For anyone who’s never sewn before or wants a refresher, this level covers all the basics to get you comfortable with a sewing machine.
Perfect for those who have never used a sewing machine before, or for anyone looking to refresh their basic skills. We’ll guide you through the fundamentals, ensuring you feel comfortable and confident at the machine. Our beginner-friendly classes include the Intro to Machine Sewing 6 week course, Beginners All Day, Make a Tote Bag or Cushion and our new Hand Stitch and Repair Workshop.
A great next step for those who’ve mastered the basics to develop your technique through simple, satisfying makes.
You know how to thread up a sewing machine and sew in a straight line. You might have done some basic sewing at home—hemming trousers, making simple cushions, or the odd fancy dress costume—but you’re ready to learn more and build on those skills. This level is a great next step after a Level 1 class.
Confident with a sewing machine and ready to start making clothes
You’re comfortable threading up your machine and have completed a few simple projects like tote bags, cushions or pyjamas. Now you’re looking to move beyond the basics and begin sewing garments.
At this stage, you’ll begin following patterns, learning construction techniques, and exploring skills like inserting zips, adding linings, and making piped edges. Classes at this level include Introduction to Garment Making, One Day Workshops and Patchwork For Beginners.
Best suited to those who have completed a Level 2 class or have equivalent experience.
For experienced sewists looking to sharpen their technique, work with new fabrics, and elevate their garment making.
You’re confident with a sewing machine and have experience making a variety of garments. You can follow commercial sewing patterns and want to refine your skills—whether it’s improving fit, tackling trickier techniques, or working with new fabrics.
This level includes pattern adjustments, overlocker skills, bag making, and more complex garment construction. Classes at this level include Adapt a Pattern for a Better Fit, Advanced Garment Making – Shirt or Fly Front Trousers, and Overlocker Basics, all designed to help you refine your sewing skills and take on more complex projects.
Best suited to those who have completed a Level 3 class or have equivalent experience.
Ideal for experienced makers looking to refine their skills and explore advanced sewing techniques.
For confident sewists looking to push their skills further. This level is aimed at those who have sewn a variety of garments and are ready to take on more technical challenges, such as pattern cutting, trouser fitting, and custom garment construction.
Classes at this level focus on creating and adapting patterns, achieving perfect fit, and advanced sewing techniques. If you’ve used commercial patterns before and are comfortable modifying designs, this level is for you.
Best suited to those who have completed a Level 4 class or have extensive sewing experience.
Age Policy for Classes
At Ray Stitch, we'd love to welcome stitchers of all ages, but to ensure the best learning experience for everyone, we're unable to accommodate anyone under 12 in our workshops.
Young people aged 12-16 are very welcome in our classes but must be accompanied by a responsible adult (18+) throughout the entire session. The accompanying adult must book and pay for their own space in the class and participate alongside the young person. Students aged 17 and over can attend classes independently.
If you're planning to book for a young person, we recommend emailing us at school@raystitch.co.uk first so we can help guide you to the most suitable class for their age and experience level.