Sewing Classes in Swansea Valley


DRESSMAKING & PATTERN CUTTING CLASSES AT THE DRESSMAKERS' GUILD
Our fully equipped teaching studio in the heart of the beautifully scenic Swansea Valley.

Are classes suitable for me?
Whether you’re a complete beginner who’s never used a sewing machine or a seasoned home dressmaker looking for the expert guidance needed to continue your dressmaking/pattern cutting journey, our welcoming and informal classes are suitable for ALL levels of ability and experience.

What will I learn?
The sessions are mainly student led, i.e. It is not a course with a set learning outcome. Students choose their own projects and work at their own pace, so the learning experience is specific to their personal needs. The class numbers are limited to a maximum of 6 to maintain the quality of the teaching. These classes are Dressmaking and Pattern Cutting only but we do occasionally run workshops and courses on other sewing related activities. With the tutor’s expert guidance, you will learn to make clothes that fit YOU, at YOUR own pace.

Who is the tutor?
The ongoing classes are taught by Nicola Ridd-Davies- Designer, Master Pattern Cutter and Garment Technologist for the fashion industry. She has a 1st class hons degree in Fashion and 35+ years’ experience, including 10 years at high-end lifestyle brand TOAST. She’s a member of The Guild of Master Craftsmen, SmallBiz100 and director of The Dressmakers' Guild.

When do the classes run?

  • Mondays 9am-1pm and 1.30pm-5.30pm 
  • Tuesdays 9am-1pm and 1.15pm-5.15pm 
  • Tuesdays 5.30pm-9.30pm
  • Wednesdays 9am-1pm and 1.30pm-5.30pm 
  • Thursday 9am-1pm and 5.30pm-9.30pm 
  • Fridays 9am-1pm and 1.30pm-5.30pm 


How much do classes cost?

Classes are £8.75 p/hr

The minimum subscription is £70 per month for 2 x 4hr sessions.

Fees are paid monthly every 4 weeks (NOT per calendar month), preferably by standing order or direct transfer, although payment can also be made by cheque or cash.

What’s included?
Tuition and use of the studio machinery and equipment is included in the cost. The studio boasts 6 individual, fully equipped work stations, which contain everything you could possibly need, including a sewing machine and overlocker, iron, ironing board, etc. The studio also has a blind hemmer, a coverstitcher and boxes of sewing patterns for shared use. If you prefer, you’re welcome to bring your own machines and equipment, of course.

Refreshments are available all day and evening from the various eateries in the village.

What’s not included
Fabrics, patterns, consumables (pattern paper, calico, interlining/fusing, pattern card) and trims (zips, ribbons, bias binding etc) for your projects are not included but we do have a small selection available to purchase. Members benefit from a 20% discount off the retail price.

We also have boxes of patterns and basic blocks which you are welcome to trace off and keep.

What happens if I can’t attend?
Refunds are not issued for absences but you may (depending on availability) have the opportunity to take an alternative session. In order to take advantage of this flexiblity, you will need to find a replacement attendee for your session by using our Whatsapp group.  This will be explained in more detail when you join.  It is your responsibility to make every effort to attend as we will not be liable for any lost time. 'No shows' will not be offered an alternative session. 

Occasionally, depending on availability, the tutor may offer free extra sessions at their discretion, at no extra charge. You are encouraged to take advantage of this as it can be offset against time lost through unavoidable absence or tutor abscence/holidays.

There is no minimum contract so you can cancel at any time. Please kindly allow at least one month notice so that the place may be offered to someone else.

What if the tutor cancels a session?
In exchange for the flexibility offered to students of The Dressmakers' Guild, you are required to continue to pay fees for the 2 weeks summer and 2 weeks Christmas leave. Alternative sessions will be offered by mutual agreement.  Any free extra sessions accrued in advance will be taken into account. i.e. If a tutor has offered free extra time, it will be offset against the time lost.

Where To Find Us
The Dressmakers' Guild, 6 Commercial Street, Ystradgynlais, Swansea Valley SA9 1HD.

Booking

For more info or to book, please or email info@nicolaridddavies.co.uk or call 07866 475443

Or please send an enquiry using this form and we'll get back to you asap.