The Couture Sewing School - The Blouse - Starts Thursday 13th November 2025 FULLY BOOKED

Couture sewing takes time and patience.  Much of the construction is done by hand often because the fabrics are tricky and there could be complicated design details. Since spending time with Claire Shaeffer, who is an internationally respected author, lecturer and columnist and has a collection of over 2000 couture garments,  I have been inspired to do more couture sewing and share some of these skills.

On this workshop we will be using a pattern by Claire Shaeffer's Custom Couture Collection for Vogue.  This range of patterns has been discontinued and I have been lucky enough to obtain the remaining stock to use in workshops.

The blouse is "made by hand."  In haute couture, this term describes the procedure for shaping a garment by hand with an abundance of basting and hand finishing. 

The blouse design includes a variety of details which will enhance your pleasure and comfort when worn.  The darted collar frames the face attractively. The sleeve shape provides generous ease for mobility while maintaining the aesthetics of the design when the arm is straight.  The ease on the back shoulder fits the body smoothly and provides a comfortable fit.  Lingerie guards control undergarment straps to prevent them from falling off the shoulders.  The snaps on the French cuffs hold the cuffs in place at the wrists.  Custom made button links allow you to create attractive fasteners.  

During the workshop we will make a toile to check the fit then continue to the couture construction of the blouse.

What You Need To Bring: The Sewing Room is fully equipped with Janome Sewing Machines and Overlockers as well as all the tools you need to complete your project. You are very welcome to bring your own machine and sewing box if you wish.

Materials Needed : The pattern for the blouse is included in the workshop price, you will nee to bring

2.6m of 150cm wide woven fabric such as crepe de chine or handkerchief linen, 50cm of 150cm wide silk organza, small shoulder pads, 8 x 20mm buttons, snaps, hooks & eyes, 5 yards of 20mm flat lace trim (optional)

Many of the notions can be purchased in the Sewing Room    

Level: Intermediate/Advanced

Venue: The Midhurst Sewing Room

Date: 13th, 14th, 15th & 16th November 2025

Workshop Start/End time: 10am - 5pm

Workshop Duration: 4 days

Workshop Tutor: Claire Tyler