Linda Barker goes dressmaking
Linda Barker
“As a child, I always used to make my own clothes, but I found myself pushed for time. I also became a bit despondent because my pieces always looked homemade.
When I went to a friend’s drinks party last year and couldn’t find anything to wear, I was inspired to dig out some patterns. My daughter had done an introductory sewing course and I’d been impressed by the quality of work she’d come home with so I contacted the tutor to see if she ran advanced classes.
Monisola Omotoso is an experienced dressmaker. Her designs have been sold to Paul Smith and worn by Kate Winslet. I knew I’d be in safe hands, so I picked out a pattern for a stunning 40s-style Hardy Amies cocktail dress and decided to make it in bright-red silk.
I arrived at Moni’s house at 10am with my pattern and fabric, and didn’t leave until 5.30pm. For the first three hours we focused on our preparation – measuring the patterns to make sure they’d fit, cutting the fabric, then pinning the pieces carefully together. There were times when I thought I would never get near the sewing machine, but once we went on to start sewing, I was amazed at how quickly the separate pieces came together. It took just 45 minutes to get a basic model hanging on the mannequin and when I saw it I was over the moon.
By the end of the day I was on such a high. I left with my new dress, finished except for the sleeves. Moni was inspirational and I’ve already picked out my next pattern. She’s given me the confidence I needed to get started and because I know that I’m now capable of making a professional-looking piece, I’ll never have to struggle to find the perfect outfit again!”
reallylindabarker.co.uk
Moni’s tips…
- Visit John Lewis or Jaycotts (jaycotts.co.uk) for a wide selection of patterns.
- Sizes vary so before you start, make sure that your pattern and body measurements match.
- When sewing seams on delicate fabric, sandwich the cloth between tissue paper and then tear it away once done.
Monisola Omotoso offers group and one-to-one tuition in London. From £225pp for group tuition and £40 per hour for private. 07956-281385
Other courses to try…
- Creative Alterations, The Make Lounge, London. £49 for two three-hour evening sessions. themakelounge.com
- The Couture Finish and Finishing Touches, Leicestershire. £90 for a one-day workshop. schoolofsewing.co.uk
- John Lewis will be launching a beginner’s dressmaking course this summer. Around £35 for a full day. johnlewis.com
