Big Hands

Big Hands at Little Hands

At Little Hands Design we pride ourselves on being that little bit different to other sewing courses on offer. The course is actually lead by you! But, don’t be scared! We have expert teachers on hand to guide you through any challenge you want to take on, whether that’s demystifying dressmaking patterns, copying and remaking your favourite clothes, or making home-wares, everyone works on their own project in their own time! You can bring along your own ideas or if you are not sure you can use one of the many projects we have collected or expertly developed here over the years.

Our classes are mixed ability – from absolute beginners – who have never threaded a machine before – to experienced dressmakers- sharpening up their skills. This creates a unique buzz in the studio where you learn and get inspired by your fellow students just as much as you do from the teachers!

If you are a parent of a teenager – our classes are the perfect opportunity for some special time to share a hobby with your older child at a stage in their life when shared memories are sometimes hard to come by!!!

Our tailor-made studio is literally bursting at the seams with all the fabric, trimmings and equipment you need to achieve your sewing goals! We sell these at a very reasonable rate, with all the proceeds going towards our bursary scheme for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. Or, if you prefer to source your own, our teachers will be able to advise you on what is best for your chosen project!

Sounds good so far? But don’t just take our word for it, here is what our current students have to say!

Current Student Testimonials

I appreciate that I can work at my own pace and do not have to rush. I want I make my own projects and like the flexibility of the class where not everyone has to make the same. – Mika

If you are interested in making your own clothes this is the place. I had a sewing machine for a long time and thought I could do it myself but it is so much better to learn in a place with other people and teachers who can show you the right way. I really impressed myself at what I have managed to make. You go home and just say ‘yes, I have done it! No more ZARA!’ – Margarita

Really enjoyed the freedom of making my own garments while receiving great advise from the teacher. I appreciate being able to re-learn or brush up old skills and add new ones. Different ages and backgrounds and experiences make this a very friendly and stimulating atmosphere to work. I really like the fact that there is a bigger purpose to the company, as a non-profit organisation teaching children as well, not just being a money-making venture.’ – Celine

I like the teachers, they are very helpful and nice. The friendly social atmosphere is something I really look forward to every week! – Henrietta

Relaxed atmosphere with very knowledgeable teachers and the room seems to have everything you could ever possibly need for sewing and dressmaking!- Caroline

Basic Skills: Threading the machine, how to measure yourself, understanding glossary on dressmaking patterns, seams, hems & darts, zips & buttonholes, how to copy an easy garment, learn about the right fabric for the right project.

Advanced Skills: Invisible Zips, bound button holes, welt pockets, fitted sleeves & cuffs, ruffles & pleats, draping on the stand, pattern alterations, how to copy a more advanced garment.

If you prefer working with your own fabric we can advise you on how much to buy once we have decided on the project. All fabrics need to be pre-washed and we can advise on suitability.

Do you often find yourself taking over the dining table with your fabrics, or crawling around on the floor to cut out your patterns? We’ve all been there! Living in a metropolitan city like London – space to work is often at a premium and studio rent can be rather costly.

Designers, students, and makers alike: the answer to all your space worries is here! Here at the Little Hands Design CIC studios we have huge cutting tables, domestic sewing machines, over lockers and a studio filled to the brim with essential dressmaking equipment all waiting for you to come in and utilise. We even have fabrics and notions you can purchase at a very reasonable rate (all proceeds going to our bursary scheme for disadvantaged kids!).

Our open studio is available every Tuesday during term time, from 9:30am – 9pm, no long-term contracts or expensive fees! Just £6 per hour – you even get an hour free of charge if you buy a block of 10 hours!

A great relaxing spot in the heart of North London (brilliantly connected with public transport (Jubilee, Northern, Metropolitan Line and Overground) It is perfect for students, designers in the making or keen sewers in need of a bit more room!

Karen is one of our regulars and here’s why she keeps coming back:

‘I like the big tables for cutting out I can relax here and also get help with the fitting. It is really nice to watch what everyone else is doing, especially during the kids’ classes!’

‘Open studio at Little Hands gives me the space and equipment to work on my projects. The tutors are knowledgeable and happy to give advice if I need it. It is well worth the small fee if you need space or a little bit of help to advance your skills.’ (Josh)