Sew Better, Sew Faster: Shirtmaking

Class Preview

Sew a button-up shirt in just three hours, and do it all without sacrificing any of the quality! Note: Pattern not included. You’ll find a coupon in the materials to purchase it from Islander Sewing.

Express Order

Speed up your sewing with popular instructor Janet Pray! Janet explains how to sew in express order, so you can finish a shirt in just three hours. Start by using stripes as handy guides for lining up patterns. Then, learn to interface and mark pattern pieces to get them ready to assemble.

Sewing Without Pins

Maximize your efficiency by sewing without pins or basting! Janet shares fabric-handling tips for accurate, safe construction and gets you in tune with your feed dogs.

Professional Pressing

Want sharp points? Make it happen with Janet’s pressing tips! Then, move on to speedy topstitching preparation and find out how to get accurate curves at both ends of the collar stand. You’ll also eliminate hand stitching (and increase your efficiency!) by using the burrito technique to attach the collar and collar stand.

Setting Sleeves

Things are coming together! Janet guides you through finishing the sleeve placket and pleats, before sharing her method for setting a sleeve without pins or basting. When it’s time for pressing, you’ll see how the tailor’s ham can help you achieve professional results.

Tricky Topstitching

Topstitching in tight spaces can be tricky, but Janet’s there to help at every step! Learn how to tackle the topstitching at the sleeves as you finish them. Then, it’s back to the burrito method for clean work at the cuffs.

Buttonholes & Buttons

Sew buttonholes faster and fuss-free! Janet lays out a pattern-free marking method that’s much faster, and moves on to sewing buttons that button smoothly. (It’s all in how loose you sew them.) To close things out, you’ll dive into the different button placement on men’s and women’s shirts.