Design and create your own one- or two-piece lined swimsuit or leotard.

In this two-day workshop you will learn how to sew a 1- or 2-piece swimwear with lining using domestic sewing machine and overlocker.

The pattern for the swimwear will be provided; however, you will learn how to adapt the patterns to simple adaptations.

This class is not suitable for beginners: Ages 16 and up, with intermediate to advance sewing skills.

Materials needed

1 meter swimwear fabric (2 way stretch only), 1 meter 2 way stretch lining, 3 meter clear or rubber elastic, Fabric scissors or roll cutter (please bring a cutting matt)

We have a limited range of swimwear fabric to purchase for $10m on the day, however you are welcome to pop in to have a look - lining will need to be purchased separately.

Thread to sew recommended is WOOLY NYLON however can use polyester as well

Optional Materials

Ball point pins or craft clips, mechanical pencil eraser, twin needle, jersey needles/pin, buckles or rings if needed for your design

Where to buy materials

GJs Discount Fabrics - https://www.gjsdiscountfabrics.com.au/ specialising in dance, costumer, patchwork and craft

Rathdowne Fabrics - https://rathdownefabrics.com.au/ Stocks a huge variety of reclaimed fabric in bulk lengths

Shine Trimmings and Fabrics - https://shinetrimmingsfabrics.com.au/ Dance, costumer and wooly nylon thread.

Bood Designs - https://boodesigns.com.au Spandex and stretch dedicated store: great for prints, solid colour and linings.

The Fabric Store - https://thefabricstoreonline.com/ stocks liberty swim fabrics

Drapers - https://drapersfabrics.com/ fabrics as well as chlorine and salt resistant nickel fasteners and elastics

Spoonflower - https://www.spoonflower.com A UK Based brand that allows you to design your own fabrics. Or choose from a huge selection of end use prints, in your preferred fabric types including Sport Lycra.

Missy Rose https://missyrose.com.au Based in Queensland, online custom print fabric store

Bali Swim - https://baliswim.com for those wanting to start their own swimwear business, Bali Swim can help with design, samples, fabric and production

Can I bring my own sewing machine or overlocker?

We have enough machines for everyone but if you would like to learn on your own machine you are welcome to bring it along.

What do I need to bring?

Second Stitch has plenty to share however you are also welcomed to bring your own equipment such as sewing machine/overlocker, fabric scissors, paper scissors, pins, snips, tape measure, pens, pencils etc.

For 6-hour classes a 30min lunch break is included. There are plenty of places to purchase lunch, or you’re welcome to pack a lunch and store in our fridge.

What to wear

Comfortable clothing and shoes. Long hair should be tied up.

About the Trainer

Deepa Richmond is a certified TCF Textile and clothing trainer, she has been teaching across Melbourne’s most prestigious Fashion Schools since 2010, joining the team at Second Stitch in 2019

As a freelance pattern and design consultant she has worked with many Melbourne brands as well as her own. Deepa is extremely passionate about teaching and enjoys going the extra mile for inquisitive students.

Location and Parking

Second Stitch is in the heart of Coburg, with plenty of access to local cafes and supermarkets.

Entry during opening hours is via 1/377 Sydney Road or through our rear entry, we are above Vinnies Fruit Shop and near the corner of Monroe St

Parking: 3-hour parking in the Woolworths Carpark directly behind us, or all-day parking beneath the Upfield train line, entry via Victoria St.

Getting there

We are on the number 19 tram line, 512 bus via Monroe St, or 513, 527 561, and 903 to Bell Street.

Directly behind us you’ll find Coburg Station on the Upfield line.

About us

Second Stitch is a NFT founded by VICSEG New Futures in 2017.

As a social enterprise we aim to empower women, from diverse backgrounds, economically and socially through textiles.

Built on the foundation of supporting women and helping them build connections through our studio, over the last 4 years we have made 20,000+ products, collaborated with industry leaders as well as directly employing our students for our range of services.

We continue to foster a studio of education, empowerment, and economy. We believe local and sustainably made productions can create an ecosystem that supports women.

Our Founders

VICSEG New Futures, a not-for-profit organisation offering a range of services for migrants, asylum seeker and refugee communities in Victoria. We believe diverse cultural perspectives strengthen our community, which is why we are on a mission to build a more inclusive Australia.