Fashion, textiles and crafts

Pattern manipulation 

Who the course is for

This course is for learners with prior experience in garment making who wish to learn how to adapt a commercial pattern for different body types and styles, how to mix and match pattern pieces, and to develop an understanding of how fabric type affects drape and silhouette.

Course location

Thomas Calton Centre, Alpha Street, SE15 4NX in fully equipped sewing rooms

What you’ll learn

• how to work with different body types/styles
• how to adapt a commercial pattern
• how to mix and match pattern pieces
• how to use different types of fabrics
• how to cut the garment pieces
• how to select more advanced patterns

How the course is taught

The course is tutor-led with demonstrations, samples and one-to-one support. There will be opportunities for learners to support and learn from each other through group discussions on work in progress and finished work.

Materials you’ll need

• folder, blank A4 paper or notebook pen, pencil, ruler and eraser
• fabric/paper scissors, threads, tape measure, needles and pins

Please note the £5 materials fee for these courses covers sundry items used in the first few weeks of your course. After week 1 you will also need to buy fabrics and other items but further information will be given at the time and as the course progresses.

After the course

• take further fashion, textiles or crafts courses at City Lit or Morley College
• you'll have increased confidence in pattern manipulation skills and improved time management/sewing planning skills.
• former learners have gone on to start businesses, or into paid and voluntary employment

How to enrol

Complete an enrolment form online

Find out how to enrol, locations and more about our services.

Course details

Contact information

Southwark Adult Learning Service 

• email adult.learning@southwark.gov.uk
• telephone 020 7358 2100 or 020 7358 2101

Page last updated: 31 July 2024