Foundations of Sewing Course Syllabus

Instructor: Toni Smith

Course Format: Online (Self-Paced with Live Sessions) 

Course Duration: 6 Weeks 

Location: Google Drive (Reference PDFs & Worksheets), Live Sessions (TBD)

 

Course Overview 

This Foundations of Sewing course is designed for beginners and those looking to refresh their basic sewing skills. Through a structured curriculum, participants will learn essential sewing techniques, fabric selection, machine handling, and project completion strategies. By the end of the course, students will be confident in their ability to sew simple projects and troubleshoot common issues. 

Course Objectives 

• Understand sewing machine basics, including threading and maintenance 

• Learn different types of stitches and when to use them 

• Master fabric selection and cutting techniques 

• Develop proficiency in constructing basic sewing projects 

• Gain confidence in troubleshooting sewing machine issues 

• Explore creative sewing applications and customization techniques

 

Course Materials 

• Sewing Machine (Recommended: Beginner-Friendly Model) 

• Fabric Scissors, Seam Ripper, Pins/Clips

• Measuring Tape and Ruler 

• Fabric (Cotton, Muslin for practice) 

• Thread (All-Purpose Polyester or Cotton) 

• Printable PDFs & Worksheets (Provided via Google Drive) 

• Optional: Pattern Weights, Rotary Cutter, Cutting Mat 

Weekly Breakdown

 Week 1: Introduction to Sewing & Machine Basics 

• Course overview and expectations 

• Sewing machine parts and functions 

• How to thread a machine and wind a bobbin 

• Basic machine stitches (straight, zigzag, backstitch) 

• Practice Exercise: Sewing straight lines on scrap fabric 

Week 2: Fabric Fundamentals & Cutting Techniques 

• Understanding different fabric types 

• Grainlines, selvedges, and stretch direction 

• Proper cutting techniques and tools 

• Pattern reading basics 

• Practice Exercise: Cutting and preparing fabric for a simple project 

Week 3: Seam Construction & Pressing 

• Seam allowances and different seam types 

• Finishing techniques (zigzag, pinking shears, French seams) 

• Importance of pressing and tools needed 

• Practice Exercise: Sewing basic seams and pressing them properly 

Week 4: Sewing a Simple Project (Tote Bag or Pillowcase) 

• Project overview and preparation 

• Pinning and assembling fabric pieces 

• Sewing and finishing edges 

• Live Q&A and troubleshooting session 

Week 5: Buttonholes, Zippers & Fastenings 

• Introduction to closures: buttons, zippers, and hook-and-eye 

• How to sew a basic buttonhole (manual & automatic) 

• Installing a zipper (basic centered method) 

• Practice Exercise: Sewing a sample buttonhole and zipper

 

Week 6: Final Project & Creative Exploration 

• Choosing a final project based on learned skills 

• Adding creative elements: trims, appliqué, embroidery 

• Troubleshooting and final sewing tips 

• Live Showcase: Sharing completed projects & feedback 

Live Sessions & Community Engagement 

• Weekly Check-Ins: Optional live Q&A for troubleshooting & extra guidance 

• Project Walkthroughs: Live demonstrations for more complex skills 

• Community Forum: Share progress, ask questions, and connect with other students 

Completion & Certification Students who complete all exercises and submit a final project will receive a Certificate of Completion. 

Ready to Sew? Let’s Get Started!