✂️ Frequently Asked Questions
Got a question? You're probably not the first! 😊
Starting something new can feel a little daunting, but don't worry – we've taught over 20,000 sewing classes over the last 20 years, so we've heard just about every question imaginable!
If you can't find the answer below, just pop me a message via the Contact page. I'm always happy to help (unless I'm in the middle of unpicking something... then it might take me five minutes! 😂)
🧵 Do you provide sewing machines?
Yes!
If you don't have a sewing machine yet, or you'd like to try sewing before buying one, you can hire one when booking online.
Already have a machine? Brilliant! Bring it along! We welcome machines of all ages (some of my favourites are older than I am! 😂), as long as they have the double insulated safety symbol (the little square inside another square).
Not sure? Just send me the make and model and I'll happily check it for you.
Thinking about buying your first machine? I've written a guide to help you choose without wasting your money.
👉 Buying a New Sewing Machine – The Updated Guide
🛍️ Where do you recommend buying fabric and sewing supplies?
I'm asked this almost every week!
I've put together a list of some of my favourite UK fabric shops, along with honest recommendations.
I've also created an Amazon Storefront packed with the sewing tools, books, gadgets and accessories I genuinely use in classes. If you've ever wondered "What scissors does Gemma use?"... you'll probably find them on there!
🧰 What do I need to bring?
Every class is different, so everything you need to bring (if anything!) is listed on the booking page and in your confirmation email.
Please have a quick read before you come along, as some classes include materials while others ask you to bring your own fabric.
Oh... and if you're more comfortable sewing in slippers than shoes... go for it! 😊
☕ Are there refreshments?
Tuesday evening classes are held at The Pheasant Pub, so drinks and snacks are available to buy.
Some workshops include refreshments too.
Let's be honest though... you're not paying me to drink tea! 😂☕
💷 How much are lessons?
Prices vary depending on the class, but they start from around £4 per hour.
Thanks to grants, fundraising and some amazing supporters, we've been able to keep classes affordable while still offering small groups and lots of one-to-one help.
✂️ What classes do you run?
Loads!
Throughout the year we run everything from:
• Complete Beginners Sewing
• Dressmaking
• Patchwork & Quilting
• Overlocker Workshops
• Alterations
• Free Motion Embroidery
• Children's Sewing Club
• Teen Sewing Club
• One-to-One Tuition
...and plenty of seasonal workshops too.
If you can't see the class you're looking for, don't panic! New workshops are added all the time, so keep checking back or sign up to the newsletter.
😬 I've never sewn before... will I be the worst one there?
Definitely not.
Honestly, most people walk through the door saying exactly the same thing!
My beginner classes are designed for people who have never touched a sewing machine before, so you'll be in very good company.
Nobody is judged.
Nobody gets left behind.
Nobody expects perfection.
We just have a laugh, make things and learn together.
👩🏫 Are the lessons formal?
Not at all!
I'll usually demonstrate something together for 10–15 minutes, then everyone gets stuck into their own project.
The rest of the session is all about individual help, answering questions, solving problems and generally chatting while we sew.
There's usually a fair amount of laughter too!
👧 What age do you have to be?
Children's Sewing Club: Ages 4–11
Teen Sewing Club: Ages 11–16
Adult classes: Ages 16+ unless stated otherwise.
For Children's Sewing Club, a parent or responsible adult must remain on site throughout the session.
📍 Where are classes held?
Sunday Classes
Adult classes, Children's Sewing Club and Teen Sewing Club.
Tuesday Evenings
Wednesday & Thursday
📍 Stitch Studio, Brackla CF31 2NT
All venues have free parking and are fully accessible.
🌈 I'm neurodivergent... will I fit in?
Absolutely.
Whether you're autistic, have ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, anxiety or simply prefer learning in a different way, you'll be very welcome here.
There's no pressure to keep up with anyone else.
Ask questions.
Take your time.
Wear headphones if it helps.
Take a break if you need one.
Neurospicy brains are always welcome. 💛
👖 Do you do clothing alterations?
Yes... but we're very popular!
There can sometimes be a waiting list, so please get in touch for current availability.
Unfortunately we don't undertake wedding dress or bridal alterations.
🔧 Do you repair sewing machines?
Not myself.
For servicing and repairs I always recommend Graham Hughes Sewing. They do a fantastic job and know their stuff.
❤️ Why Stitch Bridgend?
Because sewing should be fun.
For nearly 20 years I've been helping people discover that they're far more creative than they ever imagined.
Whether you're threading a sewing machine for the very first time, making your own clothes, quilting your first blanket or finally finishing that project that's been sat in a cupboard for years... I'll be there to help.
Over 20,000 classes taught, thousands of happy students, and I still genuinely love seeing someone's face when they say...
"I made this!" 🥹✂️
💛 Still got a question?
Just get in touch!
I don't bite (unless someone cuts fabric with paper scissors... then we might have words 😉).
I'd love to help you find the right class. 💛
