Build professional-level sewing skills with The Complete Sewing and Garment Making Short Course
- Written byUAL Short Courses
- Published date 06 October 2026
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Whether you're looking to improve your sewing skills, explore a new creative direction or develop the confidence to make your own garments, The Complete Sewing and Garment Making Short Course at London College of Fashion, UAL offers a practical introduction to professional garment construction and sewing techniques. Over 20 Saturdays students learn industry-standard methods while creating a range of garments and developing the skills needed to bring their ideas to life.
We spoke to students Hannah and Victor about their experience on the course and how it has helped them grow both creatively and technically.
Building skills and confidence
During the course students are introduced to a wide range of industry-standard sewing and garment-making techniques, working on projects that gradually build both technical ability and confidence. From constructing skirts and shirts to mastering garment components such as collars, pockets and waistbands, the course provides a comprehensive foundation in garment making.
For Hannah, the experience has transformed the way she approaches sewing.
"I've learned so many new skills and techniques, and it's given me so much confidence."
Victor found that the course helped him develop a mindset that extends beyond sewing itself.
"The most important skill I learned here was not being scared to tackle things that I don't know yet."
Mastering professional techniques
One of the course's strengths is its focus on practical, hands-on learning. Students gain experience using specialist equipment and professional construction methods that are commonly used throughout the fashion industry.
As Hannah's confidence grew, techniques that once felt intimidating became part of her regular practice.
"One of the skills that I'm very happy to have mastered is definitely using the overlocker."
She was particularly pleased to overcome one long-standing challenge.
"Adding zips used to terrify me. I've learned so many zip techniques here and now I use them every opportunity I can!"
Learning from industry experts
Throughout the course, students are supported by experienced tutors who provide guidance, feedback and practical insights drawn from their professional careers.
For Hannah, that support was a key part of the learning experience.
"The teaching here is absolutely fantastic. They have no hesitations in answering any questions or showing you something again if you forget."
Alongside technical instruction, students also benefit from tutors' industry knowledge and professional advice.
"They have so much industry knowledge and can give you so many hints, tips and tricks."
An immersive creative environment
Being based at London College of Fashion, East Bank gives students access to specialist facilities and the chance to learn within one of the world's leading creative universities.
Victor particularly valued the opportunity to experience life on a UAL campus.
"You get to be in a UAL campus without having to be in a BA or an MA."
For Hannah, the location itself provided an additional source of inspiration.
"We have the V&A (East)Museum right next door, so if you want some inspiration during your lunch break, it's like, OK, I'll pop in there."
Looking to the future
The skills developed on the course often become a springboard for personal projects, further study or creative businesses.
For Hannah, sewing is something she plans to continue long after the course ends.
"I'm definitely going to be carrying on sewing. I want to turn this into a sort of a side hustle."
For Victor, the greatest achievement has been gaining the ability to turn ideas into tangible outcomes.
"To have the wish to make something and be able to take that something out of the paper and make it a reality. That's amazing that I can do it now."
Ready to build your skills?
Whether you're looking to build professional garment-making skills, explore a new creative direction or gain the confidence to create your own designs, The Complete Sewing and Garment Making Short Course offers the practical skills, expert guidance and supportive learning environment to help you get started. It is a 20-week Saturday programme that starts each January, with payment plans available to help spread the cost.
Payment plans
This Complete Womenswear Pattern Cutting Short Course can be purchased using a payment plan on request and paid in full 4 weeks before course start date.
Example payment breakdown
Based on a course fee of £4,450:
50% Deposit (£2,225)
Followed by 3 payments:
Month 1 - £741.60
Month 2 - £741.60
Month 3 - £741.80 (this final payment is completed 4 weeks before your course begins)
Normal UAL Short Course T&Cs apply. Contact ualshortcourses@arts.ac.uk for more information.
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