The basics of Sewing

What Can You Expect from This 20-Week Sewing Course? Our course is divided into four structured learning phases:

Phase 1: Basic Sewing Techniques & Exploration In this phase, you’ll learn the essential foundations of sewing. You’ll become familiar with the parts and functions of a sewing machine, practice various stitches, and learn safe working methods. You’ll explore the properties of different fabrics and practice basic seams such as the straight seam, French seam, and flat-felled seam. By creating simple projects like a zippered cushion cover and a tote bag, you’ll develop control, insight, and a feel for textiles and construction.

Phase 2: Garment Construction & Technique Refinement Now you’ll lay the foundation for actual clothing production. You’ll learn how to adjust patterns to your own measurements, select fabrics, and process them according to the technical requirements of the design. You’ll create your first garments: an A-line skirt, a stretch top, and a blouse. You’ll develop skills such as inserting sleeves, pockets, buttonholes, and elastic. You’ll also learn to work with stretch fabrics and jersey, which require precision and the right stitches and needles.

Phase 3: Advanced Techniques & Larger Projects In this phase, you’ll dive deeper into more complex garments and advanced techniques. You’ll create custom-fit trousers, complete with waistband, zipper, and fit adjustments. You’ll also learn how to neatly integrate linings into garments and how to work with delicate materials such as silk and satin. You’ll explore decorative finishes such as pleats, bias tape, and ruffles to give your work a polished and personal touch.

Phase 4: Personal Design & Finishing Now it’s time to apply everything you’ve learned in an independent final project. You’ll design a garment of your choice, draft the pattern yourself, and select the right fabrics. You’ll work independently to sew, finish, and perfect your creation. In the final weeks, you’ll complete your project with professional styling and present your design during a final showcase, including a photoshoot and certificate ceremony. This will mark the beginning of your portfolio as a maker or aspiring dressmaker.

EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM: Private education system

INSTRUCTORS: Lessons taught by top fashion and business professionals from the industry

EINDHOVEN

• Class Day: Once a week on Monday evening

• Class Time: 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM

UTRECHT

• Class Day: Once a week on Tuesday evening

• Class Time: 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM

ANTWERP

• Class Day: Once a week on Tuesday evening

• Class Time: 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM

LANGUAGE: English

DURATION: 20 weeks (including school holidays)

START DATES:

• Eindhoven: September 1, 2025

• Utrecht: September 2, 2025

• Antwerp: September 2, 2025

REQUIREMENTS: After registration, you’ll receive a detailed list of required materials, including handy links to purchase everything easily. Please account for additional material costs of approximately €270.

PHOTO & VIDEO STUDIO & ATELIER: As a BFA student, you can use our professional photo & video studio and atelier free of charge. After completing the course, you’ll receive a 50% discount on studio use for one additional year.

STUDY LOAD: 3 class hours per week

CERTIFICATE: 100% certificate guarantee according to the Business Fashion Academy protocol.

WHO IS THIS COURSE FOR?

Whether you're an absolute beginner or already have some sewing experience, this course is designed to take everyone to the next level.

You’ll build a solid technical foundation and learn how to turn your creative ideas into professionally finished garments.

INVESTMENT COSTS:

The total investment for the course is €1,900.

Payment in 1, 2, or 3 installments is possible.

A one-time registration and administration fee of €75 applies.

What Will You Be Able to Do After This 20-Week Sewing Course?

After completing this 20-week program, you will be able to independently create clothing and accessories—from concept to final finish. You’ll master both the technical skills and creative processes needed to transform your ideas into wearable fashion. You will have worked with a wide range of fabrics and techniques and will be familiar with the entire process from pattern to presentation.

Specifically, after this course you’ll be able to:

• Use a sewing machine both technically and creatively You’ll know how to operate a sewing machine safely and precisely, understand its components, basic stitches, and maintenance, and apply various stitches to different types of fabric.

• Read, adjust, and use patterns for your own size You’ll be able to read and interpret sewing patterns, adjust them to fit your measurements, transfer them to fabric, and add markings for accurate construction.

• Work with various fabrics and seam types You’ll understand woven and knitted fabrics, stretch, and delicate materials like silk and satin. You’ll be able to sew straight seams, French seams, flat-felled seams, and apply professional finishing techniques.

• Create garments from start to finish You will have made your own A-line skirt, blouse or top, and trousers, including inserting zippers, buttonholes, sleeves, waistbands, and pockets.

• Handle stretch fabrics and special techniques You’ll know how to work with jersey, stretch materials, and a twin needle. You’ll also have experience with sewing linings, working with delicate fabrics, and adding decorative details such as pleats and ruffles.

• Realize your own design You will have learned how to design a garment, draft a pattern, select appropriate fabrics, and transform your design into a wearable result.

• Present your work like a professional Your final project will be presented in a professional setting, including a photoshoot and certificate ceremony. This marks the beginning of your portfolio, which you can use for further development, sales, or entry into advanced programs.

• Build confidence in creating independently You’ll have a strong foundation in both the technical and creative sides of sewing. You’ll feel confident starting your own projects, using your creativity, and delivering high-quality work.

As a BFA Student, You Become Part of Our Fashion & Business Community

At Business Fashion Academy, you don’t just take a course—you become part of a vibrant and inspiring fashion & business network.

As a student, you’ll gain access to:

• BFA Forward Event Held several times a year, this exclusive event features top guest speakers from the fashion and business industries, such as Patta, Flâneur, ELLE, Ronald van der Kemp, and Filling Pieces. You'll not only learn directly from leading professionals but also develop essential networking skills and connections.

• BFA x Career Connect During and after your studies, we actively connect you with the business world—so you can start building your career while you're still in school.

• BFA x Collabs During and after your studies, you'll have opportunities to collaborate with renowned companies, including De Bijenkorf.