Have you felt the presence of something under your bed, in your cupboard, tucked away in a cardboard box gathering dust, afraid to open it . . . is it an overlocker??! So many times sewists make this key purchase only to be intimidated by the number of dials and hooks or it becomes unthreaded so you consign it to the dark. Let us help you bring your overlocker back into the light and show you how to get the most out of your machine.

In this workshop, we will teach you the skills and techniques so that you have the confidence to start using your overlocker as an integral part of your sewing projects.

What you'll learn:

• The basic anatomy of the overlocker
• How to thread up and change threads
• The basic set up and adjustment, including tension wheels, cutting blade and differential feed
• 3 and 4 thread overlocking; changing the needles
• Sewing simple seams on woven and jersey fabrics
• How to overlock around curves and corners

Is this class for you? This class is suitable for complete overlocker beginners and those who want to brush up on their skill set.

Materials: On the day you will need to bring the following;

• Your overlocker, complete with instruction booklet
• Tweezers - your overlocker usually comes with a selection of tools, please bring everything!
• 4 reels of cotton of different colours. We recommend Coats Moon thread 1000m reels, rather than the big cones. We sell Moon threads in the shop if you don't have any.
• Fabric marker pens: Frixion/iron off biros are perfect

You will also need thread snips and fabric scissors. You may prefer to bring your own but if you don't have yours to hand we have plenty in the studio you can use.

About your Teacher:  Jo gained her experience in the fashion industry as a designer/pattern cutter in ladies' outerwear. She has taught adults sewing and pattern cutting skills for over a decade: from absolute beginners sewing to bra making, simple pattern alterations to fitting masterclasses; inspiring and encouraging creativity and confidence in dressmaking and sewing projects.

Course Duration: Half a day 

When: Saturday 20th June 10am-1pm or Saturday 22nd August 10am - 1pm or Saturday 19th September 10am - 1pm

Venue: The workshop is held in our modern and vibrant studio at the Clothkits shop. We are located in central Chichester, about a 10 minute walk from the train and bus station. The closest car park is The Cattle Market.

Don't just take our word for it:  'Finally got to grips with my overlocker! Only taken 7 years!
Jo was an amazing tutor.. 6 of us on the course, 3 hours and coffee and biscuit later .. now confident to actually put my machine to good use!   Now looking at other courses and workshops. Everyone at Clothkits were super friendly and helpful.'