Machine Sewing
Learning to sew opens up a whole world of creative possibilities. Whether you have a sewing machine that you have never quite got to grips with, are returning to sewing after a break, or would like to develop your existing skills, our sewing workshops are designed to help you become more confident using your machine and discover what you can create with it.
Starting with the basics of setting up and controlling your sewing machine, you can progress through appliqué, zips and buttonholes to more creative free-motion sewing techniques. Each stage gives you the opportunity to practise new skills while making something you can take away and enjoy.
We have highlighted some of the sewing workshops available here at RE Treats Plymouth below. If the workshop you are looking for isn't currently running, there is a particular sewing technique you would like to learn, or you would prefer to learn on your own, please get in touch and we will do our best to accommodate your request.
First Stitches
If your sewing machine has been sitting in its box because you're not quite sure where to start, this is the perfect introduction. Learn how to set up and use your own machine, practise controlling your stitching and build confidence with the essential skills you need to start sewing. You'll put those skills into practice by making a cushion to take home.
Applique Away!
Discover how appliqué can be used to add colour, shape and personality to your sewing projects. You'll learn how to prepare, position and stabilise your design before exploring different ways to secure and embellish it using your sewing machine. Use your new skills to create an appliqué patch ready to add to a bag.
Zip It or Button It!
Zips and buttonholes can seem daunting, but understanding how to prepare and stitch them makes a huge difference. You'll practise the techniques needed to position and insert zips, create buttonholes and attach buttons securely before using your new skills to make a cushion or pencil case.
Freestyling
Take your sewing beyond straight lines and discover the creative possibilities of free-motion sewing. Learn how to set up your machine, choose suitable fabrics and stabilisers, and control the movement of your stitching as you experiment with creating your own designs. Your finished piece can be framed or used to embellish homewares or a garment.
Build your skills step by step
Start at the stage that matches your current experience and progress through the workshops as your confidence and skills develop. You don't have to start at the beginning if you already have some experience.
Workshops are kept small, so places are limited on each date.
See what our learners achieve
From lost sewing mojo to making independently again
Starting point:
Yvonne was already an experienced home sewer and had completed lots of projects in the past. However, she had lost her sewing mojo and wanted some guidance to help her get back to making again. She had a particular project in mind — creating and decorating a cushion for her grandchildren.
Her progress:
With guidance and support at RE Treats, Yvonne began working through her cushion project, making decisions about how she wanted to create and decorate it and rediscovering the skills she already had.
What she achieved:
As the project progressed, Yvonne reached the point where she no longer needed the same level of guidance and was able to continue working independently again.
Yvonne working on her personalised cushion project for her grandchildren.
In her words:
I finally completed one cushion with Elaine's help and now I just need to sew the back on this cushion and put the zip in the other one to complete the pair! Hooray!
- Yvonne
Ready to get started? Take a look at the current workshops and find your first step.
More ways to learn and create
Our sewing workshops don't stop here! Throughout the year you'll also find a changing selection of creative and seasonal projects, giving you the opportunity to practise your sewing skills while making something a little different.
From bags, cushions and useful items for your home to gifts, decorations and creative projects, there's always something new to make. Take a look at View current workshops to see what's currently available.
If there is a particular sewing technique or project you would like to tackle, or you would prefer to learn on your own, bespoke one-to-one sessions are also available. Get in touch and we can discuss what you would like to learn and create a session around you.
Need supplies for your machine sewing?
If you're building your sewing kit or looking for useful tools and materials, take a look at my machine sewing recommendations in the RE Treats Amazon shop. I've brought together useful craft supplies in one place to make it easier to find what you need.
