Classes and Events

Workshops, classes and community sessions at Skygarden Fabrics 

Book a spot, join a term, or hire a space.

1/557 Magill Road, Magill SA 5072

We're at the eastern end of the carpark. Come in the front door and walk straight in, the studio is on the left.

Parking

The carpark can get busy when gym classes are on. If you need a hand unloading, pull up right outside the shop to unload, then park. Street parking is close by too.

Public transport

The 106 bus runs along Magill Road to the city, about every 15 minutes on weekdays. Nearest stop is Stop 18, Magill Rd.

Do I need experience for a class?

It depends on the class. Every listing has a "Skill Level" indicator showing what experience it's aimed at, so you can check before you book. We cater for all levels, from complete beginners through to confident sewists.

Can I come on my own?

Absolutely, most people do. Plus you might meet your new sewing bestie.

What should I bring to class?

Every listing includes what's provided and what to bring, since it varies by class. Some classes have everything provided, others need you to bring your own kit. Sewing Club is bring-your-own, everything. Machine hire is always available if you need it.

What if I'm running late?

No problem, just come on in and join when you can.

What if I can't make it to my class?

Our classes are small, so every spot matters. More than 14 days before your class, you can make a free change or get a 90% refund. Within 14 days, your booking is final, no changes, refunds, or transfers. Feel free to send someone else in your place though. If there's an exceptional circumstance, please get in touch.

What if Skygarden cancels a class?

You'll get a full refund or a transfer to another class, whichever you'd prefer.

Will I finish my project in class?

For project and garment classes, yes, you'll generally finish the item in the session. Some more complex projects are finish-at-home, and multi-week projects might come with a bit of homework between sessions. This question doesn't apply to classes that aren't built around a specific project.

Can I bring my child?

Younger participants need to be able to work independently through the class, and require their own booking. Got a babe in arms and want to bring them to your class? Email us first so we can check it's a good fit.

Can I bring my own sewing machine?

Yes, and it's encouraged, especially if you want to learn on your own machine. We also have a range of hire machines representing different entry points into sewing machines, so if you're in the market, it's a great way to see what might suit you.

Do I get a discount on fabric or notions for a class?

Yes, if you're buying fabric or notions for your class project, you'll get a discount at the till.

Do you offer gift vouchers for classes?

Yes. Gift vouchers come in set denominations. If you're after a voucher for a specific class, or you'd like to book on someone else's behalf, get in touch.

What if a class is full?

Add yourself to the waitlist. If a spot opens up, we'll be in touch.

Accessibility

The studio is on the ground floor, though the space is small. If you have any accessibility needs, get in touch before you book so we can talk through what will work for you.

Can I bring a support person?

Always yes. If they'd like to participate too, they'll need their own booking.

Is there parking for accessibility needs?

Yes, there's an accessible car park in the lot, plus a park right out the front of the shop. If you need parking immediately adjacent, let us know and we'll try to make sure something suitable is available.

Is there a toilet on site?

Yes, two toilets: one on the ground floor behind the till, and one upstairs.

Is there a kitchen I can use?

Yes, there's a shared kitchen with tea and coffee, a microwave, a toastie machine, and plates and crockery for anything you bring in.

Do you offer private or group bookings?

Yes. We can hold classes for small groups at a variety of skill levels, whether that's a party, an event, team building, or anything else. Get in touch to discuss.

What happens if I've never sewn before?

That's perfect, we have classes for all levels. If you've never sewn at all, start with Get Threaded. Once you're keen to progress, move on to Get Sewing. From there, we've got classes and Studio+ sessions to keep you going.

Do you offer make-up sessions if I miss a week?

For a 5-week block, you get one free cancellation with rebook. Otherwise, our standard cancellation policy applies. We don't repeat class content, so a missed session for a specific project won't be run again.

Get Sewing
Learn to Sew Beginner (Get Threaded graduates or equivalent)

Get Sewing

Want to make your first garment, or get back into it? This is the class.

If you're ready to make your first garment, already know the basics, or want to return to sewing after a break, this is the class for you. This three week course is a natural progression from the Get Threaded course, and designed to get you excited about garment sewing. We'll start with a warm up project to get us stitching, then choose between either a top or bottoms, the Trigg Shorts by Elbe Textiles, or the Craft Studio Tee by Matchy Matchy Sewing Club.

Suits Get Threaded graduates, or anyone with basic machine confidence, comfortable threading a machine and sewing a straight seam on your own.
Claire
Your own sewing machine, if you want to use yours. Please contact us first to make sure it's suitable for the class. No machine? Hire one from us. Fabric for your chosen garment (amount confirmed on booking), purchased and pre-washed at least a few days before class. Want your pattern printed rather than working from a digital file? We can print it for you, $7 per A0 sheet.
All materials for the Bento Bag, the digital Trigg Shorts or Craft Studio Tee pattern, and full instruction. Machine hire available on request.
Upcoming dates
Tue 29 Sep
10:00 AM — 1:00 PM
6 spots
Tue 6 Oct
10:00 AM — 1:00 PM
6 spots
Tue 13 Oct
10:00 AM — 1:00 PM
6 spots
Studio+
Tuition Confident beginner and up

Studio+

Sewing garments to last takes time and skill. Set aside some time to sew with expert guidance, alongside people who get it.

Bring whatever you're working on. Half finished, barely started, or stuck on one step, it doesn't matter. Sometimes the hardest part is just setting aside the time, so come for that alone if you need to. We're there for the whole session to help however you need it, and you'll be sewing alongside other people doing the same thing.

Comfortable using a machine on your own and familiar with general sewing techniques. Not a fit for absolute beginners, sign up for Get Threaded and Get Sewing to Get Going!
Claire
Your own sewing machine. Your project and fabric. Your pattern, printed or as a PDF on a device. Basic kit: pins, scissors, unpicker, tape measure, machine feet you need. No machine? Hire one for $15.
Studio time for the full session, and help whenever you need it.
Recurring class
Upcoming dates
Tue 29 Sep
6:30 PM — 8:30 PM
6 spots
Thu 1 Oct
10:00 AM — 1:00 PM
6 spots
Tue 6 Oct
6:30 PM — 8:30 PM
6 spots
Thu 8 Oct
10:00 AM — 1:00 PM
6 spots
Tue 13 Oct
6:30 PM — 8:30 PM
6 spots
Thu 15 Oct
10:00 AM — 1:00 PM
6 spots
Eccles Cardigan
Sew Beyond, Garment Class Intermediate

Eccles Cardigan

Try out zero-waste sewing with this cardi by Empty Hanger Patterns, perfect for spring.

Over three sessions, sew the Eccles Cardigan, a zero-waste pattern drafted straight onto your fabric. Easy fit, crew neck, long or 3/4 sleeves.

Uses iron-on interfacing, curved seams, bias binding, and buttons or snaps. Drafting the pattern straight onto your fabric is a technique worth practising even if you've sewn plenty before.
Claire
Your own sewing machine. Fabric with moderate stretch, purchased and pre-washed at least a few days before class, or add a fabric option at checkout (merino, lightweight modal/sweatshirting, mid-weight modal, or cotton waffle jersey/rib). 5-8 buttons or snaps. Matching thread and a stretch or ballpoint needle.
The pattern by Empty Hanger Patterns, bias binding, and fusible interfacing, and full instruction. Fabric add-ons available separately.
Upcoming dates
Wed 30 Sep
2:00 PM — 5:00 PM
5 spots
Wed 7 Oct
2:00 PM — 5:00 PM
5 spots
Wed 14 Oct
2:00 PM — 5:00 PM
5 spots
Skygarden Sewing Club
Social Club All levels

Skygarden Sewing Club

Bring your project. Find your people.

The Skygarden Sewing Club is a space to connect with others through sewing. Bring your sewing project and spend a few hours with like minded sewing enthusiasts. Support each other and work on something ongoing, plan your next project, or just connect, do as much or as little as you like.

Your own sewing machine. Your project, fabric, pattern, and basic kit. No machine? Hire one for $15.
Studio time for the session, plus tea and coffee.
Recurring class
Upcoming dates
Thu 1 Oct
4:00 PM — 6:30 PM
5 spots
Fri 2 Oct
10:30 AM — 1:00 PM
8 spots
Thu 8 Oct
5:00 PM — 7:30 PM
7 spots
Fri 9 Oct
10:30 AM — 1:00 PM
8 spots
Thu 15 Oct
5:00 PM — 7:30 PM
7 spots
Fri 16 Oct
10:30 AM — 1:00 PM
8 spots
Tie Tee
Garment Class Confident beginner

Tie Tee

Sew the Tie Tee by TheSewSew, a versatile top that can be worn several ways.

In one session, sew the Tie Tee, a low-waste, open-back blouse built from a simple pattern block.

This session has simple construction, but you'll practice lots of bias.
Claire
Your own sewing machine. Fabric, purchased and pre-washed at least a few days before class. Bias already made for the ties, or purchase some in store before class. Matching thread and basic sewing kit. No machine? Hire one for $15/session.
The Tie Tee pattern by TheSewSew, and full instruction.
Upcoming dates
Sat 10 Oct
9:30 AM — 1:00 PM
5 spots
Clo Bias Skirt
Garment Class Confident beginner

Clo Bias Skirt

Want to tackle a bias cut? Make this classic, versatile skirt by Soften Studio.

Over two sessions, you'll cut and sew the Clo Bias Skirt, an A-line shape with an elasticated, drawstring waist. Choose full or midi length. Best in a lightweight fabric with drape, linen or cotton lawn work well.

The bias cut needs a bit more care than a straight-grain project, so this suits sewers who've already got some machine confidence.
Claire
Your own sewing machine. Fabric (linen or cotton lawn, amount confirmed on booking), purchased and pre-washed at least a few days before class. Matching thread and basic sewing kit. No machine? Hire one for $15/session.
The Clo Bias Skirt pattern, fabric cutting guidance, and full instruction.
Upcoming dates
Fri 16 Oct
1:00 PM — 4:00 PM
4 spots
Fri 23 Oct
1:00 PM — 4:00 PM
4 spots
Garment Carbon Copy
Make and Mend Intermediate 2 spots left

Garment Carbon Copy

Turn a garment you love into a pattern so you can make it again.

In one session, copy a favourite garment into a paper pattern, no need to unpick it. Take accurate measurements, add seam allowance, and figure out the construction process that was used, and what needs to be added to make a flat pattern. Leave with a finished pattern to cut and sew at home.

You don't need drafting experience, but you should be comfortable understanding a garment's seams and darts.
Claire
One simple garment to copy, confirmed before class. Avoid anything with draping, pleats, or many panels. A pencil and eraser. A ruler if you have one, a couple are available to share otherwise. Pattern paper provided.
Pattern paper, full instruction.
Upcoming dates
Sat 17 Oct
10:00 AM — 1:00 PM
2 left
Bonbons
Sew and Go Beginner

Bonbons

Learn how to make these sustainable, reusable fabric Christmas crackers by Waves & Wild.

Over two sessions, sew a set of reusable fabric Christmas crackers. Fillable, secured closed, and each one pulls apart to reveal what's inside.

Straight seams only, with a few fiddly bits. A great first project.
Claire
Your own sewing machine. Fabric, purchased and pre-washed at least a few days before class. A cardboard tube, roughly 10cm long, wider if you want to fill it with treats. Matching thread and basic sewing kit. No machine? Hire one for $15/session.
Velcro, cotton tape, and full instruction.
Upcoming dates
Tue 20 Oct
3:00 PM — 6:00 PM
6 spots
Tue 27 Oct
3:00 PM — 6:00 PM
6 spots
Chloe Dress or Top
Garment Class Confident beginner

Chloe Dress or Top

Choose your own adventure with the Silversaga Patterns Chloe design: select a top or dress, and sleeves or sleeveless.

Over three sessions, sew the Chloe Dress & Top, a floaty, romantic a-line shape with plenty of ease through the waist and hips. Adjustable neckline tie, bias-bound armholes or sleeves, hidden inseam pockets. Choose top, mini, or midi length, sleeved or sleeveless, with an optional button placket.

Beginner-friendly for the simpler options. Increase the challenge if you want, with sleeves or the button placket.
Claire
Your own sewing machine. Fabric, purchased and pre-washed at least a few days before class. Notions needed for construction (confirmed by email before class). Matching thread and basic sewing kit. No machine? Hire one for $15/session.
The pattern by Silversaga Patterns, and full instruction.
Upcoming dates
Wed 21 Oct
2:00 PM — 5:00 PM
5 spots
Wed 28 Oct
2:00 PM — 5:00 PM
5 spots
Wed 4 Nov
2:00 PM — 5:00 PM
5 spots
Pogonip Pullover
Garment Class Confident beginner

Pogonip Pullover

A fashion-forward, sporty silhouette by Friday Pattern Company that works just as well as a summer layer as it does a winter warmer. Just choose the fabric that works for your season.

Over three sessions, sew the Pogonip, an unlined pullover with a sport collar, a snap or button front, plus elastic cuffs and hem. Welt pockets are optional, learn them, do your own thing, or skip. This versatile pattern can be sewn in mid to heavyweight linen or structured cotton for a summer layer, or corduroy, denim, sweatshirting, fleece, or quilted fabric for winter warmth, one silhouette that carries through the whole year.

Generally straightforward construction techniques aside from the welt pockets. These are optional if you'd prefer to keep it beginner friendly. This option may require some homework between sessions.
Claire
Your own sewing machine. Fabric, a mid to heavyweight woven (linen, structured cotton, corduroy, denim, quilted fabric) or a stable knit (sweatshirting, fleece, french terry, velour), purchased and pre-washed at least a few days before class. Notions needed for construction (confirmed by email before class). Matching thread and basic sewing kit. No machine? Hire one for $15/session.
The pattern by Friday Pattern Company, and full instruction.
Upcoming dates
Thu 22 Oct
2:00 PM — 5:00 PM
5 spots
Thu 29 Oct
2:00 PM — 5:00 PM
5 spots
Thu 5 Nov
2:00 PM — 5:00 PM
5 spots
I Want to Make Shorts Too
Garment Class BeginnerGet Threaded graduates

I Want to Make Shorts Too

Fun shorts are in, and yes, you can make a pair.

Over two sessions, sew the Trigg Shorts by Elbe Textiles, a pair of unisex shorts with an elasticated drawstring waistband, side pockets, and optional back patch pockets. Suitable for all body types.

You should be comfortable constructing basic seams.
Claire
Your own sewing machine. Fabric, purchased and pre-washed at least a few days before class. Waistband elastic. Matching thread and basic sewing kit. No machine? Hire one for $15/session.
The pattern, and full instruction.
Upcoming dates
Sat 24 Oct
10:00 AM — 1:00 PM
5 spots
Sat 31 Oct
10:00 AM — 1:00 PM
5 spots
Draft Your Own Wrap Skirt
Make and Mend Beginner

Draft Your Own Wrap Skirt

Draft a wrap skirt pattern to your own measurements.

In one session, draft a wrap skirt pattern to your own measurements. Calculate the wrap overlap, waist tie placement, and how to true up the pattern before cutting. Leave with a finished pattern ready to sew. Continue the course and sew your skirt at Skygarden with the Sew a Wrap Skirt Class booked separately, or its yours to make at home.

No sewing experience needed, this session is all paper and pencil. Patience helps more than sewing skill.
Claire
A pencil and eraser. A ruler if you have one, a couple are available to share otherwise. Pattern paper provided.
Pattern paper, full instruction.
Upcoming dates
Tue 3 Nov
3:00 PM — 6:00 PM
4 spots
Miro Top
Garment Class Beginners

Miro Top

Sew a clever, playful, layered look top by Sue-Ching Lascelles, with versatile waist tie options.

In one session, sew the Miro Top, a crossover top with grown-on sleeves and cuffs. No zips, no darts.

Get Sewing graduates or those who've sewn one or two projects before should feel comfortable with this, but expect to work at a steady pace. The neckline is finished with a bias facing.
Claire
Your own sewing machine. Fabric, purchased and pre-washed at least a few days before class. Bias for the neckline. Optional: pre-made bias in a contrast colour for the ties, if you'd rather not sew them from your fashion fabric. Matching thread and basic sewing kit. No machine? Hire one for $15/session.
The Miro Top pattern by Sue-Ching Lascelles, and full instruction.
Upcoming dates
Sat 7 Nov
9:30 AM — 1:00 PM
5 spots
Sew a Wrap Skirt
Garment Class Beginner

Sew a Wrap Skirt

Sew your own drafted skirt, or skip straight to sewing from a pattern.

Over two sessions, sew a wrap skirt from your own draft (from Draft Your Own Wrap Skirt) or from a purchased pattern. A wrap adapts to fluctuations in your body over time, and different fabrics give it a completely different feel, from crisp and structured to soft and fluid.

Straightforward construction techniques, but expect to work at a reasonable pace. Best if you've made a couple of projects before, or completed Get Sewing.
Claire
Fabric, purchased and pre-washed at least a few days before class. Your own draft, or purchase the pattern ($15) before class. Matching thread and basic sewing kit. No machine? Hire one for $15/session.
Full instruction. Pattern purchase available separately.
Upcoming dates
Tue 10 Nov
3:00 PM — 6:00 PM
4 spots
Tue 17 Nov
3:00 PM — 6:00 PM
4 spots
Page Dress
Garment Class Intermediate

Page Dress

A relaxed, easy-to-wear silhouette by Elbe Textiles with optional pleats to add interest and texture.

Over three sessions, sew the Page Dress, an easy fit shift dress with options. Add pleats for texture and interest, a button front, or side splits. An optional drawstring at the waist lets you cinch it in, or leave it out for a looser, architectural shape. Bias-bound neckline and armholes, plus in-seam pockets.

Choose the plain shift view to keep things simpler, or take on the tucked bodice and button placket for more of a challenge. This class may require some homework between sessions.
Claire
Your own sewing machine. Fabric, a lightweight woven (cotton, lightweight linen, silk noil, hemp, cotton voile), best for drape and, if you're adding pleats, easier to work with too. Purchased and pre-washed at least a few days before class. Notions needed for construction (confirmed by email before class). Matching thread and basic sewing kit. No machine? Hire one for $15/session.
The pattern by Elbe Textiles, and full instruction.
Upcoming dates
Wed 11 Nov
2:00 PM — 5:00 PM
5 spots
Wed 18 Nov
2:00 PM — 5:00 PM
5 spots
Wed 25 Nov
2:00 PM — 5:00 PM
5 spots
Bucket Hat
Garment Class Confident beginner

Bucket Hat

A sun hat worth making, for yourself or as a gift.

Over two sessions, sew a fun bucket hat that gives genuine sun protection. Unisex, and a good project for building confidence with structured wovens.

Expect lots of small seams, accuracy matters more in this project.
Claire
Your own sewing machine. Fabric, a structured woven like denim, canvas, or cotton drill, purchased and pre-washed at least a few days before class. Interfacing as required. Matching thread and basic sewing kit. No machine? Hire one for $15/session.
The pattern, and full instruction.
Upcoming dates
Sat 14 Nov
10:00 AM — 1:00 PM
5 spots
Sat 21 Nov
10:00 AM — 1:00 PM
5 spots
Get Threaded
Learn to Sew Absolute beginner

Get Threaded

Want to learn to use a sewing machine? Start here.

Over two weeks, you'll learn to use a sewing machine, starting from the very beginning: threading it, winding a bobbin, stitching, checking tension, securing seams, and much more. By the end, you'll have completed two functional sewing projects and be ready to move onto making your first garment.

No experience needed, this is where you start.
Claire
Your own sewing machine, if you have one. Contact us first to make sure it's suitable for the class. No machine? Hire one from us.
All materials and full instruction. Machine hire available on request.
Upcoming dates
Tue 24 Nov
10:00 AM — 1:00 PM
5 spots
Tue 1 Dec
10:00 AM — 1:00 PM
5 spots
Fish Drawstring Bag
Sew and Go Beginner

Fish Drawstring Bag

Dip your toes into sewing with this all-inclusive class and construct a fishy drawstring bag.

In one session, sew a fish-shaped drawstring bag from start to finish. No experience necessary, everything's provided.

Straightforward from start to finish, with optional add-ons if you want more of a challenge.
Claire
Nothing, everything's provided, though if you know how and would like to use your own machine, you're welcome to.
All inclusive, we'll provide everything: fabric, drawstring cord, and full instruction.
Upcoming dates
Sat 28 Nov
9:30 AM — 1:00 PM
6 spots