At the start of this school year, you might be wondering about beginning sewing courses and hesitating over the format. It is true that in this age of instant information, it is easy to find learning materials: books, podcasts, videos… which could almost make sewing courses seem outdated.
So, I took the time to sum up my experience of 5 years of diligent learning to give you my opinion on the matter, which is based solely on my own experience.

Indeed, I have been fortunate to try different options:

• taking courses with experienced teachers
• learning on my own through books dedicated to sewing, pattern making, fashion design, fabrics...
• learning through videos and YouTube channels
• reading blogs by professionals and hobbyists in creative crafts
• and finally drawing inspiration from social media like Pinterest, Facebook, and Instagram...

To explain my little story… When I started sewing, I began by buying a sewing machine. A mechanical Toyota… First big mistake.
I started alone by following the machine’s instruction manual: threading, bobbin filling, basic stitches… Quite proud of myself, after handling the machine several times, I was able to make my first item: a bento bag! I must say I was pleased with it, even though in hindsight I can’t help but see all its flaws.

I consulted websites, many YouTube videos without considering the quality of the YouTubers… Second big mistake.
The result was many disappointments: videos missing assembly steps… patterns that didn’t fit right… bad advice… unconventional methods...
And then it became clear that I did not properly master the sewing machine. It didn’t always work as I wanted, I didn’t understand why the thread tangled, broke, and I got frustrated…
In short, I was starting to get discouraged alone in front of my machine… Third big mistake.

After careful thought, I decided to take an introductory course on the sewing machine in 2 lessons of 2.5 hours each to learn to sew a tote bag and a cushion cover with Vanessa from the Wonderland haberdashery.
And oh surprise… handling the machine was immediately easier and the advice much more sound. I also invite you to read my article on the 10 pitfalls to avoid when starting sewing, which sums up what I no longer did after these 2 lessons.
Delighted with this first experience, I continued the courses with my new teacher and benefited from her valuable advice to sew a toiletry bag, a blouse, a simple dress, a pleated skirt… increasingly challenging projects.
Moreover, being in a group, sharing difficulties and advice, listening to the teacher’s tips given to others for their projects, helps you progress quickly and motivates you to excel. And then, the satisfaction of wearing what you have made in front of the amazed eyes of your “classmates” is truly thrilling, as is the desire to move forward ever faster.

These courses also helped me develop a critical eye for the videos I watched and to build a catalogue of “good sites” as well as good books, magazines, shops, and good deals…
As a result, I was able to start learning on my own. Over the last 3 years, I alternated periods of courses with 10-session cards of 1.5 hours and times without courses where I learn alone. I most often return to course sessions (always with the same teacher, you don’t change a winning team) when I start a more complicated project. Recently, I did so for assembling a coat, a bodysuit, and making a swimsuit, which are technical pieces.

Two years ago, I invested in a new electronic sewing machine, this time. A machine I took time to choose so that it truly met my needs. I therefore advise you not to buy a sewing machine on a whim as I did when starting sewing.

I must admit I also tried another sewing course whose subscription was cheaper. The promises were “come learn pattern making with teachers from fashion design schools.” I was very disappointed to end up making only one bodice pattern that we never used again, a Burda shirt pattern, and trousers whose pattern came from Deer and Doe… so very disappointing when the goal is to learn pattern making. And what bothers me most is that when you look for a sewing course in Brussels, this is the first place you will come across.
I therefore advise you to be cautious when the course offer seems too cheap… it is probably too good to be true. Sewing course rates are often around 12 euros/hour for a quality teacher. The more qualified or recognised they are, the higher the rate. Another point to watch is the number of participants. If you pay
6 euros/hour and there are 20 participants for one teacher; move on. Ideally, 6 people make a good group so that each receives the teacher’s attention.
Private lessons are also an option, rates often start at 20 euros/hour and you can find a good range of courses between 20 and 30 euros/hour.

In summary, I would say that if you are an adventurer and not afraid to fail a project, to take it apart, to start again, to waste fabric… you can fully set out as a self-learner. You will need to learn to be critical and persevering.
If you get discouraged quickly when you fail at something, if you are a perfectionist, courses will undoubtedly be a better option for you.
And if you are a bit of both, like me, I think alternating courses and periods of solo creation can be an excellent solution.

Do not hesitate to share your comments or your own experience with me.