The Couture Sewing School - The Tailored Jacket - Starts 27th July 2026

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. You can choose from one of the jackets pictured

The jacket will be made using traditional techniques, applying canvas, pad stitching, welt pockets and buttonholes will all be covered.

During the workshop we will make a toile to check the fit then continue to start the couture construction of the jacket.  As mentioned before, couture sewing takes time, it is unlikely the dress will be finished in the workshop but you will have everything you need to complete the dress at home.

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 jacket and toile fabric is included in the workshop price, you will nee to bring

Once you have chosen the style of jacket you would like to make I will send a materials list.  

Please Note:  I do not have all of the sizes in all of the patterns, some can be traced and graded but some I will not be able to do this to - please have a second choice ready.

Canvas, interfacings & shoulder pads as well as many other notions can be purchased in the Sewing Room    

Level: Intermediate/Advanced

Venue: The Midhurst Sewing Room

Date: 27th, 28th, 29th, 30th & 31st July 2026

Workshop Start/End time: 10am - 5pm

Workshop Duration: 5 days

Workshop Tutor: Claire Tyler