Learn to sew
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From mending and alterations to making your own clothes — honest advice on where to start, what machine to buy, and how to actually improve.
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Where to start with sewing
Sewing for beginners
Which machine to buy, what fabric to use, first projects, and how to build skills quickly.
Start here
Hand sewing stitches
Step-by-step guide to every essential hand stitch — running stitch, backstitch, slip stitch, and more.
Read guide
Sewing workshops
In-person sewing classes with hands-on instruction — across the UK on ClassBento.
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Sewing workshops & courses
In-person machine sewing classes and online courses across the UK.
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Beginner Sewing Course
Beginner Sewing Course in Edinburgh. Rated 5/5 (367 reviews). Bookable on ClassBento — money-back guarantee.
DIY Plushie Sewing Class
DIY Plushie Sewing Class in London. From £38–£65. Rated 5/5 (115 reviews). Bookable on ClassBento — money-back guarantee.
Intensive Sewing Class
Intensive Sewing Class in London. Rated 5/5 (104 reviews). Bookable on ClassBento — money-back guarantee.
Beginners' Two-week Sewing Course: Evenings
Beginners' Two-week Sewing Course: Evenings in Edinburgh. Rated 5/5 (102 reviews). Bookable on ClassBento — money-back guarantee.
Introduction to Machining: Sewing Class
Introduction to Machining: Sewing Class in Manchester. Rated 5/5 (72 reviews). Bookable on ClassBento — money-back guarantee.
One-to-one Sewing Workshop
One-to-one Sewing Workshop in Leeds. Rated 5/5 (63 reviews). Bookable on ClassBento — money-back guarantee.
Basic Beginners Sewing Machine Workshop
Basic Beginners Sewing Machine Workshop in Edinburgh. Rated 5/5 (47 reviews). Bookable on ClassBento — money-back guarantee.
Beginners Sewing Workshop
Beginners Sewing Workshop across the UK. Rated 5/5 (27 reviews). Bookable on ClassBento — money-back guarantee.
Beginner Machine Sewing Workshop at Flourish
Beginner Machine Sewing Workshop at Flourish in Bristol. Rated 5/5 (25 reviews). Bookable on ClassBento — money-back guarantee.
Two-week Sewing, Upcycling and Repair Course
Two-week Sewing, Upcycling and Repair Course across the UK. Rated 5/5 (23 reviews). Bookable on ClassBento — money-back guarantee.
Basic Sewing Class
Basic Sewing Class across the UK. From £65–£70. Rated 5/5 (18 reviews). Bookable on ClassBento — money-back guarantee.
Sewing Class: Drop-in
Sewing Class: Drop-in in Edinburgh. Rated 5/5 (15 reviews). Bookable on ClassBento — money-back guarantee.
* Prices shown are the lowest available at time of writing. We earn a small commission if you book via our links — at no extra cost to you. Full disclosure →
Two paths
Hand sewing or machine sewing?
Hand sewing
No equipment needed beyond a needle and thread. Good for mending, embellishment, and hand-finished seams. Limited for garment construction.
Startup cost: £5–£10
Machine sewing
Opens up garment making, quilting, and home furnishings. A good beginner machine costs £150–£300 and lasts decades.
Startup cost: £150–£350 (machine + fabric + patterns)
Build skills in order
The beginner project progression
Tote bag
Straight lines only — master your machine tension and seam allowances.
Pillowcase or cushion cover
Introduces corners and pressing. A satisfying finished object.
Elasticated skirt or shorts
Your first wearable garment — minimal fitting required.
Unlined zip pouch
Introduces zips — the skill that unlocks the most future projects.
Simple top or blouse
Introduces curves, necklines, and fitting adjustments.
Good to know
Which sewing machine for a beginner?
Avoid. These machines have persistent tension issues and are frustrating to use — they'll put you off sewing before you've had a fair chance.
The sweet spot for beginners. Brother FS40 (£199), Singer Heavy Duty 4423 (£249), and Janome Sew Mini are all solid choices. Reliable tension, enough stitches, durable enough to last a decade.
Computerised machines with more stitch options. Not necessary at beginner level — the features rarely matter until you're experienced enough to know what you need.
Sewing
FAQs
Everything you need to know before you book.
Do I need a sewing machine to learn to sew?
What sewing machine should a beginner buy in the UK?
How long does it take to learn to sew?
Is sewing cheaper than buying clothes?
Where can I find beginner sewing patterns in the UK?
From the blog
All articles →
Sewing
Do I Need an Expensive Sewing Machine?
No — here's exactly what a beginner machine needs, what to ignore at the top end, and specific picks at every price point.
Sewing
Hand Sewing vs Machine — Which Should I Start With?
A fair comparison — cost, speed, learning curve, space, and what each one is actually for.
Sewing
Best Sewing Projects for Gifts
A tote bag, a cushion cover, a zipped makeup pouch, a set of cotton napkins, a simple apron and a reusable produce bag set are the six beginner-friendly se
Learn online
Learn to sew online from £7.99
Domestika has structured beginner sewing courses with clear video instruction. Lifetime access once purchased.