish of denim garments.
Term 3: One-Button Jacket with Notched Collar and Welt Pockets
Project Concept:
Design a structured jacket that embodies couture-level tailoring. The one-button jacket features a sharp notched collar, expertly crafted welt pockets, and welt flaps. It’s a timeless addition to any wardrobe, with details that reflect impeccable attention to craftsmanship.
Requirements:
-
Notions:
- 1 set of 1/2" (1.3cm) thick shoulder pads
- 1x 2.5cm button
- 4x 1.5cm buttons
- Matching thread for fabric
- 90/14 universal or sharps needles
-
Fabric:
- Main: Medium-weight wool flannel – 4 metres
- Lining: Light or medium-weight rayon/viscose – 2.5 metres
- Interfacing: Fusible woven medium weight – 6 metres
Advanced Techniques You'll Master:
- Sculpting a notched collar with clean, crisp edges worthy of haute couture.
- Constructing precise welt and welt flap pockets for tailored elegance.
- Setting shoulder pads for structure and achieving a sleek silhouette.
- Executing advanced lining techniques for a flawless interior finish.
- Perfecting a single-button closure and front-facing construction.
Term 4: Flared Peplum Top with Bustier and Boning
Project Concept:
Enter the world of high fashion with a flared peplum top, an ode to couture design. Featuring a lined bodice with bustier-inspired details, boning for structure, and a sweetheart neckline, this garment is an epitome of femininity and craftsmanship. Off-shoulder sleeves and a concealed invisible zipper add an air of luxury, while a flared hem with horsehair braid ensures dramatic flair.
Requirements:
-
Notions:
- 1x 14" (36cm) invisible zipper
- 3 metres horsehair braid
- Boning for bodice support (as specified by instructor)
- Matching thread for fabric
- 80/12 universal or sharps needles
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Fabric:
- Main: Medium-weight satin – 2 metres
- Lining: Light or medium-weight lining – 1 metre
- Interfacing: Fusible woven lightweight – 1 metre
Advanced Techniques You'll Master:
- Constructing a lined bodice with couture-level bustier detailing and boning.
- Perfecting sweetheart necklines with clean, curved seams.
- Sewing and shaping off-shoulder sleeves for a secure and elegant fit.
- Installing invisible zippers with seamless precision.
- Using horsehair braid to shape and support a dramatic peplum hem.
Fashion House-Level Excellence
By the end of this program, you will have created a cohesive portfolio of sophisticated garments, reflecting the expertise required in high-end fashion houses. Each piece will showcase advanced sewing skills, precise tailoring, and luxurious finishing techniques, preparing you for professional-level design or bespoke garment creation.