CUT & CONSTRUCT

A 3-Session Beginner Sewing Series

Prep it at home. Construct it in class. Pattern tissue is traced and cut between sessions, so when you arrive, you're ready to lay out fabric and start building. Over three sessions, you'll build the beginnings of a handmade wardrobe — trousers, a flutter-sleeve top, and a wrap skirt — each one teaching a new technique you'll carry into every project after this.

Format:  3 sessions, 4 hours each

Wed, Sept 16, Wed, Sept 23, Wed, Sept 30

Skill Level: Beginners welcome

Session Prep:  After Session 1, pattern tissue pieces for the top and skirt are cut at home — quick, guided instructions provided. Fabric cutting is done together in class.

Session 1: Pull-On Pants

Pattern: Simplicity S8841 (plain view — no cargo pockets, no tie belt)

We'll kick things off by choosing your pattern size for all three garments in the series, then get straight into a simple pull-on pant in your choice of wide or slim leg: clean seams and an elastic waistband, a technique you'll come back to again and again.

Session 2: Pull-Over Top

Pattern: McCall's M8256, View C (flutter sleeve)

We'll cut fabric together in class, then move into construction: a gathered, bound neckline and raglan sleeves on a relaxed, flowy top.

Session 3: Wrap Skirt

Pattern: New Look 6456, View C

We close out the series with a wrap skirt — no zipper, just a simple tie closure. Fusible interfacing and wrap-tie construction give this piece a polished, professional finish.

Supply List

Please bring the following to Session 1. Many items will be used throughout all three sessions.

Sewing Supplies

• Sewing machine in good working order, plus power cord and foot pedal

• Sewing machine manual, if available

• Bobbins (4–6)

• Universal sewing machine needles (80/12 or 90/14)

• All-purpose thread (color to coordinate with your fabric)

• Fabric scissors or shears

• Small thread snips

• Seam ripper

• Pins or sewing clips

• Tape measure

• Fabric marking pen, pencil, or chalk

• Hand-sewing needles

• Patterns: Simplicity S8841, McCall's M8256, New Look 6456 (bring all three to Session 1 for sizing)

Session 1 — Pull-On Pants (Simplicity 8841, plain view — no cargo pockets, no tie belt)

• Fabric: flannel, gingham, chambray, or cotton/cotton blends — yardage per your size and chosen leg width/length

• 1" wide non-roll elastic, 1⅝ yd (sized up from pattern's suggested width for a sturdier waistband)

Session 2 — Pull-Over Top (M8256, View C)

• Fabric: lawn, cotton blend, or poplin — yardage per your size

Session 3 — Wrap Skirt (New Look 6456, View C, no pockets)

• Fabric: batiks, chambray, cotton lawn, other cotton types, gingham, or linen — yardage per your size

• 1⅜ yd lightweight fusible interfacing

• Please avoid directional fabrics (plaids, stripes, one-way prints) for this project

Before Session 1

• Wind at least two bobbins with your thread

• Make sure your machine is clean and in working order

• Wash and press your fabric before class to help prevent shrinking later