Shirring Summer Dress Workshop – Make a Beautiful Dress from a Duvet Cover

Sew Collective Studio by Lisa Marie

In this fun and creative sewing workshop, you’ll make a gorgeous shirred summer dress using a duvet cover new  or up cycle, giving new life to fabric that might otherwise go unused.

Using the popular shirring dress pattern from The Sew Simple Sewing Book by Tammy Johal, you’ll learn how to create soft elasticated rows of shirring that shape the bodice beautifully while keeping the dress comfortable, floaty, and easy to wear.

This is a brilliant sustainable sewing project – perfect for transforming bedding into a unique, one-of-a-kind summer outfit.

During the workshop you will learn:

• How to prepare and cut fabric from a duvet cover for garment making
• How to set up your machine for shirring using elastic thread
• How to sew neat rows of shirring to create a fitted bodice
• How to follow and adapt the shirring dress pattern from The Tammy Sewing Book
• How to finish straps, skirt, and hems for a professional finish
• Tips for achieving even gathering and shaping for different body sizes

This workshop is ideal for confident beginners and intermediate sewists who want to try shirring for the first time or improve their technique while making a wearable summer dress.

By the end of the day, you’ll leave with a beautifully unique shirred dress – relaxed, breathable, and perfect for warm weather.

To Bring:

Duvet cover double or king size

What’s Included:

• Full-day sewing workshop tuition
• Sewing pattern and instructions 
• Use of sewing machines, overlockers, and studio equipment
• Expert guidance with garment construction techniques
• Pattern advice and fitting support
• Shirring elastic 
• threads 

SEW AT 174 
174 Derby Road
Stapleford,
Nottingham.  NG9 7AY

Travel

There is limited on-street parking in Stapleford  so we recommend one of the Broxtowe council carparks the nearest being Halls Road (2 minute walk)   https://www.broxtowe.gov.uk/for-you/roads-parking-travel/car-parks/stapleford-car-parks/  or the Derby Road Central Car park on Derby Road 

If you are arriving from Nottingham or Derby via the Trent Barton I4 the stop is Halls Road. 

If you’ve any questions about accessibility or parking for blue badge holders then let me know.

Refreshments:

Tea coffee and snacks to purchase 

More Detailed:
All of our sewing workshops and courses are designed for participants aged 16 years and over.