Introduction To Alterations

About This Course

Alterations: Make Your Clothes Fit

A sleeve that’s too long, a gaping waistband or straps that won’t sit right can turn a perfectly good garment into something that never leaves the wardrobe. In this course you’ll learn practical, beginner-friendly alterations to fix these problems, so you can rescue the clothes you already own and get a better fit from the ones you buy or make.

What we’ll cover:

  • Hemming pants and jeans

  • Choosing a hem finish

  • Taking in side seams

  • Creating shape with darts

  • Shortening straps

  • Taking in waistbands

  • Shortening shirt sleeves

Course details

The course runs for three weeks, with a 2.5hr class each week. We’ll aim to cover all of the skills above, but we’ll adjust to the experience level of the group and the pace at which everyone works, so you get time to practise each technique properly.

Before you enrol

You should be comfortable using and threading a sewing machine and have a good grasp of seam allowances and basic sewing skills.

What to Bring

What to bring

  • Basic sewing tools: pins, marking pens or chalk, and fabric scissors

  • Sewing machine: no machine? Let me know and we can arrange one for you to use at the studio

  • Practice garments: a pair of old jeans and a business shirt you no longer need. If you don’t have these, let me know, as we usually have spare garments you can use

Class Details

3 classes starting Tuesday, November 24, 2026 at 12:00 AEST

📍 Sewing Gem Studio

View class schedule
1Tue, Nov 2412:00 - 14:30
2Tue, Dec 112:00 - 14:30
3Tue, Dec 812:00 - 14:30
$340.00

for the whole course

5 spots remaining

Your Details

We'll send your confirmation and class details here

Studio Policies

Cancellation Policy
  • 14+ days before course: Cancel more than 14 days before your course starts and receive a full refund.
  • 48 hours – 14 days before: Cancel between 48 hours and 14 days before your course starts and receive a 50% refund.
  • Less than 48 hours before: Unfortunately, we cannot offer refunds for cancellations made less than 48 hours before the course start date.
Terms & Conditions

Standard Terms

1. Acknowledgement of Risks

I understand that sewing involves the use of sewing machines, needles, scissors, irons, and other equipment that may cause injury. I voluntarily assume all risks associated with participation in classes at Sewing Gem Studio.

I release Sewing Gem Pty Ltd, its owners, instructors, and staff from any liability, claims, or demands arising from injury, loss, or damage that may occur while participating in classes or activities.

2. Medical Emergencies

In the event of an accident or medical emergency, I authorise Sewing Gem Studio to seek medical assistance as deemed necessary. I accept responsibility for any associated costs.

3. Photo and Video Release

Sewing Gem Studio may take photos and/or videos during classes for use in marketing materials, social media, and promotional content.

If you do not wish to be photographed, please inform your instructor at the beginning of each class. We will make every effort to accommodate your preference.

4. Payment Terms

All course fees must be paid in full at the time of booking before attending any lessons. Your place in a class is not secured until payment is received.

We accept payment via credit/debit card through our secure online checkout.

5. Cancellations and Refunds

Please see our Cancellation Policy for details on refunds and cancellations.

6. Code of Conduct

Students are expected to respect instructors, fellow participants, and studio equipment. We aim to create a welcoming, supportive environment for all learners.

Unsafe or disruptive behaviour may result in removal from the class without refund.

7. Age Requirements

Adult classes are designed for participants aged 16 and over. Our Teen Stitch programme is designed for ages 11-15.

For students under 18, a parent or guardian must complete the booking and provide consent on their behalf.

8. Materials and Equipment

Sewing machines and basic tools are provided for use during class. Students are responsible for bringing their own fabric and any additional supplies as specified in the course requirements.

Materials such as thread, interfacing, and notions are available for purchase at the studio.

9. Studio Access

Please note that studio access requires navigating stairs. If you have mobility concerns, please contact us before booking.

Student Cancellations

Transfer Your Spot

If you can't attend, you're welcome to send someone else in your place. Just let us know the name and contact details of the person attending at least 24 hours before the class.

The substitute attendee must meet any age or skill requirements for the course.

No-Shows

If you don't attend your class without prior notice, this is treated as a late cancellation and no refund will be provided. Our class sizes are small and limited, so we encourage you to let us know if you can't make it.

Studio Cancellations

In the rare event that Sewing Gem Studio needs to cancel a class due to instructor illness, extreme weather, or other unforeseen circumstances:

  • We will notify you as soon as possible

  • You'll be offered the choice of rescheduling to another date or receiving a full refund

  • If only some lessons in a multi-week course are affected, we'll reschedule those specific sessions or refund their proportional value

How to Request a Cancellation

To cancel your booking, please email us with your name and the course details:

studio@sewinggem.com

Refunds are processed within 5-10 business days to your original payment method.

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