Draping is the art of manipulating fabric directly on the dress form in three dimensions. It is the most creative way for a designer to turn design ideas into reality.  Apparel design students, professional dressmakers, and amateur hobbyists alike benefit from learning the art of draping. Whether you aspire to make your own clothes or do high fashion design, knowing how to drape will help you produce good results. 

This is a talk that will cover cloth types and how/ when best to use it for different projects.  There will be 3D samples to help visualise my descriptions.  I will cover shear silk up to wool and canvas.  I will answer questions at the end.

This is a talk that will cover cloth types and how/ when best to use it for different projects.

The Art of Cloth Draping for Clothing 



Are you a budding fashion designer or someone who loves loves create their own clothes? Look no further, because you can now rent a sewing machine, overlocker and use of a creative space from us and embark on your sewing journey with confidence! Whether you are an intermediate or an experienced sewer, our sewing machines are perfect for all your creative projects. 

Our sewing machines and overlocker are top-of-the-line models, designed to make your sewing experience easy and enjoyable. They come with a variety of features, including different stitch patterns, adjustable speeds, one step button holes and automatic threading, making them ideal for both simple tasks and more complex projects.  All sewing tools, cutting equipment and thread are provided too.

Renting a sewing machine from us is not only cost-effective but also convenient. You don't have to worry about the hassle of purchasing and maintaining a sewing machine, as we take care of all that for you. You will have the chance to sew at your leisure, pace and within a creative space. Any further help may need a private sewing class booked. 

So, whether you want to sew a beautiful dress, alter a pair of jeans, or create unique home decor items, rent a sewing machine from us today and let your creativity soar!

You can now rent a sewing machine from us by the hour to use at your leisure. 

Rent a Sewing Machine 

Arebyte Studios

Hello and welcome. My name is Claire and I own Couchman Bespoke an ethical tailoring company based in London, UK.  I have been teaching sewingskills for 6 years now.

This hour lesson will cover the sewing machine threading, sewing straight lines,what to look for when sewing, taking it to a curved edge and even a few different seam styles.  Choose from 1 to 1 or a group class.  Whether you are learning to sew for the first time or want to top up on the knowledge you already have.  Bring a readiness to learn and maybe a notebook for all that you learn, I may take some photos for use on my social media if you allow and can forward them onto you after.

Do you have a sewing machine that you have barely touched or are super new to sewing, and would love to have someone show you the ropes.  Bring your machibe alone to the class or opt for a virtual class.  We will explore the sewing machine through the differing components, dials and how to thread it up.  If you have questions about the different feet supplied with your machine they can be answered.

You will enjoy a pleasant environment with a patient tutor near Canning Town station.  All equipment is provided for your learning experience.  You will be learning techniques that align with your abilities, and take home all that you complete for reference. If you wish to learn a specific technique please ask before the class date so I can be prepared for you.

As a business for good we collect donations for our Pay It Forward scheme to allow for people unable to afford classes. Pay It Forward (https://www.couchman-bespoke.com/product-page/buy-1-sewing-lesson-forward).

Learn to Sew

Tisha

The venue was easy to find and a nice little space - it showed me any space is possible to sew an outfit. 

From the moment I walked in, Claire was friendly and welcoming and she has given me tremendous confidence to design and pull together some exciting outfits.  

At no time did Claire make me feel stupid nor any question I asked was too dumb. She was patient and helpful. I will certainly be back! 

We chatted all the way through and I learnt how to use some very important tools - still have to work on drawing curves but practice makes perfect so I’ll get there….soon!

Thanks Claire. You’re great!

Margot Farnham

A very good session.  A low-stress experience with a clear and patient tutor.

Mary Sloane

I attended a one-to-one sewing lesson with Claire yesterday. I am a complete beginner on sewing machines & wanted to learn how to use a machine before buying one. 
Claire taught me how to set up the machine and how to use its different functions, which I then had the opportunity to try myself.  I learned more that I thought possible in 1 hour, without any sense of rushing.  I liked the one-to-one session as I could ask lots of questions & everything was based on my level of experience. 
Claire also gave me excellent advice on buying a sewing machine taking my expectations & budget into account. 
I left the lesson feeling motivated to try out my new skills & get practicing. 
I plan to return to Claire for a further lesson  when I get to a higher level of knowledge. 
I would definitely recommend a Moxie Craft  lesson with Claire. 

Emily Clark

Claire is a great sewing teacher. Her small workshop in a creative shared space in Canning Town is very cute and very easy to reach with public transport. She taught me the basics of how to use a sewing machine and we did an alteration together. She is a good communicator. Understands what you want to learn and teaches it very effectively. She is also an exceptional tailor. She has amazing skills and very knowledgeable. I am so impressed with her skills. Highly recommended. 

Kasia Nguyen

Claire was such an incredible, patient, lovely teacher. I taught me everything I wanted to learn and answered all questions I had. She even stayed a bit longer than the set time to finish teaching me something I wanted to learn. I am a beginner so I was quite nervous because I didn’t know anything about sewing but Claire was so very kind to show and teach me step by step. I would definitely recommend the workshop for anyone!

Maria Poole

Cali Jones

A wonderful class, learning is one-on-one so you can ask specific questions. We went over how to thread and use a machine, different uses for different types of stitches, a couple of alteration types, and some good tips for buying my own machine. Claire is lovely to learn from and I plan to continue taking more advanced classes as I get more involved with sewing. 

Deirdre Oshea

Fabulous as always! Claire is a really great teacher. I really enjoy attending her classes and have learned a lot.

Samantha Corcoran

Such a fun and informative session with Claire learning about how to set up a sewing machine, the different settings and some practice as a complete beginner - can't wait for the next one!

Telmo Borges

Really enjoyed my visit and already planning my return to learn and get more knowledge.
The space is great and the tutor “Claire” was helpful with all my questions and gave me some tips for my own projects.

Aba Crankson

I haven't touched a sewing machine for many, many years so this was exactly what I needed to feel confident about sewing again. I loved having a refresher on the machine and just getting to practice different types of stitches.

Yvette Riby-Williams

Clare is an amazing teacher, i always have a wonderful time and the trousers i made are exquisite.

Learn to sew with a sewing machine.  Choose from 1 to 1 or group class.  From threading your machine to sewing a seam.

Hello and welcome.  My name is Claire and I own Couchman Bespoke an ethical tailoring company based in London, UK. 

Learn to pattern make a basic block to fit your measurements.   This 2 hour session  will focus on making a paper block to confirm the size.  Depending on time left we may be able to add a sleeve block or trousers, you will need an extra hour at least.  

This class is for all genders and ages.  A fit block is made to your base body shape for the type of garment you wish to make from it.  Choose from 1 to 1 or group class. 

The fit block paper pattern can be manipulated into a shirt, dress or even a jacket for the more advance learner.  If you would like further tuition on this let me know and we can arrange the details.  Be aware that the more advance the garment the longer it will take to complete with tuition.  Bundle classes are available for 3 hours plus, under Make A Garment Bundle. 

Bring a readiness to learn and maybe a notebook.  You will enjoy a pleasant environment with a patient tutor near Canning Town station.  All equipment is provided for your learning experience.  You will be learning techniques that align with your abilities and take home all that you complete for reference.  If you wish to learn a specific technique, please ask before the class date so I can be prepared for you.  

As a business for good we collect donations for our Pay It Forward scheme to allow for people unable to afford classes.  Pay It Forward (https://www.couchman-bespoke.com/product-page/buy-1-sewing-lesson-forward).

Learn to Pattern Make

Claire Raison

Claire was very friendly and knowledgeable, and a great teacher. I enjoyed our one-to-one pattern drafting session - I made a basic block and have a better understanding of the processes involves in pattern drafting.

Amina Uddin

Claire was very knowledgeable and answered any queries I had. She was very responsive to messages prior to the class and was helpful. I think these sessions will be more suited to someone who has some knowledge of pattern making, as I had to ask several questions to understand what we were doing a d to visualise it. The session has definitely piqued my interest to learn further.

Sarah Ameson

A great session, I came away feeling very confident to use my newfound knowledge!

Donna Goodfellow

Thank you to Claire for unravelling some of the mystery. I am looking forward to getting started with my new pattern block.

Patricia Campbell

Learn to pattern make a basic block to fit your measurements.  Choose from 1 to 1 or group class.

Hello and welcome.  My name is Claire and I own Couchman Bespoke an ethical tailoring company based in London, UK  

Learn to copy your favourite garment to get continued enjoyment out of a garment that fits like a dream.   In this class you will learn how to copy a garment on paper.  If we have time, you may get part way into cutting in cloth.  Cloth is unavailable through me, so please do bring your own.  Ability to complete this depends on the quickness in completing each stage and how detailed the garment is.  If you wish to sew up the garment i do recommend 3+ hours. 
You can purchase such bundle hours through the Learn to make a garment bundle class, which are available for 3 hours plus.  

This class is for all genders and ages.   Choose from 1 to 1 or group class.  

Bring a readiness to learn and maybe a notebook.  You will enjoy a pleasant environment with a patient tutor near Canning Town station.  All equipment is provided for your learning experience.  You will be learning techniques that align with your abilities and take home all that you complete for reference.  

- Be aware that this session time is based on a fairly simple style.  For any garment with layers, corset style or a jacket, coat etc, double the time will be required to complete.  Book the 3 hour session.  
- You will copy the garment on paper.  For the opportunity to make it in cloth book the 6 hour session.  Again if the garment is more complicated with layers, corset style or a jacket, coat etc; please book for 12+ hours.  

As a business for good we collect donations for our Pay It Forward scheme to allow for people unable to afford classes.  Pay It Forward (https://www.couchman-bespoke.com/product-page/buy-1-sewing-lesson-forward).

Copy your Favourite Garment

Janet Adams

Informative , relaxed and friendly . Would thoroughly recommend this one to one class . 

Shiri Begum

Claire breaks down the lesson so well - I had opted to take a simple dress to copy during the class and Claire taught me carefully how to draw out the pattern, cut the different sections and we were even able to put together some of the sections. 

I have only recently started my sewing journey and I'm really happy to have found Claire and I'm really looking forward to booking another session very soon.

Seojin Lee

Highly recommend for those who want to make their own clothes. 


Ellie Eriksson

I booked the Copy Your Favourite Garment class and Claire was brilliant. She's nice and friendly and helped me understand the mysteries of pattern making. I was a complete sewing novice, but with her help I've already managed to make a shirt! Highly highly recommend!

Evangeline Gowie

Very informative, packed a lot into a short time and I feel confident I can repeat this at home.

Learn to copy your favourite garment for continued enjoyment.  Choose from 1 to 1 or group class.

Learn to Make a Garment Bundle.  From learning to sew through to pattern making, to sewing up a garment.  Whether you are a beginner to sewing, wanting to understand the make up of garments or are coming back to sewing from a long break.  The bundle class will allow you to learn at a steady pace for any garment.  

I have set bundles of 3 hrs classes, 4 hrs, 5 hrs 6 hrs,  8 hrs or 10 hrs classes depending on the scale of project or what you need the most help with.  These classes are 1 to 1 only to allow for a fully bespoke style of class.  

*  A single class of 1 hour is not very long to get much completed.  The point of this listing is for the bundles.

*  The more complicated the garment the more time it will take to make.  Layers and paneling both add time to the construction process.

E.G.  A dress can take 6 plus hours.  A shirt can take 10 plus hours.  A jacket can take 20 plus hours.  Though you can choose to only do the bits you need help with the most and carry on with elements at home.

Bring a readiness to learn and maybe a notebook.  You will enjoy a pleasant environment with a patient tutor near Canning Town station.  All equipment is provided for your learning experience.  You will be learning techniques that align with your abilities and take home all that you complete for reference.  If you wish to learn a specific technique, please ask before the class date so I can be prepared for you.  

As a business for good we collect donations for our Pay It Forward scheme to allow for people unable to afford classes.  Pay It Forward (https://www.couchman-bespoke.com/product-page/buy-1-sewing-lesson-forward).

Learn to Make a Garment Bundle

1 to 1 class only.  Learn to Make a Garment Bundle.  

Hello and welcome.  My name is Claire and I own Couchman Bespoke an ethical tailoring company based in London, UK  

Learn to make a tote bag or travel pouch.  Cloth for use is made up of our studio off-cuts, though you are welcome to bring your own half meter of cloth.  Ability to complete this depends on the quickness and accuracy in completing each stage.

This class is for all genders and ages.   Choose from 1 to 1 or 2 person group class.  

Bring a readiness to learn and maybe a notebook.  You will enjoy a pleasant environment with a patient tutor near Canning Town station.  All equipment is provided for your learning experience.  You will be learning techniques that align with your abilities and take home all that you complete for reference.  

As a business for good we collect donations for our Pay It Forward scheme to allow for people unable to afford classes.  Pay It Forward (https://www.couchman-bespoke.com/product-page/buy-1-sewing-lesson-forward).

Make a tote bag, with cloth from our studio off-cuts.

Beginner sewing project. Make a tote bag

Hello and welcome.  My name is Claire and I own Couchman Bespoke an ethical tailoring company based in London, UK.  

You have an item of clothing that fits badly, is not the style you want or has a non-repairable rip.  We all have such items that were nice loved or that were brought but never worn, this is my sustainable answer to such an issue.  I will show you how to alter this with a step-by-step guide of what to do and when.

The class is 2 hours long though this can be added to, time wise, for longer projects.  The class time will be taken up assessing the garment fit and talking you through how to measure or pin the changes for fit.  Or how to start making changes to the style of a garment, I will talk you through these changes step-by-step.  It is up to you how much information you want from me, time is our only constraint, and this can be added to.  Unpicking and sewing take up most of the time.  Also be aware that you will not get much more than 1 or 2 alterations completed.

Art of Alteration

Lydia Obaye

Great session, we went over taking in jeans on one side together and I was able to complete the other side on my own that evening (albeit much slower). Would definitely book again if I need more help 😊

Toyin Oseni

I am an absolute beginner and in my first class already learned quite a lot. Looking forward to picking up more skills and tips of the trade.

Learn how to alter a garment, step by step.

Hello and welcome.  
My name is Claire and I own Couchman Bespoke an ethical tailoring company based in London, UK.  

A fit block is the base upon which all garments can be drafted from. The fit block will be drafted using your measurement and will take upto 2.5 hours to complete.  This time will include drafting the fit block on paper and making a cloth toile of the fit block to enable you to make any adjustments.  I will show you how to make these adjustments, it is good if you have someone to help you with the initial measurements and for the cloth part only (15 mins max) but this is not essential, I can help you virtually.  From these adjustments on the toile I will show you how to transfer them onto the paper, and then how to manipulate this fit block into other styles.  

Let me know if you require paper and / or cloth to be sent out.  This is at additional cost, see instructions for more details.  For the toile you need to sew up a couple of seams, for everything to be finished within the timescale please have this set up ready.  If you do not have a sewing machine then you can sew by hand, extra time can be given for this.  

As a business for good we collect donations for our Pay It Forward scheme to allow for people unable to afford for classes.  Pay It Forward [here](https://www.couchman-bespoke.com/product-page/buy-1-sewing-lesson-forward).

Learn to Make a Bespoke Fit Block

Yvonne Jeffery

Claire is a brilliant teacher, this was my second lesson with her and she exceeded my expectations again! She patiently took me through step-by-step (online learning is not a barrier!), and answered all my questions. Now I have my own fit block and the confidence to make my own patterns fit me. Looking forward to seeing what she offers next!

Learn to make a fit block for your measurements

Learn to Make a Bespoke Fit Block - online

Hello and welcome.  
My name is Claire and I own Couchman Bespoke an ethical tailoring company based in London, UK.  

Learn to sew beyond a straight line, we will cover curves and seams too.  We will go through your machine from all angles if needed too.  Do you have a sewing machine that you have barely touched and would love to have someone show you the ropes?  Well I can now offer this virtually.   We will explore the sewing machine through the differing components, dials and how to thread it up.  If you have questions about the different feet supplied with your machine they can be answered.  This hour and half lesson will cover the sewing machine, sewing straight lines (what to look for when sewing), taking it to a curved edge and even a few different seam styles.

As a business for good we collect donations for our Pay It Forward scheme to allow for people unable to afford classes.  Pay It Forward [here](https://www.couchman-bespoke.com/product-page/buy-1-sewing-lesson-forward).

Learn to Sew with a Machine

Amanda Bavin

Fantastic teacher! I’m a real novice with a sewing machine and have come away having mastered: straight line, curved line, french seam, how to change foot and do a button hole, tips on threading and bobbin, and tips on zips. Very good can’t recommend enough! Now I want to visit the Canning Town Centre and make something when quarantine is totally over !!

Claire is a wonderful teacher - took me through all the basics with my brand-new sewing machine as I am a brand-new sewer! From setting up my thread and bobbin, finding out what all the buttons mean, and then sewing straight and curved lines and putting in seams, she put my on the right track. I’ve since sewn some bunting and a face mask, and looking forward to starting a Tilly and the Buttons pattern!

Shona Clegg

Knowledgeable teacher, really helpful and interesting class. Will be back for more!

Nicola Whiteley

If like me, you have absolutely no clue what to do with a sewing machine, but fancy yourself as a budding designer or a contestant on the great British sewing bee; this is the class for you. I loved it. Claire is fabulous! Such a great teacher! Thorough and so encouraging.
I learned everything I needed to start sewing with lots more confidence than I started with. I can’t recommend Claire highly enough. 

Marta Meloni

I really enjoyed my session with Claire. The 1-2-1 approach is perfect for me as I had very specific needs and questions. I walked away with loads more knowledge and skills. Claire was also very flexible as I needed to rearrange the class and she had no issue doing that for me even though Obby said it was not possible ( something to consider improving on there Obby? ). Thank you Claire! 

Sarah Sloman

The course was amazing - I did it with a friend over zoom . Claire asked us exactly what we wanted to know about our sewing machine - we did tension , sewing round curved , hems and even button holes - it fired up
our enthusiasm to do more with our machines - we will certainly do another one of Claire’s courses - she was great .

Vinessa Brant

My first lesson with my brand new sewing machine was a landmark moment on my life.  Claire was absolutely amazing  with tips & tricks as well as troubleshooting. My machine stitching was a bit loose (not a tension  issue) and Claire understood & resolved the problem instantly. A thimbled mechanic!!😅 Fantastic session, highly recommend!

Learn to sew with a domestic sewing machine

Learn to Sew with a Machine - online

Hello and welcome.  My name is Claire and I own Couchman Bespoke an ethical tailoring company based in London, UK.  

You have an item of clothing that fits badly, is not the style you want or has a non-repairable rip.  We all have such items that were nice loved or that were brought but never worn, this is my sustainable answer to such an issue.  I will show you how to alter this with a step-by-step guide of what to do and when.

I would recommend that you have another person around to help with the fitting, however we will work around this if you are on your own during lockdown.  You will need cloth scissors, unpicker,  pins, chalk and some paper to write on.  A sewing machine can be useful though is not essential to this class.

The class is 1.5 hours long though this can be added to, time wise, for longer projects.  The class time will be taken up assessing the garment fit and talking you through how to measure or pin the changes for fit.  Or how to start making changes to the style of a garment, I will talk you through these changes step-by-step.  It is up to you how much information you want from me, time is our only constraint and this can be added to.  Unpicking and sewing take up most of the time.

Learn how to alter and the best ways to alter a garment, step by step.

Art of Alteration - online 

Hello and welcome.  
My name is Claire and I own Couchman Bespoke an ethical tailoring company based in London, UK.  

Learn to copy your favourite garment is a great way to get continued enjoyment out of a garment that fits like a dream.   This class is to learn how to copy a garment on paper.  If we have time you may get part way into cutting in cloth.  Cloth can be purchased via Organic Textile Company or remnant sources via Amo Threads, The New Craft House.  Bring a readiness to learn and maybe a note book.  You will be learning techniques that align with your abilities, and take home all that you complete for reference.  - Be aware that this session time is based on a fairly simple style.  

For any garment with layers, corset style or a jacket, coat etc, double the time will be required to complete.  Book the 3 hour session.  - You will copy the garment on paper.  For the opportunity to make it in cloth book the 6 hour session.  Again if the garment is more complicated with layers, corset style or a jacket, coat etc; please book for 12+ hours.  

As a business for good we collect donations for our Pay It Forward scheme to allow for people unable to afford for classes.

Copy a Garment

Copy your favourite garments for continued enjoyment.

Copy a Garment - online

This class is to learn new skills for life.  In this class you will learn how to darn holes in clothes loved by moths, sew a seam that has come undone, or patch a pocket that has become over-used just enough, even how to re-sew a dropped hem.  All done by hand as visible repairs. 

Bring your garments along to repair in person or try out some hand stitching on a pre-prepared cloth sample.   All equipment is provided. 

This class is for all ages, abilities and is a group class.  You will be in safe hands learning from myself (Claire) The Ethical Tailor with over 5 years of teaching behind me, in sewing and garment making skills.  These classes also give back when brought, giving to a project helping people with learning difficulties gain cooking skills in the UK.  This class will only happen on the dates and times available to book.




Learn hand sewing techniques that can be used to repair a garment

Learn to Repair Garments by Hand

Craft Central

Receive 2 metres of spot and cross paper for use in drawing out a garment pattern.  With 2 metres of calico (natural cotton) cloth for use in making a sample garment, to achieve the best fit.  These can be used alongside a number of classes.

Paper and cloth basics 

Get 2 metres of spot and cross paper with 2 metres of calico cloth.   To help when making a new clothing block.

Adult 

Child 

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My name is Claire, The Ethical Tailor.  I  am the founder of Couchman Bespoke an ethical tailors based in Canning Town.  I studied menswear at Brighton.

The Art of Cloth Draping for Clothing

Age Requirement