Beginners Sewing Course XL – 2 days

This 2-day introductory sewing course is a good starting point to learn expert techniques whether you want to progress into dressmaking, soft furnishing or craft projects. It’s also a great refresher if you’ve not sewn for a while. Why is it called ‘XL’? – because it’s an extended version of my classic ‘Beginners sewing course’.  It has two additional projects to make. This extra practice gives you 50% more fun, and twice as much confidence.

This course runs on Friday 28th &  Sat 29th August 2026 10am-5pm.

You’ll learn how to understand sewing machines, get experience of using different stitch types,  learning about stitch lengths, widths and tensions. I’ll explain what the different presser feet are for and you’ll learn how to measure and cut fabric. There’s a session on mending too, so you can bring along any garments that are damaged and I’ll show you how to fix them or how to take up those hems.

I’ve been sewing since I was a child and that’s a lot of years experience. During that time, I’ve made every mistake in the book and learnt how to avoid them. Now you can benefit from my mistakes and learn to sew like a pro as I share my expert tips. I wish I’d known all this stuff when I started to sew.

Who is the Beginners Sewing Course XL aimed at?

• Absolute Beginners (if you’ve never used a sewing machine before)
• Novice sewists (if you’ve recently learned and would like to know a bit more)
• Lapsed sewists (as a refresher if you haven’t sewn for a while)
• Adults aged 16 years and over

Level: Beginners (or as a refresher if you haven’t sewn for a while)

What will I learn?

• How to use a sewing machine safely and confidently
• How to wind bobbins and thread a sewing machine
• Understand the importance of correct thread tension
• How to sew perfect straight lines, smooth curves and turn corners
• Learn three different seam types and when to use them
• How to take up hems by machine and by hand
• Make machined buttonholes and how to sew in a zip
• Sewing machine maintenance – how to clean and look after your machine
• Mending:  repair tears or split seams, sew on buttons
• How to make three great sewing projects to practice your new skills:
•          a lined reversible tote bag,
•          a zipped make-up bag
•          I-pad/tablet cover (Bonus project to complete at home using a video tutorial)

All fabrics are included.

Why choose Artisan Stitch?

Artisan Stitch holds a Certificate of Excellence and is rated ‘Best sewing classes in Edinburgh’.  A UK Enterprise award followed for Best Sewing Classes 2020 and the Best Private Sewing Education & Tuition 2021, Best Creative Textiles Workshop  2022/3, Best Craft Course Provider 2023/24 and Best Sewing Tuition provider 2024/25, 2025/26, and 2026/7.

Artisan Stitch is the only course provider in Edinburgh and one of only two in Scotland, that is recommended by Queen Margaret University.

Why would you trust your sewing journey to anyone else? 

Must be pre-booked direct with Artisan Stitch here
Enquiries to: jen@artisanstitch.co.uk 

Location details

How to find St Margaret’s House

Directions