Your first stitches at Sylva
- Helen

- Jan 24
- 2 min read
If you’ve ever felt drawn to sewing but unsure where to begin, my Intro to Sewing workshop is the perfect place to start. This beginner workshop is designed for those who are completely new to sewing – or who feel they need to begin again – and offers a calm, unhurried introduction to making. Set in my garden studio and guided with care, it’s an invitation to slow down and discover the quiet satisfaction of making your first stitches.

Here’s what you can expect when you join me:
A beginner-friendly day
The workshop runs for around six hours, giving us plenty of time to explore the basics without feeling rushed. You’ll leave feeling confident and with something you’ve made yourself.
If you’ve never used a machine before or if you’ve always been a little intimidated by it then this workshop is ideal for you.
We start at the very beginning
You’ll learn how to:
thread a sewing machine
adjust stitch tension, length and width
choose fabrics
use a simple paper pattern
cut fabric
sew a basic bag.
The skills you pick up in this sewing session will provide the foundation to start making your own clothes.
Everything you need is included
Use of the studio’s sewing machines and tools
A selection of fabrics to choose from
Paper pattern and printed instructions
All notions and equipment you’ll need
Sweet treats and drinks
You’ll just need to bring yourself and a packed lunch for our short lunch break.
A supportive atmosphere
Workshops are intentionally kept 1:1 so I can give you all the support you need – although there is the option to book in one friend or relative with you if you’d like to learn together.
There’s no pressure to be perfect – only encouragement to explore, ask questions and take your time. My hope is that this session feels like a creative pause in your week.
What you’ll leave with
By the end of the day, you’ll have:
a basic sewing project you’ve made
practical understanding of a sewing machine
confidence to try things on your own
And, quite possibly, the feeling that sewing is for you after all!
If you’ve been wanting to learn to sew but weren’t sure where to start, I’d love to welcome you into the studio. You can find upcoming Intro to Sewing dates on the workshops page – and if you don’t see a date that fits, just get in touch. I’m always happy to help you find a time that works.
And if you feel like you’ve already got your head around the basics but you’re not sure where to go from there, you’re very welcome to book in a Sew Support consultation with me to discuss your options. Or if know you’re ready to jump in and make a garment, my Level Up sewing session is the one for you.
Slow, sensory and grounded in the joy of making – I can’t wait to sew with you, one stitch at a time.

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