Gain the knowledge to skillfully create everything from potholders to detailed dresses and more!
Whether you are a seasoned pro, or just want to learn how to sew a button, Stratford's Sewing and Dressmaking course can help you learn a variety of sewing techniques from basic to advanced.
This course is an excellent opportunity to combine your creativity with your technical skills to create beautiful clothing and accessories sure to impress your friends and family.
The course also covers sewing for profit, which means this program could be an excellent stepping stone toward adding a little money in your pockets or even starting a new career.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the median annual salary for tailors, dressmakers, and custom sewers is $37,230.* Salaries can vary depending on the place of employment, educational attainment and specific duties performed.
Introduction to Sewing and Fabric • Your Sewing Machine
• Sewing Machine Operation
• Sewing Aids
• Fiber and Fabrics
• Knits and Patterns
• Fabric Selection
• Preparation and Care
• Special Fabrics and Special Cuttings
Construction of a Garment • Adjusting the Pattern
• Layout, Cutting, and Marking
• Stitching and Seam
• Fitting and Shortcuts
• Darts and Gathers
• Pleats and Plackets
• Facings
• Ruffles and Collars
• Sleeves
Finishing Techniques • Pockets
• Cuffs, Sleeve Finishes, Casings and Waistbands
• Belts and Zippers
• Buttonholes and Button Selection
• Closures
• Bias and Bias Binding
• Decorative Trimmings
• Hems and Lining a Garment
• Alterations and Remodeling
• Sewing for Men and Boys
• Construction Techniques for Women's Pants
• Sewing for Infants and Children
Beyond The Basics of Sewing for Fun and Profit • Potholders
• Holiday Items
• Gifts and Accessories
• Toys
• The Tourist Trade and Resort Wear
• Teaching Others and Practice Projects
• Ideas for Fun and Profit
• Additional Practice Projects
This educational program is an introductory course designed to help students gain knowledge necessary for the vocational application of this subject.
We take great pride in providing you with the most up-to-date textbooks and equipment. One or more of the above-mentioned subjects may, therefore, change if updating becomes necessary during the course of your studies. The order in which the course material is presented may vary.
*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2021 Edition
Do I need a sewing machine to complete the course?
No, a sewing machine is not required to complete Stratford's Sewing and Dressmaking course. The course content focuses primarily on learning the fundamental principles of a variety of sewing and dressmaking techniques.
