Ready to conquer trouser fitting once and for all? In this two-day hands-on course, you’ll learn how to adapt a commercial trouser pattern to fit your unique body shape comfortably, confidently and with precision.

Bring along your chosen trouser pattern (for woven fabrics only, no jeans) and we’ll guide you through accurate measuring, tissue fitting, toile construction and personalised adjustments. By the end of the weekend, you’ll leave with a completed toile and a corrected pattern, ready to make trousers that truly fit.

What you'll learn:

• How to take accurate body measurements
• How to choose the right pattern size
• Tissue fitting and how to assess fit
• How to identify your own fitting needs such as full tummy, flat or curvy bottom, long or short rise, sway back, and more
• How to alter your toile and transfer changes back to your paper pattern
• How two-dimensional pattern adjustments affect three-dimensional garments
• How to build confidence to make fit tweaks on future patterns too

Choosing a pattern: We recommend a well-fitting or close-fitting trouser pattern in a woven fabric, ideally high-waisted. Butterick B6845 is a great choice, with built-in Palmer/Pletsch fitting guidance. Avoid loose or low-rise styles, as they tend to hide common fit issues.

Is this class for you? Suitable for confident sewists who have sewn a number of garments using commercial patterns. This masterclass is ideal if you’ve made trousers before but weren’t satisfied with the fit. Bring along your previous makes if you have them.

Materials:  You will need your choice of trouser pattern plus calico (2m)  and pattern paper (Our Swedish Pattern Paper is preferred)  Both available on the day in the store.

About your Teacher:  Jo gained her experience in the fashion industry as a designer/pattern cutter in ladies' outerwear. She has taught adults sewing and pattern cutting skills for over a decade, from absolute beginners sewing to bra making, simple pattern alterations to fitting masterclasses. Jo is an inspiring teacher and encourages creativity and confidence in dressmaking and sewing projects.

Course Duration: 2 Full Days

When: Saturday 1st & Sunday 2nd August 2026

Venue: The workshop is held in our modern and vibrant studio at the Clothkits shop. We are located in central Chichester, about a 10 minute walk from the train and bus station. The closest car park is The Cattle Market.