Such a lovely time spent with Martha and my fellow beginners. Lots of new skills learned in a stress-free environment. I was sorry when the 10 weeks came to an end. If you reading this review, wondering whether learning to sew is your thing, I would say just do it, you will surprise yourself.
Great course, lots of 1:1 time, lovely sociable atmosphere - highlight to my week! Martha is brilliant at what she does, is patient and encouraging and supports a relaxed but productive atmosphere. Mimi
Relaxed atmosphere and learned loads. I started out as an Overlocker novice and now have the confidence to have a go myself and practice the skills I’ve learned. Thanks Martha and please let me know when the next stage Overlocker course is running.
I recently attended the beginners overlocker course at the Sewing Shed and can thoroughly recommend it. The atmosphere was friendly and relaxed with Martha being a great teacher imparting her knowledge clearly. Time was managed really well and we got through a lot in the afternoon. I am looking forward to the follow on overlocker course. Marie
The Sewing for Improvers Course was enjoyable, really useful and very good value. I'm delighted with my bag, apron and cushion cover and know I've acquired new skills I'll use again: making bias binding, inserting an invisible zip and using fusible fleece. Martha gives clear instructions and is very patient and encouraging. The two hours went by incredibly quickly each time. I shall miss the Wednesday evening lessons in friendly company.
I met Martha after I was given a 20+ year old Singer overlocker. Sixty-something, male, and barely capable of bodging the task of sewing on a button, it was time to face down the demons of fabric and thread.The ten-week Sewing for Beginners course was great fun. Martha was comfortable working with a range of sewing machines, some provided by those attending the course and others others available in her well-equipped Sewing Shed. We made items that were attractive and useful. We achieved. We created a network of friends who still swap ideas and solve problems.It is telling that the Beginners class signed up en masse for the follow on course, and now that has ended, for yet more sewing. The tentative sounds of sewing machines operating at their slowest have been replaced by the confident sounds of machines operating swiftly, all against a background of cheerful chatter.
'Many thanks Martha for your help on the beginners course. It has given me the confidence to buy my own machine and embark on home projects.Your lessons were relaxed and friendly and I would happily recommend them to anyone. I soon realised it was not about what we made in the lessons but about the skills involved in making the items. I will most certainly come to one of your future classes.Thank you also for the practical advice you gave me concerning my hand tremor, by looking at ways I can work around this.'
I have just completed the 10 week introductory course and it has been fantastic. I started with no idea how to use my sewing machine and after 10 weeks I'm able to carry out simple projects using the techniques I've learned. Martha is a great teacher and the classes are fun and engaging. Highly recommended.
Absolutely loved this course. I'd never touched a sewing machine and I was really nervous about not being able to keep up with other people on the course but Martha was absolutely amazing at making sure we all had the right level of help so no one got left behind bit we could all work at our own pace. Would definitely recommend this course, it's the best thing I've done for myself in years.
A Beautiful space to learn and Martha is a knowledgeable and patient teacher. The lesson was fun! I hope to return. Sally W.If you LOVE to sew. You will love to visit the Sewing Shed in Stroud. I have just had a one to one session, to learn how to use an over locker with Martha, an experienced seamstress/needle women/crafter. It was a great two hours to get to know my machine, share sewing interests, obtain new ideas, network about local suppliers of materials/treads etc. and relax in a peaceful shed (more like a cabin) surrounded by nature. I highly recommend this experience. Best to find a session which suits your needs. I plan to return to the shed and join one of Martha's project classes. Susan A.
Martha is such a wonderful teacher. I had no idea how to use a sewing machine when I first started, and now am comfortable working on a variety of projects on my own. If you want to learn to sew, don't hestitate to join these classes!
Many thanks Martha for your help on the beginners course. It has given me the confidence to buy my own machine and embark on home projects.Your lessons were relaxed and friendly and I would happily recommend them to anyone. I soon realised it was not about what we made in the lessons but about the skills involved in making the items. I will most certainly come to one of your future classes.Thank you also for the practical advice you gave me concerning my hand tremor, by looking at ways I can work around this.
“I really enjoyed the Introduction to Sewing course – in six weeks we made a needle case, pencil case and a lovely bag, which I now find indispensable! The group was small, friendly and although of mixed ability, we all had something to learn and something to share, which everyone did gladly. Martha’s sense of humour and gentle patience immediately put me at ease and with her expertise I was able to learn so much more than expected. I now feel a lot more confident using my sewing machine and look forward to joining more of Martha’s fantastic courses in future.” I.H.
Martha is exactly the sort of teacher you need if you want to develop your confidence in sewing and find your creativity and adventure in the world of textiles. She is warm and encouraging. J.A.
Martha's skill, warmth and humour made this class a really enjoyable experience. As well as learning how to do the basics on my sewing machine (which had been shamefully languishing in a cupboard since its purchase), I made three lovely items, and feel inspired to continue sewing. F.D.
Thank you Martha for your wonderful sewing classes. Before I came I was frightened of sewing machines thanks to a terrible teacher at school and I was lacking in confidence in my own creative abilities. I longed to be more adventurous and knowledgeable with fabrics and sewing and your classes gave me a gentle and exciting way in. Your years of experience of dressmaking and textile art meant that you were able to help me with whichever projects I chose to embark on and I blossomed under your friendly encouragement. I love the way you are able to support your students with such a variety of projects. Your approach in empowering and reassuring. I have learned to love my (now three) sewing machines and have made clothes for my daughter, presents for friends and family, delightful art pieces for my home. More importantly, I feel that I can tackle anything now - the only limit is time and imagination! You offer such knowledge about the basics and techniques of working with fabric but so much more than that, you offer inspiration and the encouragement to explore. J.M.
I really enjoy my sewing classes with Martha in her cosy sewing cabin. With her expert tuition and gentle guidance I have made clothes for myself and my grandchildren. I have also made various dolls and a textile picture as a wedding present for my son. I am amazed and delighted that I have been able to do all these things. I also enjoy seeing what exciting projects others are doing and would thoroughly recommend her classes. A.H.
Just wanted to say how much I enjoyed Saturday's Freehand Machine Embroidery class. Very inspiring, supportive and relaxed. Lovely to spend time with others with an interest in sewing and share ideas and tips. Fabulous home made lunch. Would love to try another one day class in future and pick your brains some more.
I am expecting my new (old) Bernina 840 to arrive today and am really hoping it will be suitable for the job!
Many thanks, M.R.
Amazingly positive experience to face my fear of the sewing machine and create something beautiful and useful. Martha is so encouraging and has many suggestions to help the beginner. Cosy shed and great way to spend a Saturday morning. Debbie Hewitt. (Sewing workshop for beginners).
Hello Martha, Just wanted to say a big thank you for this morning. The time really flew by, and I can't believe that I came home with a finished cushion cover. I will be in touch soon to book another course.
Julie from Gloucester. ( Sewing workshop for Beginners).
Thanks for this dressmaking weekend it was good fun and I learnt a lot! I've bought a pattern already..
Hi Martha,I just wanted to say a "Big" Thank you for everything you have taught me. Having attended 3 sets of classes I now feel I have the confidence to continue my sewing and try new things. Your patience and skill are fantastic and I really appreciate everything you have taught me. I look forward to many happy sewing years ahead! Thank you again. Take care lot's of love Teresa xx
Hi Martha, Brilliant course I really enjoyed it. You have a lot of patience and a lovely way of explaining. Your catch phrase should be You are welcome. Best wishes Dinah, Nailsworth. (Dressmaking at the Herringbone in Nailsworth).
I have been attending Sew-in sessions at the Sewing Shed for over 2 years after completing a Introductory Course to Sewing at the New Brewery Arts Workshop run by Martha in 2016. Over the past two years I have learnt so much and acquired a new skill which I really enjoy, especially bag making. Martha is an excellent teacher, very knowledgeable and patient. I would completely recommend her courses, I could not have gained the sewing skills I now have without her tuition. Thanks Becky
