90-minute workshop – cost £24.00

[Max 10 people]

Join Mercedes and learn the tips and techniques for three different methods of zip insertion. Starting with the centred zip you will then move on to the lapped zip and then finish with the invisible zip. All three methods will be useful additions to your garment and home-ware sewing.

Advisory Note:

Suitable for over 16’s only. Experience using a sewing machine would be useful.

Meet the Tutor

Mercedes Ferrari-Plumridge

Mercedes was a contestant on series 5 of the Great British Sewing Bee (2019). She lives just outside Brighton with her husband Graham and their two cats, Maggie and Erica. Having worked in IT for over 20 years and serving as a reservist for 13, Mercedes has a passion for all things technical and wants to know the ins and outs and whys of everything.  Mercedes enjoys utilising fabrics from all sources in her sewing projects while using traditional and developing new techniques.  

90-minute workshop – cost £24.00

[Max 10 people]

Sew a mini self-care kit for yourself or to gift to someone else. In this class, Lauren will guide you into make a silk lined, padded, wrap around eye mask along with sustainable reusable makeup/ skincare wipes.  

Advisory Note:

Suitable for beginners, over 16’s years.

Meet the Tutor

Lauren Tedstone

Lauren Tedstone, quarterfinalist of series 9 of BBC’s Great British Sewing Bee (2023). Her machine, given to her many years before by her grandmother was finally put to use in late 2019 when Lauren taught herself to sew. Starting with small projects for her children, Lauren then went on to garment sewing and is on a journey to curate and create a complete handmade wardrobe. A big lover of fashion trends, she loves creating key timeless classics that have professional finishes and longevity. Lauren is also a family orientated person, often sewing for her children and family. 

60-minute workshop – cost £17.00

[Max 10 people]

This class is a wonderful opportunity for beginners and experienced sewers alike to enhance their skills and create beautiful projects. Y seams are a unique sewing technique used to connect three or more fabric pieces together at angles that cannot be sewn using regular straight seams. In this class, you will learn all the essential techniques and tips to successfully sew Y seams, including marking and cutting fabric, sewing accurate seams, and achieving smooth and professional finish.

Clive will ensure that you gain confidence and mastery in sewing Y seams. Whether you are interested in quilting, garment construction, or any other sewing project, this class will equip you with the skills to tackle complex designs and create stunning creations. Join this sewing class and unlock a whole new world of sewing possibilities with Y seams!

Advisory Note:

Suitable for beginners, 16 years plus.

Meet the Tutor

Clive Bruder

Clive started sewing when he was around 10 years old. With the help of his Mum he made some curtains for their home on an old hand cranked Singer sewing machine that was gifted to them by a relative. Ever since Clive has been hooked on sewing.

He went on to college to study textile design, followed by The University College for the Creative Arts in Epsom, to achieve a Fashion BA Honours Degree.

Over the past few years with the support of family and friends Clive was encouraged to start his own business Bruderful Design. Unfortunately like many, his business was badly impacted by COVID, but despite the pandemic he’s been extremely lucky with new exciting opportunities. This included a regular guest slot on Sewing Street TV, the launch of @WeSewToo and along with his husband Mark he has attended many sewing shows and together with Mark’s successful brand, they have released lots of sewing patterns too.

Clive says, “Nothing makes me happier than being at my sewing machine and being creative.”