Learn a set of skills that can pave your way to a new career. Whether working in the in-demand world of commercial interior or upholstery sewing, or setting yourself up to start your own alterations enterprise, this program will set you in motion!
This comprehensive course is divided into three units of five classes. Completion of all three units earns your certificate, and will prepare you for a job as a machine operator (up to $25/hr), or set you on course to grow your own business doing alterations, making handbags, slipcovers, drapes, interior sewing or wherever your new skill takes you.
Classes will be held two evenings a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:00pm-8:30pm. See unit descriptions below.
Unit I – June 10th – June 24th – Tuesday & Thursday evenings from 6:00-8:30pm.
Unit II – July 8th – July 22nd – Tuesday & Thursday evenings from 6:00-8:30pm.
Unit III – July 31st – August 14th – Tuesday & Thursday evenings from 6:00-8:30pm.
Register for this course through your local Central Carolina Community College (Siler City, Sanford, or Pittsboro).
To get on the schedule, SIGN UP USING THE FORM AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS PAGE.
Unit I – Basic sewing skills for success.
Five sessions – 2 1/2 hours each.
This first set of classes teach you all the sewing basics that will set you on the path to being a pro. From using a sewing machine, to completing simple (but important!) projects.
You will learn the following foundational sewing skills:
- Sewing machine nomenclature
- Sewing machine use: threading, bobbin winding, stitching, sewing seams, removing/repairing seams
- Cutting, stitching, adjusting, and hemming projects from a pattern.
Projects for this Unit:
- Cut & sew a pair of lounge pants with pockets
- Cut & sew an envelope-style decorative pillow with piping.
- Install several different types of zippers.
MATERIALS NEEDED:
Four zippers provided for a $10 fee (lowest cost option for students)
Each student will need to purchase the pants pattern for $10
2-3 yards of woven cotton or flannel (no knits) not provided. Choose a fabric you like and bring it in!
Unit II – Interiors, Commercial Sewing, and Alterations
Five sessions – 2 1/2 hours each.
The second set of classes will teach you some highly marketable skills that are in high demand. With this introduction to these highly marketable skills, students will be on a path to be able to service customers who need clothing altered, or customers who are looking for an interior makeover in their home.
You will learn the following skills:
- Measuring a window space for drapes/window treatments
- Cut & sew drapes/window treatments that are ready to install
- Measuring, cutting & sewing small slip-cover jobs such as an ottoman
- Commonly needed alterations such as hemming pants, adjusting sleeves, taking in pants, dresses, and skirts, and more.
- How to operate a commercial upholstery sewing machine.
Projects for this unit:
- Hands-on window treatment introduction
- Alterations workshop covering an array of common garment adjustments
- Make an upholstery-weight ottoman cover
ALL MATERIALS PROVIDED BY CHECKERED TULIP
Unit III – Knits, Design & Apparel Construction – Earn Final Certification
Five sessions – 2 1/2 hours each.
In this third set of classes, you will apply the skills learned in Units I and II, and round out a set of skills that open up an array of opportunities that are highly marketable.
You will learn the following skills:
- Reading patterns, sizing, cutting, and constructing apparel
- Sewing with knit fabrics
- Install linings
- Threading & operating a serger
- Sewing & installing knit cuffs and waistbands
Project for this unit:
- Cut & sew a tailored knit and medium weight bomber jacket.
Materials not provided: Please contact the instructor at 919-337-8804 for guidance on how much fabric you’ll need.
Bomber Jacket Pattern Fee: $20
CCCC Continuing Education Signup
CCCC Continuing Education Signup - Make your class schedule here.