Zero Waste Dress Workshop

Zero Waste Dress Workshop

During this workshop you will learn how to make the Zero Waste Dress by Birgitta Helmersson which comes in 2 sizes

This is an oversized dress with a dropped shoulder, gathered skirt, side pockets and full length button placket with buttons and button holes. Can be worn as a dress or an open jacket. The skirt seam is designed to sit over the bust. Lengths of bodice and skirt are easily adjustable to your preference. The width of the garment is variable depending on the fabric width you use. Comes with 2 simple hack options, one of which does not require buttons or button holes.

Zero waste pattern cutting is a bit like a puzzle. It is a method of pattern drafting where you utilise a length of fabric end to end by strategically planning your pattern pieces so that everything is used. This pattern is ‘PAPERLESS’ meaning that no printing of large pattern pieces is required. Instead of using full scale paper patterns, you draw your pattern pieces directly onto your fabric with the aid of a cutting plan and small templates.

All abilities welcome, don’t worry if this is your first time sewing.

Where: O L D E R O P E, 5, The Moor, Falmouth Cornwall TR11 3QA

When: Sunday 16th April

Price: £80 including pattern

Skill Level: No prior knowledge required

Class size: max. 6

What will I learn?

How to understand a zero waste pattern

Learn about fabric and how to correctly cut out.

Construction of your dress using a sewing machine.

You will learn how to sew dropped shoulder, gathered skirt, side pockets and full length button placket with buttons and button holes.

Simple and easy to follow instructions to improve and develop your skills with an experienced tutor.

Small groups allow for individual support and learning at your own pace. 

If you have to leave early or don’t quite finish,  you can come back to complete your garment in store free of charge.

Claire will be on hand to support you through your creation

What is included?

• We provide sewing machines, and all tools and equipment you will need to create your smock.
• Zero Waste Dress pattern instructions by Birgitta Helmersson for you to keep 
• A £5 lunch voucher for Dark Pony next door to us is included in the day.

What do I need to bring?

• Fabric, threads, and buttons. We prefer you to use preloved or waste fabric. You can visit the Retro Falmouth , or Ring Rose fabrics in Redruth for Zero waste options. Please wash and dry all fabric prior to the workshop to allow for pre-shrinkage.
• We have Gutermann recycled sew-all threads available to purchase in store should you require.
• The Zero Waste pattern is ideal for woven linen or cotton with a weight of approx 150-200gsm. Choose something with a bit of drape and something that is not too thick as the gathers can add a lot of fullness. Use the table below to determine how much fabric you require. (email us if you need help working out what you need)

Fabric Requirements

Determine your size

Size One

Recommended Widths: 125cm – 155cm / 49 – 61 inches

Yardage required: 260cm / 102 1/4 inches ( approx 2.85 yards)

Notions: Requires 9 buttons (depending on your chosen garment size) approx 12mm  /  1/2 inch in size. It is also optional to use a lightweight fusing for the neck band, this is only recommended for very fine fabrics.

Size Two

Recommended Widths: 110cm – 145cm / 43 – 57 inches

Yardage required: 394.5cm / 155 1/2 inches

Notions: Requires 9 buttons (depending on your chosen garment size) approx 12mm  /  1/2 inch in size. It is also optional to use a lightweight fusing for the neck band, this is only recommended for very fine fabrics.

Cancellation policy:

All workshops are payable in advance. Refunds will be given if you notify us of cancellation within 48 hours of the event

If you have any questions please send us an email

or visit us in store

Thanks for being part of the solution