Meet Andrew; our new sewing teacher at Creative Thread Studio

Meet Andrew, our new sewing teacher here at Creative Thread Studio

We’re delighted to introduce Andrew, our newest sewing tutor here at Creative Thread Studio. With a calm, encouraging approach and a passion for machine sewing, dressmaking and craft sewing, Andrew has quickly become a favourite among our students.

Andrew started a few weeks ago, teaching our beginners machine sewing classes, created especially for those who are completely new to using a sewing machine and those who need a refresher because their machine has been tucked awaay in a cupboard! His sessions start with the essentials—helping students understand their own machines, from correct threading and bobbin winding to adjusting tension and selecting the right stitch settings. By demystifying these fundamentals, he ensures everyone feels confident before they even begin stitching.

Everyone then put their new skills into practice by making a lined tote bag. This carefully chosen project introduces key techniques such as seam allowance, straight stitching, pinning, pressing, making handles and constructing a simple lining. It’s the perfect first make—practical, achievable, and a great confidence boost for beginners getting to grips with their machine. Here are a couple of examples made on Andrew first class with us, we think they look great.

Building on this strong foundation, Andrew is now teaching an improvers sewing course for those ready to expand their skills. This course introduces more advanced techniques and finishes, with a focus on building confidence and growing machine sewing skills.
Projects include decorative bunting (perfect for practising consistent seam allowances and turning points), structured fabric storage boxes (exploring interfacing and shaping), a zipped purse (introducing zip insertion and topstitching), and a bias piped cushion, where students learn how to make and handle bias binding and create a professional piped edge.
Throughout each class, Andrew will guide you through cutting skills, fabric handling to pressing as you go—helping you achieve results they can be proud of.

These lovely fabrics can be found on our website.

Andrew’s supportive, step-by-step teaching style makes even more technical skills feel accessible. Whether you’re learning how to sew your first seam or refining your finishing techniques, his classes are a fantastic place to develop your sewing confidence and creativity.

We’re so pleased to have Andrew as part of the Creative Thread Studio team and look forward to seeing you continue to grow—one stitch at a time.

Andrew in his own words

Hi, I’m Andrew, and I fell completely in love with sewing after watching the first series of The Great British Sewing Bee – I was absolutely hooked!
Like many of you might have experienced, I tried teaching myself through online sewing videos, but quickly realised I needed proper guidance. So I took some short courses and eventually went on to college to get my qualifications. These days, sewing is part of my daily life, and I’ve also picked up knitting and crochet along the way (though sewing will always be my first love!).
What I enjoy most is sharing this passion with others and watching students discover their own creativity. There’s nothing quite like seeing someone’s skills and confidence blossom as they progress.
Before becoming a sewing tutor nearly 15 years ago, I worked in nursing – so I bring that same caring, patient approach to teaching. I studied at Manchester and Burnley College, and I absolutely love working with adult learners at every level. Whether you’re picking up a needle and thread for the very first time, or you’re an experienced sewist looking to refresh your skills or learn something new, I’m here to support you.
I can guide you through a wide range of techniques including pattern drafting, draping on the stand, embroidery, machine and hand sewing, quilting and patchwork, soft furnishings, garment construction, bag making, alterations, and upcycling. Whatever your sewing goals are, I’m excited to help you achieve them! I’m very much looking forward to meeting you and working with the team at Creative Thread Studio”.

Look out for future classes on alterations, dressmaking for beginners and more, make sure you join our mailing list to get the lastest class listings, link to  joining our mailing list is also at the bottom of this article.