Turn “I’ll wear it one day” into “I love this!”

We all have those pieces… the dress that’s nearly perfect, the trousers that are a little too long, the top that just doesn’t sit quite right. Instead of letting them hang unworn, why not transform them?

If you’re comfortable using a sewing machine and can sew a straight seam, this hands-on one-day workshop will give you the confidence and practical skills to alter, repair and upcycle your own clothes — saving money and giving your wardrobe a whole new lease of life.

Spend the day working on your own garments with expert guidance, learning techniques you’ll use again and again. By the end of the workshop, you won’t just have altered clothing — you’ll have the skills to tackle future projects at home with confidence.

What You’ll Learn

Depending on what you bring, you may cover:

• Shortening or lengthening hems

• Taking in or letting out seams for the perfect fit

• Adding darts to shape garments beautifully

• Simple redesign techniques to refresh tired pieces

• Professional tips to improve the finish of your work

Why Join?

• Save money by altering instead of replacing
• Reduce waste and shop more sustainably
• Build confidence with your sewing machine
• Enjoy a creative, supportive atmosphere 
• Walk away with clothes you’re excited to wear

A Creative Day at The Box

The workshop takes place at The Box in Plymouth — a bright, inspiring venue right in the heart of the city. With The Make Shop just opposite and the café on site, everything you need for a relaxed and creative day is right there.

What To Bring

• A sewing machine (let us know at booking if you’d like to use one of ours)

• A basic sewing kit (we have spares if needed)

• Two or more garments you’d love to alter

• Matching thread

Please avoid bringing very expensive or highly complex garments — this is about building confidence with achievable alterations. You’re welcome to bring items already pinned and ready to go.

Level

This workshop is not suitable for complete beginners. You’ll need to know how to thread your machine, wind a bobbin and sew using a seam allowance.

Tutor: Lisa Roberts
Duration: 5 hours (including a 30-minute lunch break)

Ready to stop saving clothes “for best” and start wearing them?
Join us and rediscover what’s already in your wardrobe