Description
Sew The Donny Shirt, All State Shirt or Wren Blouse – Choose Your Pattern…
Workshop Dates:
• Tuesday 23rd June | 9:30am – 4:30pm
Join us for a relaxed and creative day of sewing, where you’ll make your own shirt or blouse under the expert guidance of experienced sewing tutor Emma Smith. With a choice of three carefully selected patterns, including a classic unisex shirt design, this workshop is suitable for a wide range of styles, sizes and makers.
Throughout the day, Emma will guide you step by step through the construction of your chosen garment, helping you develop a range of dressmaking techniques and build confidence in garment making. Depending on your chosen pattern, you’ll learn skills such as sewing collars, cuffs, button bands, sleeves and buttonholes, as well as achieving a neat, professional finish.
What will I make?
For this workshop, you can choose from one of three stylish and versatile patterns:
• The Donny Shirt by Friday Pattern Company
• The All State Shirt by Merchant & Mills
• The Wren Blouse by Chalk and Notch
Photographs of all three garments can be found in the workshop images to help you choose your preferred style.
Each pattern has been selected for its timeless appeal, versatility and inclusive size range. The All State Shirt by Merchant & Mills is a classic unisex, workwear-inspired shirt with a relaxed, boxy silhouette and traditional shirtmaking details, while the Donny Shirt and Wren Blouse offer two contemporary alternatives with their own distinctive styles.
IMPORTANT: When booking, please tell us which pattern you would like to make by adding your choice to the Special Instructions box at checkout. We need this information before the workshop so we can ensure the correct paper pattern is available for you on the day.
The official paper pattern for your chosen garment is included in the workshop price, and you’ll take it home with you afterwards.
Fit and Support
Shirts and blouses can sometimes require small fitting adjustments, and Emma will be on hand throughout the day to help with this. She has extensive experience supporting makers with fitting issues and will guide you through any adjustments needed so your garment fits comfortably and works for your body.
About the Workshop
This is also a chance to spend an inspiring day sewing alongside like-minded people in a friendly, supportive environment. Whether you come on your own or with a friend, you’ll enjoy dedicated sewing time, new skills and plenty of encouragement.
Led by experienced sewing teacher Emma Smith, the workshop is taught at a steady, supportive pace with plenty of opportunity for individual guidance and questions throughout the day.
If you’d like help choosing fabric, just let us know — we’re always happy to help. You’re also welcome to arrive 30 minutes early to choose and purchase fabric in the shop.
There will be a ½-hour break for lunch.
A friendly and supportive day of sewing, learning and creating — and hopefully the start of many handmade shirts and blouses to come.
What do I need to bring?
• A sewing kit with essentials: small scissors, large scissors, pins or clips, hand sewing needles, fabric marking tool and a seam ripper
• Materials for your garment (see workshop images for fabric requirements), or purchase in store
• If buying supplies on the day, please arrive 30 minutes early
• A notebook for tips and notes
• A water bottle
Attendees receive 10% off shop purchases when spending over £25 on the day.
What’s included
• Tea, coffee and biscuits/cake
• Use of Janome 5060QDC sewing machines, overlockers, ironing boards and irons
• Small class size (5–6 people) for plenty of individual attention
• A paper copy of your chosen pattern to keep
Location & Access
The Fabric Boutique, 5 Rushtons Yard, Ashby de la Zouch LE651AL. The studio is accessed via stairs.
Parking is available in Rushtons Yard Car Park (3-hour limit, charges apply) or nearby long-stay parking on South Street.
Please arrive 10 minutes before the class starts.
Important Information
This class is not suitable for complete beginners. You should have some experience using a sewing machine and basic dressmaking skills. If you are new to dressmaking, we recommend starting with our Introduction to Dressmaking workshop.
Most participants make significant progress during the workshop, and many complete their garment. Any remaining steps will be clearly explained so you can finish confidently at home.
Booking, Terms & Conditions
• Pre-booking is essential as places are limited
• Places are reserved once payment has been made
• Payment is required in full at the time of booking
• Gift cards may be used
• Minimum class size: 3 participants
• Classes are for ages 18+
Cancellation & Refund Policy
• Full refund if The Fabric Boutique cancels the class
• Cancellations up to 14 days prior receive a refund or transfer (subject to availability)
• Cancellations within 14 days are non-refundable
• Refunds are processed promptly (please allow up 7-10 working days for bank processing, although it is usually much sooner).