Garment Construction – Empire Line Dress

ONLY SUITABLE FOR LEARNERS WHO HAVE COMPLETED THE PATTERN DRAFTING - BODICE & SLEEVE BLOCK COURSES
AGE 18+ WOMEN ONLY CLASS - Full day class

This course is designed for learners who already have a bodice, sleeve block, and foundational sewing skills and want to develop expertise in pattern adaptation and garment construction.  Participants will learn how to transform a basic bodice block into a complete empire line dress, covering every stage from pattern adaptation to fabric preparation, cutting, and complete garment assembly.

Through a combination of practical demonstrations and hands-on exercises, learners will acquire the knowledge and confidence to accurately adapt patterns, execute finishes such as necklines and zippers, and construct a wearable empire line dress to their size.

By the end of the course, participants will have a deeper understanding of pattern manipulation, garment construction techniques, and the workflow from block to finished dress.

Our courses are designed to suit your needs.  For the experienced sewist, you may only want to learn how to draft the pattern; alternatively, you can opt for the Combo, which teaches both pattern drafting and garment construction.  

Key Learning
  • Identify and describe structural differences between basic bodice blocks and empire line silhouettes
  • Take accurate body and bodice measurements and calculate adjustments for pattern adaptation
  • Adapt a bodice block to create an empire line dress pattern
  • Prepare, lay, and cut fabric with correct grain alignment and precision
  • Draft a U neckline pattern and its corresponding facing and finish on the garment
  • Prepare and sew a centred zipper
  • Assemble bodice and skirt sections to form a balanced and well-fitted garment
  • Produce a completed empire line dress to individual measurements
  • Develop confidence in pattern manipulation and dressmaking techniques for further creative projects
You will need to bring

Please do not bring heavy, slippery, stretchy, or sheer fabrics

  • Your bodice and sleeve pattern
  • Your appropriate choice of pattern drafting paper
  • 2.5m to 3.5m (approx 150cm/60" wide) cotton (lawn/poplin) fabric
  • 1m fusible interfacing
  • Matching colour thread
  • 41cm (16") to 56cm (22") standard zip (not an invisible zip)

Tools and equipment will be provided; we cannot accommodate using your sewing machine.

Tea and coffee will be provided; we recommend bringing lunch, or you can visit one of the local cafes/shops.

Location

91 Ayres Road, Manchester, M16 7GS