Class

Alter and Sew a Custom Dress Shirt Class

$39.99

At a Glance:

In-depth Instruction; over 131 mins
On-demand video access anytime
Bonus downloadable PDF resources
Access to class Q&A

Item: R4001E

Description

Description

Button down shirts can be found in nearly every closet. Whether you like a fun print on casual fabric or something more formal with cufflinks and a crisp collar, you can make something unique to fit your style after taking this class.

Your instructor, Ashley Hough, will show you what supplies are needed; from your sewing machine to markings pens and everything in between. She will also explain how to measure for and select the right pattern size and how to transition sections between sizes if all your measurements don’t fit into one category on a commercial pattern. You will learn the correct way to positions the pattern pieces on your fabric and explain what all the markings on the pieces mean. There are many different variations for creating a unique look to your pockets, and Ashley will show you how to make them, along with how and where to attach them to your shirt, depending on the look you are going for.

Ashley will explain what a yoke is, where it goes, ways to embellish it and how to alter the pattern to leave it out if it’s not something you like. She will take you step-by-step through how to sew a placket onto a sleeve for a very professional look, and then show different cuff variations to add to the sleeve and how to achieve them.

You’ll also learn how to create a nice crisp collar and how to attach that to your shirt.
Finally you’ll learn how to bring it all together with the assembly of the shirt and learn how to finish your seams as you go so the inside looks just as good as the outside.

Class Sessions

Session 1: Overview

Session 1: Overview

8:07

This session is all about what you will need to construct your shirt. You will learn some of the variations that are possible when making your own button down and how those variations can make your shirt look more casual or formal. Ashley will walk you through all of the tools you’ll need to measure, cut and sew your shirt from start to finish.

Session 2: How to Measure and Select the Correct Shirt Size

Session 2: How to Measure and Select the Correct Shirt Size

8:12

Before you can make a shirt, you need to know what size to make it. Learn how and where to take the proper body measurements and what kind of measuring tape is right for the job. You’ll also learn what to do if all your measurements don’t fit into the same size category on a commercial pattern.

Session 3: Stitching Pocket and Shirt Front

Session 3: Stitching Pocket and Shirt Front

14:56

Pockets are front and center on most button-down shirts so they need to look good. Learn how to construct a pocket and stitch it to the shirt front. You’ll also learn several variations and how to make them, and learn which side of the shirt the pocket should go on.

Session 4: Add a Yoke and Stitch the Shirt Back

Session 4: Add a Yoke and Stitch the Shirt Back

21:06

Learn what a yoke is and where it goes. It’s time to find out some fun ways to customize and embellish the yoke as well as how to attach it to the shirt. You’ll also get the chance to alter a pattern or to leave it out if it’s not your style.

Session 5: How to add Plackets and Stitch Sleeves

Session 5: How to add Plackets and Stitch Sleeves

22:20

Plackets can take a shirt from casual to formal in a few simple steps, and Ashley has all the techniques you need to create a work of art. Learn how to make plackets and attach them to your shirt. You’ll also learn an alternative to plackets.

Session 6: Cuffs & Sleeves

Session 6: Cuffs & Sleeves

30:16

Whether you want to make a statement with cuff links or have a small cuff that can easily be rolled up, you’ll learn how to get the look you want in this session. Ashley will teach you how to attach the cuff to the sleeve with a finished seam on the inside, and then how to attach the sleeve to the shirt.

Session 7: Add a Collar and Stitch the Shirt Front

Session 7: Add a Collar and Stitch the Shirt Front

18:48

In this session, you will learn how to create a crisp collar using two pieces- a collar and an under collar. You’ll also learn how you can use just one of those pieces to create a more casual looking shirt. Then find out how to attach the collar to your shirt with a finished seam on the inside.

Session 8: Add the Finishing touches

Session 8: Add the Finishing touches

6:51

Buttons, buttonholes and a hem will round out the shirt making process. Learn which side your buttonholes should go on, how to mark for them and which direction to stitch them. You’ll also learn how to securely sew on a button and how to hem the lower edge of your shirt.

Your Instructor

Ashley Hough

Ashley has sewn for years. Her mother taught her at a very young age. When first starting out, she stuck to mastering commercial patterns before venturing into creating her own. Her patterns have been featured in <em>Sew News</em>, <em>Sew It All</em>, and she has even been on <em>Sew It All TV</em>. Quilting is somewhat new to Ashley, but she dove in head first – coming up with an original design for her first quilt that included curved seams and hand appliqué! She was even lucky enough to have it featured in one of Quilty’s "This is My Quilt" episodes. Ashley loves all things crafty, from sewing to knitting, crochet to quilting, and everything in between. When she isn’t working on a new project or learning a different technique she loves teaching her passion to others.

Bonus Material

Shopping Guide PDF

See the list of suggested tools and supplies to complete this project.

Cutting Guide PDF

Reference this Cutting Guide for details on customizing pockets & cuffs.

Meet Your Expert Video

Download this short video to hear some additional sewing tips from your instructor.

Bonus Materials available for download after purchase.

FAQs

How do I know what the Class covers?

Every Class has a free Preview video you can watch, to give you a flavor of the Instructor and the skills or project that will be covered. In addition, the Overview tab includes a thorough written description of the Class. And finally, each Class Session has a brief written summary of the content in that Session, including the length of each Session video. You will get a good feel for the Class content by reviewing these resources.

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Is there a limit on the times I can view my Class?

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How do I get access to the Bonus Materials for the Class?

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Once you purchase any Class, within the Class viewing page, you’ll have access to post a question, comment or tip in the Class Discussions. This is not a “live chat,” but National Sewing Circle contributors will answer posted questions and provide tips regularly. You can also view other Class participants’ questions and input to take part in this virtual dialogue among others who have taken the Class and are willing to share tips, answers, or ideas.

Can I print out Class details?

For any Bonus Material that is a PDF Download, yes you can. Just click on the icon/button for the Bonus element you want, and print with your local printer.

What are PDF downloads?

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Because you’ll have full access to all the materials and content that is presented in the Class immediately, we can’t offer a refund after purchase. Please review the Class Preview video and the various written descriptions of the Class and each Session before you purchase, so you have a good understanding of the Class content.

How do I contact National Sewing Circle?

If your question is about the Class content, please use the Contact Us Link – and you'll receive feedback from the Class Instructor. Even your fellow Class participants may jump in to offer tips and advice from their experience. If you have other questions or need help, you can email us at nationalsewingcircle@program-director.net or call us toll-free, at 1-855-208-7187. Service Representatives will be available Monday-Friday, from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM Central time, excluding normal holidays.

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