Sew a Keepsake

Turn a treasured textile item into a keepsake.

This course offers an opportunity for you to dig out a special, sentimental piece of clothing or bedding out of the cupboard and turn it into an item for your home. Whether you choose to create a cushion from a jumper, a soft toy from a baby grow or a bag from a shirt, you will be guided through the design and construction process to create a new item.

What to expect

Week 1 (Sept 16th)

This week gives you an opportunity to plan a project to suit you and test drive the sewing machines.

You will create a mood board to show the ideas you have and Liz and Gill will be there to help you plan your project and advise you on the design of your keepsake.

During this week's session, you’re able to do some sample sewing when test driving the sewing machines. Don’t worry, you won't have to use your treasured item for this: Scrap Space material will be provided.

Week 2 (Sept 23rd)

This week is all about creating or adapting a pattern to suit your design. You will be taught how to use patterns and cut your fabric in the correct way. This can get a little technical but Liz and Gill  will be there to check your pinning before you make the all important snip into your treasured fabric.

Week 3, 4, & 5 (Sept 30th, Oct 7th, Oct 14th)

You are ready to take to the sewing machine and bring your vision to life. You will have plenty of time to construct your item with support and guidance along the way. The time required for this stage will vary so if you finish in good time you may choose to have a play with some of your scraps and let your creativity flow. You can choose whether to come to one, two or three of these weeks, depending on your availability and complexity of your project. The booking includes one of these weeks and you can make a decision about the other two weeks once the course has started, with Liz's help. 

Week 6 (Oct 21st)

This is an opportunity to personalise your item with a date, name or special phrase. You will see examples of some personalisation techniques to finish off your final piece.

When you take your keepsake home, you’ll also get to take your pattern to use again and again.

All you need for this course is your special piece of fabric. You can select everything else you need in the Scrap Space.

Import things for you to Know about this Course

• Basic sewing machine skills are essential
• The Course is a minimum of 4 weeks
• Additional weeks can be booked at later date if your project requires more time
• Weeks 1  2 & 6  must be attended for you to complete your bespoke Keepsake item, so it can be treasured forever.

Who’s Running the Course?

I (Liz) am looking forward to running this course and guiding you through the creative process. In 2009 I completed my degree in Mixed Media Textiles, I am passionate about reusing textiles and wrote my dissertation about sentimental items and their importance. As a director of Over the Moon and involved in The Sircular Space, I see this as an opportunity to support you in the creation of what could become a family heirloom of the future.