Zero Waste Clothing

Perfect for beginners and intermediate makers with basic sewing machine skills, this zero waste clothing sewing workshop introduces the principles of zero-waste fashion through practical garment making.

With Kathleen, you’ll explore how clothing can be designed to use fabric more efficiently, reducing textile waste while still creating comfortable, wearable pieces. The session includes a short introduction to zero-waste approaches in both historical dressmaking traditions and contemporary fashion design, looking at how makers past and present have worked creatively within the full width of fabric.

You’ll be guided through choosing and adapting a simple zero-waste pattern such as trousers, skirt or top, learning techniques for planning layouts, cutting efficiently, and constructing garments with minimal fabric waste. Depending on your experience level and the fabric you bring, you’ll make either a loose-fitting top or a pair of lounge-style trousers.

By the end of the workshop, you’ll leave with a finished handmade garment, a deeper understanding of sustainable sewing practices, and ideas for incorporating zero-waste techniques into future projects.

COMPLETELY NEW TO SEWING?

As the sewing in this class is straightforward, it could work well for new sewists. For those that have never sewn before, please book a sewing machine intro, for £10,  before the class from 9-10am by clicking on this link

What to bring:

• -Fabric - woven (non stretch) fabric such as cotton or linen
• Fabric requirements will depend on the garment chosen and the size of the person making it. Recommended fabric amounts:

* Top: 1.2m – 1.5m
* Tiered skirt: 2m – 2.4m
* Trousers: 1.5m – 2m, depending on hip measurement and leg length

• Basic sewing kit
• Sewing machine if you wish, though you are welcome to use one of ours

About the tutor:
Kathleen McKee is an experienced costume maker and pattern cutter with over twenty years’ professional practice in London. Her work spans theatre, film, and television, including projects for major institutions such as the Royal Opera House.
Alongside her industry work, Kathleen has spent much of her career teaching in higher education, sharing her extensive technical knowledge with emerging designers and makers.
Kathleen currently works at Butterwalk in Totnes, where she makes sustainable clothing with a focus on quality, longevity, and responsible production. She is passionate about passing on practical skills and supporting thoughtful, mindful making.
Kathleen is delighted to be offering a selection of sewing workshops at Go Deer, providing students with the opportunity to learn professional techniques in a friendly and supportive environment.