Gallery - Sew School

Sarah

"Helens Sew Club is fun, friendly and inspiring. I'm so surprised that even I can use a sewing machine - its all in the teaching!" - Sarah

Ruth

"I loved the cushion making Sew Club and feel very proud of the cover that I completed in one morning which I have to say looks very professional." - Ruth

Kirsty

" I loved your course - it was very well organized. I never felt bored or lost. You were always on hand and you made
things very clear. I also appreciated having the file that you gave me. It has all the things I have learnt on your course
and is a good to refer back to. My daughter didn't receive any info on her course and I know that at times she forgot
things and it was hard to get the teachers attention, as the class was so big. The small classes you take are exactly what
a novice needs!" -Kristy

Louise

I absolutely loved Helen's Sew Basic Course. She is a fantastic teacher. Friendly, highly knowledgeable and very patient. The classes are small so Helen has plenty of time to help everyone no matter what speed you learn at. As a complete novice to a sewing machine I was amazed at what I was able to achieve after a few lessons. After my second lesson I made two envelope pillow cases and after my third I made my daughter a pair of leggings. I cannot recommend Helen highly enough and am eagerly awaiting the start of her new sewing club. Louise

Vanessa

What can I say about the course other than brilliant? "When I came to my first lesson I didn't know how to turn on a sewing machine. After the Sew Basic course I could actually make things! A great introduction to machine sewing and very good value."

Lucy

Over the years I’ve made curtains, done alterations and run up fancy dress creations for my daughter – but always tentatively. Borrowing my mother’s sewing machine, I always felt I would lose control, but thanks to Helen Mackenzie and Sew School I’ve been able to finesse these skills and even now have a machine of my own. It was surprisingly satisfying and you’re left with a great sense of achievement. What’s more, Helen has a fun, relaxed manner and is very good at dealing with a range of confidence levels. She is patient, happy to repeat things and demonstrate personally and Helen’s useful reference booklet is well laid out and clearly worded and includes a comprehensive list of recommended suppliers. Lucy at 'High Living Barnet'

Julie

I went along to Helen's Sew basic course after not getting my sewing machine out for several years and seeing it as the enemy as it would always eat up my material. I had a very basic knowledge of how to thread the machine and make a simple garment but everything that I have ever made looked very botched and amateurish. After going on Helen's course, with her calm manner, patience, clear instructions and fabulous reference book, I now feel that I have the confidence to be able to produce professional looking items using a variety of techniques. Every week I wanted to go home and make something new using the new skills that Helen taught me. My friends have seen some of my work and have even put in orders for me to make them things too! For the first time, with thanks to Helen, I am proud of something I have produced on my sewing machine." - Julie

Imelda

"Hello Helen, I just want to let you know how much I enjoyed my sewing lessons with you. I looked forward to my Tuesday morning lesson every week. Having a small class made it so much more personal and any problems that I had were quickly answered." Regards Imelda

Bernie

I found the course very informative. The first lesson for me was a little slow for me but it was good to practice and also realise that the way the bobbin went into the machine did in fact matter! It was also helpful to have a little time to talk to the others in the class. The rest of the course was good and the notes have been an excellent reference source. It has given me more confidence when trying to sew/mend items at home. I particularly like the way you teach all the different types of seams/stitches and then get the class to use these techniques to make little samples. It really helps to break down the complexities, real or imagined, being able to make/sew projects.

Caroline

"Just a little note to thank you so much for all your patient tuition on the sew basic course. I didn't realise there was so much to learn about sewing, and I'm so pleased to have found someone to teach all the techniques properly. Now I feel inspired to start making things and improve my confidence with practice." - Caroline

Jane

"I thought Sew Basic was an extremely comprehensive course, which has proved to be very inspiring. Your instruction and accompanying booklet was very clear and concise and great to have at home as a point of reference. Since doing the course I have made several things, which I'm extremely pleased with and never thought possible! I've definitely got the sewing bug! I would (and do) highly recommend Sew Basic." Jane Xx

Jessica, St Albans

" The basic course was exactly what id been looking for - it taught me the basics and how to build onto each new skill learnt, using practical examples to show how something is created using the various steps which i found really encouraging as i was able to put my new skills into practice after only a few lessons. The course didn't over complicate things, which has motivated me to now try new projects. Helens teaching style is relaxed and she manages to share a huge amount of knowledge and skills without it being overwhelming. I would definitely recommend this course as its given me the confidence to attempt all sorts of projects and has sparked a real interest in sewing for me which I know ill keep up over the years. It also proved to be a good giggle each week, as the ladies in our group were lovely! Thanks very much Helen and ill be back!" - Jessica, St Albans

Anjuna

Regarding your sew school, I thought it was fantastic. The small class sizes are just perfect for beginners like myself who have never used a sewing machine before. Your teaching skills are just brilliant; you go at the right pace to ensure that everyone gets the attention they need. I never expected to learn so much. The folder of written information you provided was just brilliant as it gives you something to refer to when at home, along with all the examples that we created in class. I learnt a great deal and not just from the practical aspect of the course but also from the verbal information that you provided with regards to topics not covered in the 5 weeks, such as pattern cutting. I found the course very inspirational, and just after 5 weeks I attempted to sew an alien outfit for my son's nursery party. The outfit consisted of trousers, a basic top with velcro fastening at the back, and a sequined body and I even made my own bias binding. My next project is to make both my boys a bedding set and so will put my button hole technique to good use. Thank you once again Helen, your course was just what I was looking for. I just wish I could attend your sew club. I definitely recommend Sew Basic.

Helen

"I really enjoyed the Sew basic course. My confidence grew hugely and things that had once looked impossible became completely "do-able"! Thanks Helen

Kate

"A really big thank you for taking the scariness out of sewing for me! I have wanted to be creative with the sewing
machine for such a long time and your course has really given me the confidence and skills to help me do this. You have
such a flexible approach and friendly teaching manner that made learning such fun. A resounding thumbs up for a
course that exceeded my expectations and I shall definitely be booking for the Sew Club!" - Kate