Beginners sewing classes · Claygate & Oxshott
Learn to sew — from your very first stitch
Relaxed, small-group beginners sewing classes in Claygate and Oxshott. Ten weekly sessions, a maximum of six people, and a sewing machine waiting for you.
New blocks start Monday 4 January and Wednesday 6 January 2027.
10
weekly sessions
6
people max per class
1
machine each, provided
£255
for the full course
Always wanted to sew, but never known where to start?
Maybe there's a machine in the loft you're scared to switch on, or a pile of clothes waiting to be altered. These classes are for you.
Over ten weeks, you'll go from threading a machine for the first time to finishing real, useful projects you'll be proud to use — in a friendly class where no question is too basic.
THE COURSE
What you'll learn
Each week builds on the last, so by the end of the course you'll have the skills and confidence to keep sewing at home.
Getting to know your sewing machine: threading, winding a bobbin, changing the needle and stitch settings
Sewing straight lines, curves, corners and seams with confidence
Choosing fabric and understanding grain, pressing and cutting accurately
Reading and using a sewing pattern
Finishing seams so your makes look neat and lasts
Zips and other fastenings
Each week you'll build skills as you complete different projects, including a tote bag, zipped box bag, and pyjama bottoms. Items that, I hope, you'll be proud to use and wear.
What's included
10 weekly sessions
2 1/2 hours each, building step by step
Sewing equipment
Throughout the course I’ll provide scissors, unpicker, iron and board, measuring tape etc.
Your own class machine
No need to own or carry one
Take it all home
Everything you make is yours
6 people max
Plenty of one-to-one help
Fabric, thread & patterns
Everything to complete your first two projects in the first two weeks
Tea & Coffee
Refreshments to help us sew
What to bring
A notebook and pen, if you like to take notes
Reading glasses, if you use them for close work
From session three, you will need to bring along your chosen fabric and matching thread in order to complete your garments. I’ll talk through this in detail in the first session, and will provide a list of suitable fabrics and how much to buy, so you’ll have plenty of time to get what you need.
Dates, venues and price
There is a morning session (10.00 am - 12.30) and evening session (18.30-21.00) to choose from at both venues. Classes run on a Monday in Claygate, and Wednesday in Oxshott.
Claygate Village Hall, Church Rd, Claygate, Esher KT10 0JP
Oxshott Community Hub, Verrey Lane, Oxshott KT22 0DB
Both venues have a small car park that is free.
New blocks start Monday 4 January and Wednesday 6 January 2027.
The costs of a block of 10 weeks is £255. That works out at £25.50 a session, with a machine, equipment and expert teaching included.
Courses are booked and paid for as a block of ten. Places are limited to six per class and are allocated on a first-come basis.
Can't make these days? Join the mailing list to hear first about new dates, times and workshops.
WHO IT’S FOR
All you need is enthusiasm
Complete beginners who have never used a sewing machine
Anyone who sewed years ago and wants a confidence boost
People who want to make their own clothes and homewares
Anyone looking for a creative outlet, and a chance to meet like-minded people locally
If you're not sure whether the class is right for you, just get in touch.
Meet your teacher
Hi, I'm Emma, the person behind With a Thread. I'm a qualified teacher and I design and sew bags and clothes.
I'm passionate about passing on the skills that give people the confidence to make things for themselves. My classes are relaxed, patient and practical. I'll show you, help you, and let you go at your own pace. Learn more