Chichester BID

Lino Printing for Beginners at Clothkits
2025-09-20 10:00 - 13:00 UTC | Clothkits, 16 The Hornet, Chichester, PO19 7JG
Looking for a creative way to spend a few mindful hours? Come and join us for a gentle and inspiring introduction to linocut printing, where you’ll learn the basics and create a small set of hand-printed gift cards to take home.
This half-day workshop is designed especially for beginners, so no experience is needed, just a willingness to try something new and enjoy the process. You’ll start with a short introduction to the fascinating history of linocut printing before moving on to explore the tools and techniques used in this bold and expressive printmaking style. Guided step by step, you’ll carve your own design into lino, ink it up, and print your finished artwork onto card – perfect for gifting or keeping as a memento of your creativity.
About your Teacher:
Rachael is a local artist and teacher with a deep love for creativity in all its forms. Her own linocuts are inspired by the shapes, textures and rhythms of the natural world, and she brings a calm and encouraging teaching style to every class.
Class Size: Maximum class size of 6
Skills: Complete beginners – no drawing or printing experience required.
Materials: All tools and materials are provided for the workshop, including your lino, cutting tools, ink and card. Just bring along an apron as it can get a little inky!
Course Duration: Half day
This workshop costs £60 and can be booked here.

Absolute Beginners Knitting Course at Clothkits
2025-10-10 13:00 - 15:00
Join us for an absolute beginners’ six-week knitting course here at Clothkits! This engaging course will expertly guide you through a variety of stitches and techniques, allowing you to create a beautiful blanket square by square, week by week. If you’re looking for a smaller project, you can also choose to make a stylish cushion.
Throughout the course, you will learn essential skills, including reading patterns, casting on, knitting, purling, creating stripes, working with moss stitch and cables, picking up stitches, casting off, sewing, and finishing your projects, along with much more!
The next course will start on Friday 10th October and run for 6 consecutive weeks.

This course costs £240 and can be booked here.

Classic Tie Making Sewing Workshop at Clothkits
2025-12-06 10:00 - 13:00
Learn how to make a classic tie in this excellent half-day workshop. With a vast selection of Liberty London Tana Lawn fabrics at your fingertips, you can fashion a one-of-a-kind tie for yourself, your wedding party, or a loved one. It is a great skill to have and once you know how, you’ll be making them for everyone!
About your Teacher: As well as being an incredible designer, pattern cutter and seamstress, Maria is also an excellent teacher, who’s passion for sewing is infectious.
Class Size: Maximum class size of 6
Skills: Suitable for intermediates – lots of hand sewing!
Materials: You will need to provide 70cm of fabric, 70cm of chad, and thread in a suitable colour. All of which can be purchased from Clothkits on the day of your workshop.
Suitable for lightweight cottons such as Tana Lawn. You are welcome to bring your own, or choose from our huge selection in the shop.
Course Duration: 1 half day
This workshop costs £60 and can be booked here.

Stitching & Visible Mending, Boro & Sashiko Workshop at Clothkits
2026-01-10 13:30 - 16:30, 2026-05-16 13:30 - 16:30
Join us for a Slow Stitch and Visible Mending Techniques class here with the fantastic Charlotte from A Nest of Gentle Makers. Charlotte will introduce you to the modern visible mending techniques which is an amalgamation of Japanese Boro using sashiko stitching and other traditions, where running stitch is used to quilt and reinforce garments. Using small running stitches you can be as neat and tidy as you like or completely relaxed and free!
About your Teacher:
Charlotte from A Nest of Gentle Makers has had a passion for textiles and making since childhood. She is a keen believer in mending and derives great satisfaction from continuing the life of a favourite jumper or cardigan. She is a free spirit (messy) darner so is thrilled with the new interest in visible mending rather than aiming for an invisible repair!
Class Size:
Maximum class size of 10.
Skills:
This course is for all abilities.
Materials:
You will need to bring a pair of jeans or something similar to repair, and some decorative fabrics to repair with. Charlotte will have small sewing kits and will provide small remnants for you to practice on before you tackle your own project. You will need a small budget on the day for sashiko needles and Japanese fabrics should you wish to use them. Bar aprons will be available to purchase if you do not bring something to mend.
Duration:
1 half day
This workshop costs £60 and can be booked here.

Jo's Sewing & Dressmaking Course, 5 Half Day Sessions at Clothkits
2026-01-14 12:30 - 15:30
Whether you’re just starting out or aiming to refine your dressmaking skills, this 5-week dressmaking course is tailored to your needs. Join us for expert guidance and take your projects to the next level!
This friendly and sociable sewing session is dedicated to you and helping you along on your sewing journey. As such each session is very much guided by you and your project. Being a small group means you will get plenty of individual attention and time to learn. On the first session bring the sewing project you wish to work on or if you’re new to sewing, just bring yourself as we have plenty of simple patterns in the shop for you to choose from.
Suggested topics: Learning to read commercial patterns, taking personal measurements, selecting and cutting the correct size pattern, making simple pattern adjustments, cutting out and marking up fabric, sewing darts, different types of seams, pleats, hems, pockets, zips, neatening edges and other techniques relevant to your pattern style.
About your Teacher:
Jo gained her experience in the fashion industry as a designer/pattern cutter in ladies’ outerwear. She has taught adults sewing and pattern cutting skills for over a decade, from absolute beginners sewing to bra making, simple pattern alterations to fitting masterclasses. Jo is an inspiring teacher and encourages creativity and confidence in dressmaking and sewing projects.
Class Size: Maximum class size of 5.
Skills: All levels of sewers are welcome.
Materials needed: Bring your projects to work on during the session. Sewing machines and overlockers are available to use in the studio as well as all the basic sewing kit.
Course Duration: 5 half day sessions.
This workshop costs £300 and can be booked here.

Get to Know Your Overlocker - Beginner's Sewing Workshop at Clothkits
2026-01-24 10:00 - 13:00
Have you felt the presence of something under your bed, in your cupboard, tucked away in a cardboard box gathering dust, afraid to open it . . . is it an overlocker?! So many times sewists make this key purchase only to be intimidated by the number of dials and hooks or it becomes unthreaded so you consign it to the dark. Let us help you bring your overlocker back into the light and show you how to get the most out of your machine.

In this workshop, we will teach you the skills and techniques so that you have the confidence to start using your overlocker as an integral part of your sewing projects.
We will cover:

The basic anatomy of the overlocker
How to thread up and change threads
The basic set up and adjustment, including tension wheels, cutting blade and differential feed
3 and 4 thread overlocking; changing the needles
Sewing simple seams on woven and jersey fabrics
How to overlock around curves and corners

This workshop costs £60.00. To find out more and book your space, click here.

Bra Making Workshop at Clothkits
2026-01-31 10:00 - 16:30
Fed up with uncomfortable, unflattering or just plain boring bras? Ready to take your sewing to the next level? Join us for this Bra Making Workshop and learn how to create beautiful, better-fitting bras tailored to your shape.
You’ll begin by getting to know the specialist fabrics and findings (that’s all the bits and bobs that go into a bra!) before sewing your first sample bra. You’ll practise essential techniques, including working with 6mm seam allowances, applying different types of elastic and inserting underwires with precision.
Once your bra is sewn, you’ll try it on and learn how to make any necessary adjustments. You’ll leave with a personalised bra pattern, fitted to your shape, and the skills to make more at home. If time allows, we’ll also explore additional techniques such as working with lace and foam, so you can confidently expand into other bra styles.
Is this course for you? This course is ideal for experienced sewists and adventurous improvers. You must be confident using a sewing machine, reading patterns, and working with fabric.
Materials: All fabric, findings and the pattern for your test bra will be provided.
Optional:

Fine, high-quality glass-headed pins
Small, sharp-pointed scissors
Washable fabric marker pen

Please note: your first bra may not be a perfect fit, but it’s a vital step in developing a pattern that works for your body. With expert support, you’ll leave with the confidence and knowledge to keep sewing bras that fit and flatter.
About your Teacher: Jo gained her experience in the fashion industry as a designer/pattern cutter in ladies’ outerwear. She has taught adults sewing and pattern cutting skills for over a decade, from absolute beginners sewing to bra making, simple pattern alterations to fitting masterclasses. Jo is an inspiring teacher and encourages creativity and confidence in dressmaking and sewing projects.
Class Size: Maximum class size of 5.
Course Duration: 2 Full Days
This workshop costs £295 and can be booked here.

How to Make a Roman Blind Workshop at Clothkits
2026-02-05 10:00 - 16:00, 2026-05-06 10:00 - 16:00
Join our full-day workshop to learn how to make lined and interlined Roman blinds. You will gain the skills to stitch the blinds, accurately measure your window, calculate fabric quantities, understand pattern repeats, determine rod pocket positions, cord and fix the blind, and utilise the necessary hand-sewn stitches to complete the project.
During the workshop, you will create a 60 x 100cm sample blind that is lined and interlined with dowel pockets and mostly hand-sewn without any visible stitches on the front. The finished blind will be corded and mounted onto a fabric-covered wooden batten, meeting current safety standards. You will also receive comprehensive notes to give you the confidence to create your own Roman blinds.
About your Teacher: Chrissie Cardno owns an interior design and soft furnishings business called Portico Interiors in Surrey. She also specialises in antique painted furniture and has hosted workshops on paint techniques.
Class Size: Maximum class size of 5
Skills: Suitable for students with a good knowledge of using a sewing machine and hand sewing skill are important.
Materials: All materials you will need will be supplied by the tutor a cost of £27 made payable on the day
Course Duration: Full Day
This workshop costs £120 and can be booked here.

The Sewing Bee Techniques Workshop at Clothkits
2026-02-14 10:00 - 16:00, 2026-04-18 10:00 - 16:00
Ready to take your sewing to the next level? This practical, technique-packed workshop is designed to help you build a toolkit of professional dressmaking skills that will elevate your makes, whether you’re sewing garments, homeware, or accessories.
Led by expert tutor Maria, you’ll learn how to sew a variety of seam finishes including basic, curved, piped and overlocked seams. You’ll also gain confidence in essential construction techniques such as darts, facings, tailor tacks, zips, bias binding and buttonholes. Maria will guide you through more advanced skills like understitching and setting in sleeves, and most importantly, explain when and why to use each method for the best finish.
This workshop is ideal for anyone looking to refine their sewing and pick up transferable techniques that can be used across a wide range of projects – not just dressmaking!
About your Teacher:
Maria is an incredible pattern cutter, designer and seamstress. Maria has her own bespoke dressmaking studio here at Clothkits.
Class Size: Maximum class size of 8.
Skills: Ideal for those with a little bit of confidence using a machine (threading, regular sewing etc), but wanting to learn techniques.
Materials: All materials are included.
Course Duration: 1 full day
This workshop costs £120 and can be booked here.

Trouser Fitting Masterclass at Clothkits
2026-02-28 10:00 - 16:00
Ready to conquer trouser fitting once and for all? In this two-day hands-on course, you’ll learn how to adapt a commercial trouser pattern to fit your unique body shape comfortably, confidently and with precision.
Bring along your chosen trouser pattern (for woven fabrics only, no jeans) and we’ll guide you through accurate measuring, tissue fitting, toile construction and personalised adjustments. By the end of the weekend, you’ll leave with a completed toile and a corrected pattern, ready to make trousers that truly fit.
What you’ll learn:

How to take accurate body measurements
How to choose the right pattern size
Tissue fitting and how to assess fit
How to identify your own fitting needs such as full tummy, flat or curvy bottom, long or short rise, sway back, and more
How to alter your toile and transfer changes back to your paper pattern
How two-dimensional pattern adjustments affect three-dimensional garments
How to build confidence to make fit tweaks on future patterns too

Choosing a pattern: We recommend a well-fitting or close-fitting trouser pattern in a woven fabric, ideally high-waisted. Butterick B6845 is a great choice, with built-in Palmer/Pletsch fitting guidance. Avoid loose or low-rise styles, as they tend to hide common fit issues.
Is this class for you? Suitable for confident sewists who have sewn a number of garments using commercial patterns. This masterclass is ideal if you’ve made trousers before but weren’t satisfied with the fit. Bring along your previous makes if you have them.
Materials: You will need your choice of trouser pattern plus calico (2m) and pattern paper (Our Swedish Pattern Paper is preferred) Both available on the day in the store.
About your Teacher: Jo gained her experience in the fashion industry as a designer/pattern cutter in ladies’ outerwear. She has taught adults sewing and pattern cutting skills for over a decade, from absolute beginners sewing to bra making, simple pattern alterations to fitting masterclasses. Jo is an inspiring teacher and encourages creativity and confidence in dressmaking and sewing projects.
Class Size: Maximum class size of 5.
Course Duration: 2 Full Days – 28th February & 1st March.
This workshop cost £240 and can be booked here.

Pattern Cutting Course for Beginners at Clothkits
2026-03-05 10:00 - 16:00
Join us for a 3-week pattern cutting course with expert tutor Maria Pulley. In this course, you will learn how to draft basic skirt, bodice, and sleeve patterns using your own body measurements. You’ll also learn how to manipulate darts and adapt patterns to create various styles and designs. Additionally, you’ll gain the skills to adjust patterns for a perfect fit.
Please note for this course you will be working in calico to make toiles, not finished garments.
About your Teacher: Maria is an incredible pattern cutter, designer and seamstress. Her love for creating is infectious and you will come away from any of her workshops feeling inspired.
Class Size: Maximum class size of 6.
Skills: Ideal for those with dressmaking experience.
Materials: You will need a large lever arch file or something similar for your notes and patterns, a sharp pencil and a calculator for those tricky measurements. Additionally, you will be working with calico and pattern paper which you can buy on the day, but if you have some feel free to bring it along.
Course Duration: 3 full days – Thursday 5th/12th/19th March
This workshop costs £360 and can be booked here.

Beginner's Crochet Workshop at Clothkits
2026-03-14 13:30 - 16:00
This session is ideal for complete beginners in crochet. Melanie can help you learn the basics of crochet, such as how to hold your hook and yarn comfortably, how to make a chain, a loop and double crochet. Or perhaps you are ready to take the next steps, such as reading a pattern and beginning your first crochet project. We have plenty of tea, coffee and biscuits to keep the grey matter alert!
About your Teacher:
Melanie of a Mindful Crafter is a fantastic crocheter, with masses of inspiring projects under her belt.
Class Size: Maximum class size of 8.
Skills: Ideal for complete beginners.
Materials: Included for use during the class, and available to purchase for a small amount if you would like to keep your hook.
Course Duration: 1 half Day
This workshop costs £60 and can be booked here.

Beginner's Learn to Sew Sewing Workshop at Clothkits
2026-03-21 10:00 - 16:00, 2026-05-09 10:00 - 16:00
Would you like to start sewing on a machine and make lovely projects for your home, gifts for friends or family? Maybe you last did sewing at school and would love to brush up on your skills and learn a few more techniques.
This course will give you the know how to sew with confidence. From learning how to set up a machine and sew basic seams and hems, we go on to make an envelope cushion, make button holes, have a go at applique and then at the end of the day we all make a cute lined tote bag, picking up on some essential bag making skills along the way. You will leave this fabulous one day workshop with lots of inspiration and armed with your handouts and samples equipped with the skills to start you off on your fabulous sewing journey!

About your Teacher: Maria Pulley is an incredible designer, pattern cutter and seamstress, who works out of a studio here at Clothkits.
Class Size: Maximum of 8
Skills: Suitable for total beginners
Materials: All materials will be provided
Course Duration: 1 Full Day
This workshop costs £120.00 and can be booked here.

Granny Squares and Colour Theory Crochet Workshop at Clothkits
2026-04-18 13:30 - 16:00
This session is suitable for those who have made a start at experimenting with crochet. If you are getting to grips with holding your hook & yarn and have had a little play with the basic stitches – you are ready to have a go at the ever popular Granny Square! It’s the most versatile pattern out there and can be used to create blankets, cushions, gorgeous garments, bags, accessories and even slippers! As with all our workshops, we have plenty of tea, coffee and biscuits to keep the grey matter alert!

About your Teacher:
Melanie of a Mindful Crafter is a fantastic crocheter, with masses of inspiring projects under her belt.
Class Size:
Maximum class size of 8.
Skills:
Ideal for improvers.
Materials:
Included for use during the class, and available to purchase for a small amount if you would like to keep your hook.
Course Duration:
1 half day
This workshop costs £60 and can be booked here.

Learn to Darn Workshop at Clothkits
2026-04-25 13:30 - 16:30
Keep those jumpers, socks and cardis going! Slow fashion and mending your clothes are becoming more and more popular and darning is a great and practical way to add individuality to a garment. In this relaxing workshop, Charlotte will introduce you to the basics of darning in a colourful and fun way.
About your Teacher:
Charlotte from A Nest of Gentle Makers has had a passion for textiles and making since childhood. She is a keen believer in mending and derives great satisfaction from continuing the life of a favourite jumper or cardigan. She is a free spirit (messy) darner so is thrilled with the new interest in visible mending rather than aiming for an invisible repair!
Class Size: Maximum class size of 10.
Skills: This course is for all abilities.
Materials: You will need to bring a jumper or similar piece you wish to darn. Charlotte will have small sewing kits and will provide small remnants for you to practice on before you tackle your own project.
Course Duration: Half day
This workshop costs £60 and can be booked here.

Copy Your Clothes Pattern Drafting Workshop at Clothkits
2026-05-02 10:00 - 16:00
If you have a favourite garment that is worn out and you just can’t find a replacement. Perhaps you wish you could have it in different fabrics or colours – then our Copy Your Clothes workshop is for you!
In this one day workshop you will learn how to take a tracing of your garment without cutting it up or unpicking it. Jo will then show you how to make a reusable sewing pattern so you can make it over and over again in all the fabrics and colours you desire.
This workshop costs £120. To find out more and book your space, click here.

Beginner Weaving Day with a Rigid Heddle Loom at Clothkits
2026-06-13 10:00 - 16:30
Rigid heddle looms are a fantastic entry point into the world of weaving textiles. They are simplified versions of classic large looms and allow you to weave a length of cloth. Once you have mastered the basics, weaving with wool and the world of textile weaving is at your fingertips!
This day is aimed at beginners. Using pre-warped Ashford rigid heddle weaving looms, we will learn the basic principles of weaving so that you come away knowing your warp from your weft and your pick from your sett!
You will weave a sample piece during the day, which depending on your progress could be a short table runner or a scarf. Charlotte will teach you the techniques needed to start and finish off the piece of weaving which we will remove from the loom at the end of the day. You will come away with your woven piece and an instruction booklet to enable you to weave more. Charlotte will also be able to guide you on the types of loom on which you may wish to further your weaving.
About your Teacher:
Charlotte from A Nest of Gentle Makers has had a passion for textiles and making since childhood. She is a keen believer in mending and derives great satisfaction from continuing the life of a favourite jumper or cardigan. She is a free spirit (messy) darner so is thrilled with the new interest in visible mending rather than aiming for an invisible repair!
Class Size: Maximum class size of 9.
Skills: This course is for total beginners.
Materials: All materials including looms, tools and wool will be provided
Course Duration: Full Day
Venue: The workshop is held in our modern and vibrant studio at the Clothkits shop. We are located in central Chichester, about a 10 minute walk from the train and bus station. The closest car park is The Cattle Market.
This workshop costs £120. To find out more and book your space click here.
To see more workshops at Clothkits, click here.
