Machine Sewing for Beginners - Bags - Hucknall Library - Adult Learning

Come and join us for this hands-on, creative journey into the world of sewing! Whether you’ve never touched a sewing machine before or you’re looking to refresh your skills, this class is designed with beginners in mind. Over the course of our sessions, you’ll learn the fundamentals of machine sewing while creating your very own handmade bags. From threading your machine and understanding fabric types to mastering straight stitches and adding functional features like pockets and zippers, we’ll guide you step-by-step through the process.

By the end of the class, you’ll not only walk away with a beautiful, custom-made bag or two you’ll also gain the confidence and skills to continue sewing on your own. No experience? No problem! Just bring your enthusiasm, a willingness to learn, and a sense of fun. Let’s get stitching! In this beginner-friendly sewing course, you’ll be introduced to the essential skills needed to confidently use a sewing machine and create your own handmade bags.

We’ll start with the basics, how to thread and operate a sewing machine, adjust settings, and troubleshoot common issues. You’ll also learn about the different types of fabrics and tools used in bag-making, including how to choose the right materials for your projects. By the end of the course, you’ll have completed at least several bags and gained the confidence to continue sewing independently. Whether you're looking to start a new hobby, make thoughtful handmade gifts or even start a new crafting business then this course is the perfect place to begin your sewing journey.

By the end of the course, you will: Have at least three bags to take home and use Be able to work safely and confidently with a sewing machine Understand the importance of using the correct needles, feet and thread for the project Understand how simple patterns are used and made to create bags and accessories Be able to create and finish different types of seams Fit a simple zip correctly Create pockets and closures Have an understanding of different types of fabric and thread and be able to choose the correct ones for the project

What you will need to bring to the course:

We will need for the first session

Half a meter of cotton fabric, something the same weight as a duvet cover, a pillow case is ideal.

Good quality matching thread, Gutterman is a good brand and sews well.

Handy to have; scissors, tape measure, notebook and pencil

Later on we will need, depending on your chosen project;

2 meters of assorted patterned cotton fabric or Fat Quarter bundle

2 meters lining fabric

Zips; Number 3 Nylon only

1 meter of Iron On wadded Interfacing. Vlieseline H630 OR H640 Volume Fleece Batting is perfect

1/2 meter Vlieseline Vilene 6624 Interfacing Medium OR Vlieseline Vilene F220 Recycled Interfacing Medium

Please do not choose fabric with stretch or heavy weight furnishing fabric

Duvet covers and pillow cases are a good source of budget friendly fabric and are lovely to sew.

If you are recycling fabric then please make sure it is clean.