Want to learn how to alter garments that don't quite fit, patch and repair. This course will cover adjusting garments, hems, zips, patches and button holes, as well as adding or deleting decorations on garments. BYO sewing machine.

Your tutor is Pauline Walladge

Pauline Walladge has been teaching at WEA since 1989. 

With qualifications in fashion, soft furnishings and interior decorating, Pauline has been running craft groups for more than 30 years, as well as teaching at various TAFE campuses and community centres around Adelaide.

She ran her own private business for many years and has also privately taught students who have embarked on careers in the dressmaking industry.

She is also a past WEA Board Member and loves teaching at the WEA.

Re-design, Alterations and Mending

Course Description

Do you have clothes that don’t quite fit or garments you love that need a little TLC? 

This is the perfect course for anyone wanting to breathe new life into your wardrobe. 

Whether you're looking to take in a dress, adjust a hem, replace a zip, or patch a tear, this practical, hands-on course will give you the confidence and skills to alter and repair your own clothes at home.

You’ll also learn how to creatively redesign garments – whether that’s removing embellishments, adding new details, or changing a garment’s shape or function. 

With tips on handling different fabrics, choosing the right threads and needles, and tackling common repairs, you’ll leave the course with a better understanding of garment construction and a few newly refreshed pieces ready to wear again.

Course Structure

This course is taught through a combination of demonstrations, guided practical work, and class discussions. 

We’ll work through different alteration and repair techniques, from taking in seams and shortening hems, to patching and buttonhole placement. 

You’ll bring in your own garments to work on and get one-on-one guidance tailored to your needs. 

Notes and tips will be shared throughout, and you'll have the opportunity to ask questions and get help with tricky fabrics or challenging repairs.

Course Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

• Redesign or refresh a garment through simple alterations
• Take in, let out, or adjust hems to improve garment fit
• Choose appropriate cottons, needles, and techniques for different fabrics
• Repair garments by patching, inserting zippers, or fixing buttonholes
• Apply creative solutions to transform or personalise clothing
• Gain practical tips and confidence in handling a variety of garment types.

Course Requirements

Please bring:

• Sewing machine in good working order, with electrical cord, foot control and PRINTED manual (NOT a digital copy on phone or tablet)
• Garments to mend or alter – if you don’t have anything you might like to raid your local op shop
• Notions to mend garments, eg – zips, patches, etc
• Sewing kit with threads, bobbins, sharp pins, sharp scissors, etc
• Extra fabric and spare zips to practice with
• Notebook and pen