How to Use Your Sewing Machine

This course is available for enrolment.

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Course code: C58A

A one-day workshop for beginners who would like to gain confidence using their sewing machine and explore its various functions, settings, and accessories.

when: From 06 Nov 2026
Friday 09:30-15:30 One day
Tutor: Ann Huntley

where

location to be advised

fees

full fee for this course £67.00, concession fee £44.00

who

Bristol Adult Learning

stokelodge@bristol.gov.uk

0117 903 8844

Description

A welcoming workshop for beginners who would like to gain confidence setting up and using their sewing machine, while exploring threading, bobbin winding, machine controls, basic troubleshooting, and essential maintenance.

What can students expect?

You will learn how to get the most out your machine and how to use it. The workshop will cover:

<ul>
<li>Identifying the different parts of the machine</li>
<li>Threading the machine</li>
<li>Changing a needle</li>
<li>Identifying different stitches and their uses</li>
<li>Choosing the correct stitch for different fabrics</li>
<li>Key functions of the sewing machine</li>
<li>Identifying various sewing feet and accessories and their uses</li>
</ul>

You will put this into practice by making a small project (if you choose) to take home or by making samples for future reference. 

Please alert the tutor if you need help getting your machine from the car. You may be able to borrow a sewing machine from Stoke Lodge, but it will be less useful as it will not be the same as your machine.

Late starters allowed?

No.

Previous experience required?

No.

What is the progression route?

Learners can enrol on one of the many sewing courses at Stoke Lodge.

Are there any extra costs?

No. Fee includes fabric and thread for the project and to practise on.

What should students bring?

<ul>
<li>Your sewing machine, accessories and instruction manual</li>
<li>A pencil and note pad for note taking </li>
<li>Reading glasses if worn</li>
</ul>

<ul>
<li>Scissors </li>
<li>Hand sewing needles and thread </li>
<li>Tape measure </li>
<li>Seam un-picker </li>
<li>Pins</li>
<li>Lunch</li>
</ul>

Teaching method/style?

Group instruction, individual support, and practical demonstrations.

Course Cancellations and Refunds

If we cancel your course

<ul>
<li>You will receive a full refund of course fees.</li>
<li>We are not responsible for any additional costs, such as materials already purchased.</li>
</ul>

If you cancel

<ul>
<li>7 days or more before the start date: refund minus a 20% administration fee.</li>
<li>Less than 7 days before the start date or after the course has started: no refund provided.</li>
<li>Enrolments are non-transferable. If you are unable to attend, you will not be able to send another person in your place.</li>
</ul>

Refund processing

<ul>
<li>Refunds for online or telephone enrolments will be made via the original payment method within 14 days of approval. </li>
<li>If you enrolled in the office, you will need to come in with your payment card to arrange a refund.</li>
</ul>

Transfers

<ul>
<li>7 days or more before the start date: transfer minus a 10% transfer fee.</li>
<li>Less than 7 days before the start date or after the course has started: no transfer provided.</li>
<li>All transfers are subject to availability.</li>
<li>Transfers between Language levels may be possible with less than 7 days’ notice, subject to availability.</li>
<li>Enrolments are non-transferable. If you are unable to attend, you will not be able to send another person in your place.</li>
<li>If we cancel your course, and you wish to transfer to another course this will be free of charge.</li>
</ul>

Illness and non-attendance

<ul>
<li>We recognise that illness and unforeseen circumstances may arise. However, please note that we are unable to offer refunds, credits, or transfers for missed sessions due to ill health or non-attendance.</li>
</ul>