Summer Hill Sewing Emporium

Sewing, gardening and advice on patterns and tracing wheels

2017-03-20T15:29:00.000+11:00

I can't remember any time the rain was so generous on the coast and the mountains yet 10 km away there is drought. The garden and paddocks are enjoying the continuous soaking. Again I am reminded that virtually anything can grow if continually watered, as long as the drainage is good...as some of the old farmers say..you could plant a 2 inch nail and it would grow. Between showers I have been getting into gumboots and planting out cuttings.

The wet is a great excuse to stay in the sewing workshop, trace patterns and pursue the challenge of "the perfect House Dress". have had one success and one mediocre outcome. The success was unexpected, trialling an unusual Vogue pattern 1410.

The pattern has only two beautifully drafted pieces, so is quick and quirky. Buttons sewn onto the seams allow the bottom of the garment with buttonholes in seam, to be simply turned in to make the flattering billowing skirt. I made a few changes and fabric from a roll for old school uniforms...polycotton with a lot of body. As usual the trial fabric came up transformed and has already had an outing. We plan to see how a winter weight cord or drill would work with a white shirt or fine knit skivvy.
This dress is comfortable, quirky, quick to make and has several looks inbuilt from maxi to a top. I prefer the dress length pictured. Again, a great contender for 'the best house dress'.

Not so this one...

This was disappointing as the pattern was far too generous and the cut does not flatter. Darts, easing, structure and piecing can give a simple garment great shape and movement....this one had none of these. By trialling it in a heavy uncut cord fabric, I did the pattern no favours. That said it really needs a fabric with structure if not weight. On the positive side, it would be great for someone who is a plus size as the smallest size would equate to a 14-16. It is one of the few designs that incorporate a button front, collar, sleeveless and side pockets, and is comfortable if not flattering.

I changed the front to get rid of the bulk and hence the bigger overlap...not one of my best adaptations. I was really hoping for a 60's 'mod, skivvy, under a shift look...not really achieved.
Not giving up the challenge though to find the perfect house dress.

Finally, a word of advice to new sewers. If you see a pattern you like, buy it. The patterns become discontinued so quickly and are often quite expensive to purchase. Also, with students using different sizes we have become excellent at using the tracing wheel to copy patterns of specific sizes. A good serrated one is best, possibly Clover as although a little more expensive, the quality is there.

Vintage fabric autumn frock, The Blue Fox

2017-02-24T10:24:00.000+11:00

Summer weather still makes the cotton dress the best and most versatile. The quest for the simple wearable dress continues here in the workshop with several patterns being trialled.
This week this vintage fabric that was in the stash for years, demanded to be called to service.

The colours of vintage fabric are so vibrant and jolly. I suspect the dyeing processes that were used then would not be permitted these days. The cotton was a little coarse and thicker than any you would buy today, but will be great for autumn.
To complement such a 'frocky' fabric I went a little vintage in the pattern.

Admittedly, I was swayed by the pattern illustration. I have used the pattern before so knew the sizing was good...no alterations needed other than changing the front..instead of the insert bib in the sailor collar I added a bias self fabric over the seam allowance as I found the neck a little generous.

Again my vintage stash was raided to cover the piping and make the 'rose'.

I opted to part topstitch the pleats in place. The finished frock was very satisfying and thrifty cutting left me with enough fabric for another garment.

Went to the very new The Blue Fox in Lithgow for dinner (a great 'bar and kitchen') and was elated to see so many frocks, many with heels. It really adds to the evening if such a great venue is complemented by great fashion.
Back to the simple dresses challenge.

House dresses with style

2017-01-30T18:39:00.000+11:00

In the 1930's married woman were having to adjust to a life without maids and but some compensation came with the advent of mechanisation of housework. Washing machines and vacuum cleaners were welcomed by these women. The Hoover vacuum was so popular a dress was named after the brand; the Hooverette.
The Hooverette was a cross between a dress and an apron. Women wore this garment while doing housework but it was also acceptable to have the neighbour in and even go to the shops.

The style reflected an effort to look presentable even though you were doing housework.
I think the housedress is due for a revival as we have become so enamoured of tights, hoodies and gymwear that we forget the boost a dress can give. It may even be possible that we have lost the confidence to wear a dress as an everyday item.
Over the past few years 'the apron' became popular however the reality is that most of the patterns are designed to look 'vintage' not be practical.
This year we are working our way through dress patterns that would be today's Hoovertette.
The patterns have to comply to the following criteria.

Comfort and ease of wear to be practical for physical activity
Ballerina flats, sandals, Mary-Janes with tights or boots will complement the dress so you can happily go out for coffee without having to change.
Can be easily washed
Can still look good after a day of activity
Pattern is easy and quick to make.
Preferably has pockets
Can be suitable for basic fabric so you can use fabric in your stash.

This weeks trial was chosen as it was quick to make, no gathering, no setting in sleeves, darts etc. It looks a little dated on the pattern envelope but just making it as a dress gives it a readaptation of the 'shift' in fresh summer style. It was made from go to whoa in under an hour including sewing the three buttons on. It was made from 1980's printed cotton. The style worked as it has a bodice attached to a straight lower section. This allows for darts to be dispensed with. Wearability and workability were excellent.

What better week to revive the little cotton dress!

Note turning up the sleeves and topstitching takes no time yet adds a nice finish.

Make Do and Sew Sustainably

2017-01-19T21:57:00.000+11:00

Have you noticed imported clothing has become more expensive yet poorer quality? The idea that you can have a disposable wardrobe runs contrary to a sustainable ideal. The report that Australians buy 27 kilos of new clothing a year, second only to USA, is not a statistic we can be proud of.

In our workshops we are really into making useful accessories from offcuts; gives you a great feel of satisfaction. Two 'farm basics' are quick, easy and indispensable. Sock savers can be tailored to not only add cheer but save hours of picking out barley grass seeds.

Fly veils are a summer staple, particularly in sheep country. This one is good as it gives protection from the sun by having fabric at the back.

We are rather pleased with this easy pattern for a mid season frock that everyone wants as it is comfortable but really stylish. It is a variation on Vogue 2325 Everyone who has made it are making several as the pattern is so good.
Hopefully it will be part of a range that will be for sale from the website.

Finally classes for the year are not yet posted but are ongoing. Regular weekly classes, Introductory and group requests. Just email and explain what you are looking for.
I urge those students who are going into Year 11 and perhaps wanting to do tailoring/dressmaking in Design and Technology, that a few classes are really helpful.

shirts and shortcuts

2016-01-26T10:33:00.000+11:00

The summer rains have given us the perfect excuse to trial patterns and finish projects. Our 'Half Made Never Finished ' workshops have been very cathartic for many wanting to start the new year on a positive note.

This year we will focus on specific areas of dressmaking every month for example shirts followed by tea dresses etc. I will print the full schedule up so you can plan ahead.

We started off with shirts and flew through patterns that looked easy but effective. The vintage Simplicity 1460 however was the most surprising, for creating a totally different look without too much effort.

It is a challenge to commit to a project knowing you are short of fabric. Improvising with contrasting facings is not only easy, but adds interest.

Trying to piece together bits to make a sleeve etc, can be time consuming but satisfying.

Two very quick patterns were impressive for such little effort. They both have several different looks and are well cut with flattering collars. This one took about 90 minutes. If you use big buttons for effect, don't make buttonholes. They will be ugly, sag and your machine will require you to do them manually; no fun at all. Instead sew on metal snap fasteners by hand and then sew the buttons on for effect. Don't forget whenever you are sewing buttonholes, buttons or snap fasteners, always ensure you have several fabric layers and preferably interfacing.

Similarly this McCalls Pattern was quick to make in less than two hours. Instead of finishing the raw edges by overlocking, pinking the edges is a great solution if you are time poor.

Finally traditional shirts were made using vintage patterns from the 1970's. These take longer as the collar stands, cuffs, plackets and buttonholes all add to sewing and finishing time.

Don't forget to check out the next focus area in February; vintage tea dresses.

Sewing sustainably, 'making do', collars with collar stands and collars in one piece, and the risks of the Grand Parade

2015-04-07T03:05:00.000+10:00

More often than not I choose fabric from my stash, not on adequate length, but on colour etc. Consequently I am often faced with the dilemma of 'half finished cutting out', and 'a metre short'. This is usually a trigger for optimism as the ensuing creative solution is more often than not, reasonably successful. Knowing you have used up bits and bobs of fabric is at least as satisfying as preparing a meal from the bottom of the fridge crisper!

There are several options to the 'short of fabric' dilemma.
1. Use offcuts with attention to matching stripes etc, to complete a project.

2. Use a contrast that suits.

3. Be creative and take risks. This was the ball gown that I ran out of curtain taffeta for. I got away with the bottom inserts as I used piping to separate the two parts. The result probably improved the garment as it gave added interest in detail.

The Royal Easter Show was a great time to head the showground to see the best livestock, riders, produce and crafts. A day at the show requires boots and look alike RM Williams shirts. Although time consuming to make, it is such an advantage to master collars, cuffs etc and have several favourite shirt patterns.How often I hear the frustrated cry of 'You can't buy a tailored white shirt anywhere'.
Over the next few weeks we are making shirts, both men's and lady's ,in the workshops. The choices, patterns and detail are huge so I will use this blog to show alternatives.
Collars are probably the most difficult part of a shirt. You can simplify the process by using a pattern with a collar and collar stand all in one piece.

If the pattern is good, the result will be nearly as good as using a pattern with the collar stand separate.

Finally, a photo of the Easter Show highlight; the Grand Parade. I never tire of seeing the livestock parade in the main arena. Often primary school children capably leading cattle and beautifully turned out riders, traps, heavy horses and champion pigs. The occasions when a bull takes off are always a source of nervous mirth but it is great to see a situation where OHand S is kept to a realistic level.

The return of the 'long/formal' dress for evening, pistachios and autumn harvest.

2015-03-23T00:22:00.001+11:00

Long or cocktail length for formal occasions?
This dilemma drove me quickly to see what was available so I could road test a few patterns. I was attracted to this Burda pattern as it has an elegance and is not fussy.

Not only did this pattern come together in a matter of hours but I managed to dispense with a zip

as I used a cotton with a little lycra from Cooper Street.

Autumn harvest is near complete as we are all surfeit with pears and chokos. The white cockatoos managed to finish off the unharvested walnuts so we have started to pick pistachios and thankfully the processing and salting is easy. It is always a surprise to taste the sweetness and colour of fresh green pistachios.

Rhubarb is still generous and finally we are looking at the abundance of olives and deciding on their fate. Autumn flowers also start to flower on shorter stems, ensuring enough seed set for future generations though presenting challenges for florists.

All old farm sheds have a pile of hessian potato and seed bags that are testament to many of the big agriculture firms and districts. These bags have recently become a collectors item.

Finally the Easter Show is starting Thursday. It is a great opportunity to see our best produce and livestock. Whether you are a dog, pig, horse or chook fancier, it is the best show in town!

Nightshirts, nightgowns and palazzo pants

2015-03-16T01:57:00.001+11:00

What happened to nightgowns? They seem to have disappeared into the ether along with any product that was a favourite at the supermarket! To add a bit of interest I piped in a bit of spotty bias and finished this great soft cotton with recycled buttons.
The same Butterick pattern is being used by one of our 'half-made-never-finished' sewers, to make a white cotton nightgown with lace inserts, using sheeting cotton that is very good quality and cheap as it is 2.4 cm wide.

An alternative to the nightgown is the nightshirt; so versatile it can be worn over leggings with a belt, worn loose as an artist's smock or used as intended. Again, the patterns are readily available and cotton chambray works well.

Staying on the theme of 'sleepwear', we moved a little to the bohemian in response to a student's request and evoked the 60's with a return of the palazzo pants. adaptation of This first attempt was actually an adaptation of a pyjama pattern, and cutting the pants on the bias. The result was so 60's that all that was needed was a wide brimmed floppy hat and the transportation to the 60's would be complete.

Thesurprise was their comfort combined with their incredible fluid style....they just feel great. The patterns are somewhat evocative of the lounge pyjamas of the 1920s. Next week we may make an opera coat to match.

Waistcoats,jodhpurs and the Tweed Run

2015-03-08T04:31:00.001+11:00

With the first days of autumn and the Beurre Bosc harvested,we sigh at the slowing pace of autumn and the satisfaction of the harvests. It is a time to contemplate picnics, cycling and horseriding, all enjoyed in crisp days with low slung sun and no flies.

The great outfits worn by the British cycling group called 'Tweed Run' were inspiration this week at the sewing workshop. They are a cycling group who favour traditional attire over lycra.

Waistcoats and jodhpurs are great outdoor activity attire, as they add a bit of style while being functional. The latest vest I made has a collar and four buttons. It is fully lined with two faux welt pockets. The vintage McCalls pattern has an excellent cut.

Finding a classic jodhpur pattern was a challenge.

Again, a search including 'vintage' was successful. There were plenty of patterns of jodhpurs with fitted hips but very difficult to find the classic style pattern with exaggerated.

This week in the Sewing Emporium we are making pellazo pants. These pants from the twenties are indicative of days spent recovering from high living. They were also known as Beach pyjamas and were quite full. I am sure Phryne Fisher would have favoured them; the trick will be to have the generous dimensions but not look swamped by the fabric. Tuesday and Thursday mornings will have workshops going; ring for details.

Agricultural Shows, ball season, making gowns and bounteous harvests

2015-02-24T14:03:00.000+11:00

This summer has been a cracker with the generous rainfall, temperatures in the 20's and harvests that continue to amaze.
Last week was the local Rydal Show. We hear so often how Ag shows are struggling. Rydal has strongly resisted any inroads of outside catering, continuing to have the old dining room with trestle tables, table cloths, morning and afternoon teas and hot lunches. Shepherd's pies and teas with lamingtons and pound cakes, local stewed peaches, jelly, steamed pudding and custard...the menu has changed little in 100 years and is still as popular! From my kitchen vantage point I think we broke all records. The car park was full as was the dining room.
Forty Bends managed a Grand Champion ribbon for our fruit as well as many firsts in vegetables.

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We have just finished quinces and nectarines. I have new found respect for quince jelly , a far superior product to quince paste I feel as the colour and piquancy is superior to the opaque paste.

Last Saturday evening we attended a fabulous ball at Abercrombie House Bathurst, a 19th century stone mansion built on the architecture of a Scottish Hunting Lodge. Unlike so many balls where dress code has eroded and dancing comes second to drinking, this ball was true to tradition. It was a revelation to me to experience a ball in all aspects that they were originally conceived.

The evening was a montage of delights from dining on the tessalated verandahs in the late summer warmth, enjoying the house as guests of the owners the Morgans, sublime tenor singing with the ballroom acoustics, refreshing tea with supper, dances to enjoy on a beautiful floor...but the best of all was the unhurried, long glorious unfolding of restrained indulgence.

Attendance required finding the tails and restarching vests. For my 1890's ball gown I set myself the task of using whatever was in my stash. Curtain fabric, richly textured but unfortunately 2 metres short of requirements, came to light. Creative additions to the bottom of the skirt solved the problem and the results were pleasing and comfortable though I will add a hooped petticoat for its next outing.

The next few months of balls will require a few more enjoyable hours making gowns...a pleasure as the purpose is so rewarding.

This week in the Summer Hill sewing workshop I am combining 'bicycle and horseriding wear' of vests and jodphurs....all in the preparations of autumn days that lend to such activities.

I am hoping that Sydneysiders will take the opportunity to come west of the mountains to a dressmaking workshop, lunch on farm produce and use their stay to explore the wonderful Hartley and surrounds and eventually join in country fun with balls, shows and perhaps even traditional rural sports.

Giant ironing board and seamstress duster coat

2015-01-17T10:16:00.001+11:00

The facilities at the new home for the Summer Hill Sewing workshops have been well and truly tested and they have passed with flying colours. The giant ironing board is proving to be indispensable, the huge cutting table facilitates very wide bolts of fabric and the industrial shed lights are wonderful.

We are working on the old idea of a work coat called a duster. Dusters were traditionally worn by tradespeople and horsemen to keep the dust off their clothes. Here is our first attempt...not happy with the pockets so will work on the design over the next few weeks. Some of our sewers attending the workshops are contributing to this project; it is a work in progress.

Hopefully it will result in the 'Seamstress Duster' I envisage as the practical garment to sew in.

Feel inspired?

2015-01-12T14:33:00.000+11:00

Now that 2015 is a reality, it is a great time to be innovative and creative with your wardrobe and accessories. How easy it is to put a little glamour and colour into the streetscape by dressing up instead of down. As Tom Ford said 'Dressing well is a form of good manners'.
At the new Summer Hill Sewing Emporium on the farm, we have been making frocks for summer. Nothing like putting on a frock with a jaunty pair of mules to soften the prospect of returning to work. Frocks are so much cooler and more comfortable than trousers or jeans.

You can go for the retro look or the classic shirtdress.

There are so many good patterns available your choice is unlimited. Here we used Simplicity pattern 1429 to make a waisted dress using retro look fabric..easy and very versatile.

We are now back into the swing of classes with our weekly 'Half-made-never-finished on Tuesday mornings and Friday evenings. Also we are starting a Thursday beginners group; ring or email to ask about times. If you are from Sydney or the mountains a Saturday workshop with friends may be the ideal get together.

Last open garden day at Forty Bends!

2014-11-09T11:52:00.001+11:00

The last open garden day at Forty Bends for the year. Again, this will be a fundraiser for the Lithgow City Brass Band and Peonies will be available for $1.00 per stem.

OPEN DAYS AT THE SEWING EMPORIUM FORTY BENDS

2014-09-23T13:11:00.000+10:00

Summer Hill Sewing Emporium has now finally reopened on our farm in South Bowenfels near Lithgow. We are starting classes and workshops the first week in October. Look at the calendar to see times. At this stage we appreciate all suggestions for courses and times.

This Thursday 25^th and Sunday 28^{th October} we are having an open day 2-4. As the green shoots and buds of spring are appearing it is a great time to visit the farm, see the exciting new home of Summer Hill Sewing and find the course or class that would best suit you.

This is an open day specifically for sewers or potential sewers. Unlike our Peony season fundraisers, we will not have the garden or farm ‘open’ . We can give you all the information on courses, see the great facilities and ask all the questions. Perhaps bring a few friends who may be interested in coming as a group.

Whether you are a complete novice or an experienced sewer, Summer Hill Sewing Emporium will have something for you.

If these times are not suitable please ring or email and we can make other arrangements.

Open day at Forty Bends

2014-09-09T11:06:00.000+10:00

Summer Hill Sewing Emporium has now finally reopened on our farm in South Bowenfels near Lithgow. We are starting classes and workshops next week. Look at the calendar to see times. At this stage we appreciate all suggestions for courses and times.

This Sunday 14^th and next Sunday 21^st we are having an open day 12-3pm. As the green shoots and buds of spring are appearing it is a great time to visit the farm, see the exciting new home of Summer Hill Sewing and find the course or class that would best suit you.

This is an open day specifically for sewers or potential sewers. Unlike our Peony season fundraisers, we will not have the garden or farm ‘open’. We can give you all the information on courses, see the great facilities and ask all the questions. Perhaps bring a few friends who may be interested in coming as a group.

Whether you are a complete novice or an experienced sewer, Summer Hill Sewing Emporium will have something for you.

For those from Sydney or the mountains, combine the trip with a visit to the Rydal Daffodil Festival.

Sydney Weekender comes to Summer Hill!

2012-11-22T15:56:00.003+11:00

Sarah, Joss and the team show Jason and Beck from Sydney Weekender around the Emporium!

Peonies at the Emporium

2012-11-09T18:35:00.000+11:00

School holiday sewing classes

2012-09-19T20:40:00.001+10:00

We are running various courses geared to students of all ages and abilities in the holidays.

Beginners 9-14 25th, 26th 27th 9-12 $172 Make cushion cover, tote bag and a stuffed owl.
Intermediate 9-15 Circle skirt 25th, 26th and 27th 1-3 $115

2nd, 3rd and 4th and 5th Basics of reading and sewing with a commercial pattern This is geared to students who have done at least 2 courses with us and who wish to learn about making clothes using a commercial pattern 9-12 $220

EMAIL IF INTERESTED

Make a Pattern from an Old Favourite/ Roman Blinds/ School holiday student's classes/ Move Over peter Alexander/Half Made Never Finished

2012-09-15T09:47:00.000+10:00

MAKE A PATTERN FROM AN OLD FAVOURITE: This class will run on Friday the 21st of September at 6:30-9pm. $60.

ROMAN BLINDS: We are currently running these classes on Saturday afternoons. $110. You can create professional window finishes that transform a room. Other 'Soft Furnishing' classes include ottomans cushions and bolsters.

STUDENT HOLIDAY CLASSES FOR 9-14 YEAR OLDS: Our classes aim to teach children sewing from a professional approach with engaging, fun projects undertaken with the right techniques. 3 mornings. $172.

MOVE OVER PETER ALEXANDER: This 5 week course teaches all the basics of reading commercial patterns, sewing and basic shirt construction techniques. You will make a classic nightshirt. $225.

HALF-MADE-NEVER-FINISHED: These regular classes are popular for sewers wanting to work on projects with professional guidance using Baby Lock Overlockers and machines. Most Friday nights from 6pm. $50.

Occasional Care available for toddlers while you sew MOPA, Patchwork, crochet etc

2012-08-07T23:34:00.001+10:00

Hi All,

Move Over Peter Alexander hopefully will start this Monday 13th August. $220 and runs for 5 weeks...spaces still available

Beginner's crochet hopefully starts Monday evening also 6.30 pm-8.30 pm $200 for 5 weeks..spaces still available

Boiled Wool Coat This Friday evening $85...spaces available. You need to purchase fabric from either The Fabric Store Cooper St or Tessutis Surrey Hills.

Still trying to get Beginner's Patchwork started on a Tuesday night; there may be interest in as a midweek daytime class (see below) or a Sunday....I welcome feedback to get this going

Also still trying to get skirts going.

There is good interest in the express dress and shawl coat...these will be run as 2X2 hour classes and will be incredibly productive.Come in have a look at them and try them on.
I thought there would be a lot of interest in the baby's heirloom blanket that would be great as an alternative shower tea. Perhaps there is concern that it could end up an unfinished project. The squares are quite quick to do. The borders are straight forward and Elizabeth will guide you through the blocking etc. I thought perhaps it could be come part of a large blanket as 'the baby' grew, incorporating say cricket bat,frock etc and eventually a dog, house etc....I really think it is worth another look.

At last I have found a local Occasional Childcare place that may be of interest to those mothers who want to take a morning class but have the issue of childcare. It is the Ashfield Baptist Childcare. They take 3 yrs and up as well as under 3. There is a time slot that is 8.30 am-11.30. am and the costs seem reasonable; around $30.00. It comes under the Occasional Care Program and Childcare Benefit is available to those who qualify.

I have spoken to them and they seem willing to try to work towards accommodating a small group of children whose mothers want to do a sewing session with us.

I envisage a group of 6 could drop their children off, do a class 9-11 eg Move Over Peter Alexander, and be back to pick children up by 11.30. I am under the impression if we asked for a weekly booking for a block, say 5 weeks every Wednesday, that that could be accommodated. It would add a further $150 to a 5 week class that would already cost $220 but I think it sounds like a good opportunity.ack. You may have a mother's group interested or wish to come alone; email me your feedback.

LOTS MORE ON OFFER...SOFT FURNISHINGS/ROMAN BLINDS/INTRO TO OVERLOOKING

EMAIL YOUT INTEREST

Regards

Saraaah

The latest at Summer Hill Sewing Emporium

2012-07-06T18:46:00.001+10:00

Hi All,

The Baby Lock Demonstration evening was excellent. I can now confidently say that MIchelle, who will be here every 6 weeks,is brilliant. When she comes we will run a demonstration evening. These are free and great entertainment. For any sewer they are very educational. Keep a look out.

If you are thinking of buying a sewing machine ...think again. These overlockers do every thing a sewer does other than buttonholes.

. CLASSES COMING UP

This Sat there is a vacancy in Intro to Machine Sewing. $95 9-12.

SCHOOL HOLIDAY CLASSES 1. 1. We had a successful Beginner's school student course this week. If there is the demand I can run one next week. It is 3 X3 hours $170 all fabric etc included. Designed for 9-14 yr olds they learn all the basics of machine sewing and make a bag, cushion cover and stuffed owl. 2. CIRCLE SKIRT MON/TUES 9th 10th July MORNING FOR THE POST BEGINNER/ INTERMEDIATE SEWER ...really suited to students who have done one of our courses or are doing textiles at school etc ...Make a circle skirt. You will draft, cut and construct the skirt over 2 mornings 9-12. The cost $115 does not include the cost of the fabric. We ask that you bring your own fabric; non stretch preferably cotton at least 112 cm wide ..3.5 metres. This little 2 daycourse will give lots of information for students of design etc. 3. KNITTING AND CROCHET FOR BEGINNERS: We are running hourly sessions $18.00 includes beginners needles and wool. Tuesday 10th Knitting 10-11, Crochet: 1-2, Friday 13th Knitting 10-11, crochet 1-2.

SOFT FURNISHINGS: Sat afternoons 1-3.30 $200 This course will run for 4 weeks. Starts 14th July. We will provide machines and notions but you have to bring the , calico and sand. You have to bring fabric, trims ans foam(if doing ottoman) and buy (we will supply) Roman blind hardware. We will do 3 types of cushions, buttons , zipper and piping.Bolsters are an option. Door stops and draught excluders (sausages). Roman Blinds and or ottomans depending on demand. You must be able to sew and you can (but of course don't need to), bring your own machine.
EXTRA OVERLOCKING CLASS: For all those who can't make a Saturday we are running an extra overlocking class Thursday 12 6-9 pm $95.. If you are planning to do a course with us get this class under your belt.
SKIRTS : Start 19th JUly 6 weeks $300.
Boiled Wool Coat 20th and 27th July. 6.30-8.30 $85..must bring your own fabric and come to get pattern. Overlocker course prerequisite.
Patchwork for beginners 24th July 6.30-9pm Runs for 4 weeks, gives you all the basics and gets you started on a project. $200.
Knitting and Crochet for beginners...new courses starting again soon; Evenings Thursday/Fri. 5 weeks $200
Knitting/Crochet workshop SAT AFTERNOON.
HMNF not on this week
BABY'S BLANKET...Look on 'News' On website' Why not get a group of f girls and do one
EMAIL IF INTERESTED

Regards

Sarah

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www.sewingemporium.com.au

Baby shower for expectant mothers

2012-06-30T14:20:00.000+10:00

Organise your shower tea at Summer Hill Sewing Emporium and create a beautiful heirloom baby's blanket.

Details of School Student Holiday Courses

2012-06-21T16:00:00.001+10:00

We hope to run several holiday courses for different ages and competencies. The times these will run will be determined by the demand.

BEGINNERS: 9-14 yr olds. 3X3 hour sessions. Probably Monday Tuesday Wednesday 2nd/ 3rd/4th 9-12 noon $170.

This course may be repeated Week 2 9th, 10th,11th July 9am-12 noon.

Look below to see the cushion cover, bag and owl that are the projects made. all fabrics included.

BEGINNERS:13-14 yr olds 3X3 hours. Perhaps 1-4pm Monday, Tues,Wed 2nd, 3rd,4th. July. $170. Make a bag and pyjamas pants.

All fabric included

POST BEGINNERS: (Those who have done a course with us or are COMPETENT machine sewers) 2X2 hour course...Make pyjamas pants. $75.

This class may run Thursday 5th Friday 6th June 10-12 but we are flexible.

CIRCLE SKIRT: For those who have done the Post beginners. In this class you draft the pattern, cut out and construct. You learn waistband and zipper insertion as well as hems. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 9th, 10,11th 1-3pm ...$110.00 (You must bring your own fabric.)

CROCHET/KNITTING FOR BEGINNERS: WE hope to run one hour session in each of these. The cost includes Crochet hook/ wool OR needles/ wool. It is hoped that if there is the demand we could have several classes running during the 2 weeks that students once started can book into. $18.00 for the first hour, $15 following hour long sessions.

PLEASE EMAIL FOR BOOKINGS

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www.sewingemporium.com.au

School Student's Holiday Courses

2012-06-21T13:51:00.000+10:00

Sydney you need to start sewing!

2012-06-19T01:34:00.001+10:00

Remember the mantra that essentials were food,clothing and shelter? We have become so used to outsourcing that most city dwellers have lost the skills to produce these essential items.

Why bother when you can buy them cheaply?..., natural advantage and economies of specialisation was the answer from a high school text. This fails to recognise changing labour costs over time and the importance of retaining knowledge within a society. I am amazed that so many customers say their grandmothers were seamstresses and now there is a demand for machinists and seamstresses that cannot be filled.There is arrogance and hubris in a society that believes they will always be able to afford to employ someone to provide these essential services. By losing the knowledge we put ourselves at a disadvantage.

Hence my overture to Sydney to start sewing!

Classes coming that have vacancies

Draft and make a skirt that fits ...Thursday evenings starting July 12th...6 weeks $300
School holidays student classes 9-14 ...for beginners and post beginners. It really works well if a few friends come together.
Introduction to patchwork and quilting Tuesday evenings starting, hopefully,July 3rd 4 weeks $200

Again I encourage everyone to really think about HALF MADE NEVER FINISHED, on a Friday nigh, $50t and KNITTING AND CROCHETING CIRCLE ON SATURDAY AFTERNOON. $40 I am sure once people realise the benefits and how flexible and enjoyable these classes are they would really take off.

Consider

Classes are stand alone...you don't have to commit to course hence are ideal for shift workers

you can work on your own project under the guidance of Joss or Elizabeth . Choose a pattern and be guided through with support.

The group dynamic is a great way to exchange ideas, be stimulated and encouraged as well as have an enjoyable few hours.

We have a fabulous store of patterns most of which are tried so we can give you advice and suggestions.

Suggestions for a Friday night include sewing children's outfit, cushions and bolsters, make yourself a dress/ skirt.

Suggestions for Saturday afternoon include bringing along your half made jumper to get the impetus to finish it, come with neither wool nor pattern and we can get you started on a project, get help blocking and sewing up granny squares etc

Don't forget those interested in boiled wool coat to call in to check sizes and after Thursday pick up pattern

Don't forget to book into FREE Baby Lock demonstration 28th June 6.30-8.30

All of the above you need to email for bookings ...that includes Friday Half made never finished and Sat afternoon Knit and Crochet

NOTE : The shop will be CLOSED today TUESDAY due to unavoidable commitments

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www.sewingemporium.com.au