Sewing Essentials Course
Start your sewing journey with this hands-on Sewing Essentials course in Sydney. Designed for complete beginners and those wanting to refresh the basics, this supportive short course builds practical skills, confidence and creativity with a sewing machine.
You will learn how to set up and use a sewing machine, troubleshoot common issues, choose stitches and apply basic maintenance. You will also practise core techniques including seams, hems, pockets, reading commercial patterns, preparing and cutting fabric, and working with stretch fabrics, directional prints and velvet.
Across the course, you will complete beginner-friendly projects such as a pincushion, a lined zippered pouch and cotton pillowcases, helping you develop good sewing habits and the confidence to continue sewing at home.
Course Outline
- Session 1: Sewing machine safety, components, setup, tension, cleaning, stitch settings and speed control.
- Sessions 2-4: Seams, hem finishes, patch pockets, commercial patterns, fabric layout and cutting techniques.
- Sessions 5-6: Guided final projects, including cotton pillowcases and a lined zippered pouch with boxed corners.
Schedule & Pricing
- 6-week evening classes usually complete one lesson per session; 3-week daytime classes usually complete two lessons per session.
- Active supplied intakes include 28 May-2 July 2026, 1-22 June 2026, 20 June-4 July 2026 and 5 August-9 September 2026.
- Listed ticket prices are $609 for May/June 2026 intakes and $629 for the August 2026 intake.
Venue & Accessibility
- Held at Rozelle Campus, 2A Gordon Street, Rozelle NSW 2039, on the grounds of St Joseph's Church.
- The class takes place in an upper-level room accessible by stairs only; the lift is currently out of service.
- For full-day classes, a 30-minute lunch break is included. Bring lunch or visit nearby cafes on Darling Street.
Additional Notes
- Your tutor will email class notes one week before the course; please print and bring them to each session.
- Additional fabric may be required for projects, with guidance provided by the tutor.
- Please wear closed-in shoes for safety.
Details
You will learn
- Set up, adjust, troubleshoot and maintain a domestic sewing machine
- Practise foundational sewing techniques including seams, hems, pockets and stitches
- Read simple commercial patterns, cut fabric correctly and complete guided beginner projects
You will get
- Hands-on tuition in a supportive beginner-friendly sewing environment
- Completed sewing projects such as a lined zippered pouch and cotton pillowcases
- Practical skills, tutor tips and confidence to keep sewing independently at home
Appropriate for
Absolute beginners, anyone wanting to learn to use a sewing machine confidently, and beginner sewists refreshing core skills.
Preparation
What to bring
- Calico, bias binding, nylon dress zip, quality thread, pins, hand needles and suitable bobbins
- Fabric scissors, thread snips, paper scissors, tape measure, ruler, notebook, pen and pencil
- Optional portable sewing machine with manual and model-specific bobbins, plus printed class notes
What to wear
Closed-in shoes required
Your Teacher
Sydney Community College
Sydney Community College is a registered charity with a voluntary Board of Directors.
The College has a mission to offer innovative continuing adult education and training programmes that support individual efforts and facilitate sustainable social change.
We do this by:
- Providing quality continuing adult education opportunities for people to build practical and theoretical skills and develop knowledge;
- Leveraging from and developing community capacity and inclusivity;
- Developing innovative affordable and accessible skills training programmes;
- Partnering with like organisations to deliver learning opportunities for disadvantaged individuals and communities;
- Partnering with all levels of government to deliver education policy objectives.
Cancellations & Refunds
If the organiser cancels the class:
You are entitled to a full refund.
If you can't attend the class:
You’re welcome to send someone in your place.
OR
- A refund can be requested 10 days before class starts. An admin fee of AU$45.00 applies.
Terms & Conditions
At Sydney Community College, we know that plans can change unexpectedly. Whether it’s a shift in your schedule, a family emergency, or just a change of heart, we want to support you in the fairest way possible.
At the same time, we’re a not-for-profit organisation that commits resources to running each class—so last-minute cancellations can significantly impact our ability to offer quality, affordable programs.
That’s why we’ve created a simple, transparent policy that balances your need for flexibility with our need to plan and deliver courses sustainably. Our cancellation policy offers two clear options, depending on when you notify us:
Cancel More Than 10 Days Before the Course Starts – You can choose to receive a full refund, minus a $45 administration fee OR a non-refundable credit note valid for 12 months for the full value you paid for the course. This credit can be used towards any future course at the College.
Option 2: Cancel Within 10 Days of the Course Starting - You’ll receive a credit note valid for 12 months for 50% of the course fee you paid for the course. This credit can be used towards any future course at the College.
Please note that both refund and credit options are only available before the course begins. Once the course has started—or if you decide to withdraw after it has commenced—no refunds or credits can be issued. If you need to cancel your enrolment, just email us and we’ll take care of it based on the timelines above.
Have more questions about this class?
Tags:
Sewing Essentials Course
Book soon! 29 people viewed this class.
Be the first to know when this class has new dates! Add your email to the waitlist.