INTERMEDIATE to ADVANCED BYO CLASS
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INTERMEDIATE TO ADVANCED – BYO SEWING INTENSIVE
4 Hour & 6.5 Hour Guided Studio Sessions
Guided by industry professionals Megan McKee-Griffith and Sheena Lee, both with extensive garment construction and expert pattern-making experience.
This focused, high-level sewing session is designed to elevate your skills, refine your technique, and give you professional insight into your project — all within the warm, supportive Usefulbox studio community.
Perfect for intermediate to advanced sewists who want expert fitting guidance, pattern support, or help tackling a complex garment — while sewing alongside like-minded makers.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS COURSE
• Small, premium intensive (4–5 students only)
• Extended studio time for real, measurable progress
• Advanced fitting and construction guidance
• Pattern instructions broken down clearly and logically
• Industry-level insight into garment construction
• Calm, focused, encouraging sewing environment
You’ll sew with others who love making just as much as you do — sharing ideas, learning together, and celebrating progress.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
• Professional pattern interpretation
• Fit assessment and adjustment techniques
• Garment construction refinement
• Advanced sewing techniques explained clearly
• How to approach complex instructions with confidence
• Independent problem-solving skills
You’ll leave not just with progress on your garment — but with stronger technical understanding and greater confidence in your own ability.
SKILL LEVEL --->
INTERMEDIATE
• Confident threading and operating your sewing machine
• Comfortable sewing with seam allowances •
Experience constructing garments
• Ready to refine fit and elevate technique
ADVANCED
• Strong understanding of garment construction
• Confident working independently
• Looking to master advanced techniques and professional finishes
CLASS FORMAT
• 4 hour or 6.5 hour intensive sessions
• 4–5 students per class
• High cutting tables for tracing, measuring and cutting
• Personalised technical and fitting support
• A warm, collaborative studio atmosphere
This is focused sewing time — but never intimidating. You’re supported by experts and surrounded by a community that genuinely wants you to succeed.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- Use of studio machines - Bernina 335 or Brother A80
- 4 or 6.5 hours of expert tuition
- Individualised technical guidance
- Professional fitting insight
- Use of studio cutting tables and workspace
WHAT TO BRING
• Your chosen pattern and fabric
• Your fabric scissors and sewing kit
OPTIONAL: Bring your own sewing machine (including power cords and foot pedal).
Studio machines are available — students may use the Brother A80 or Bernina 335.
PRICING
4 hour session — $130
6.5 hour session — $180
READY TO BOOK?
Choose your preferred date below.
Spaces are strictly limited to 4–5 students per session to ensure personalised, high-level support — and a relaxed, enjoyable experience.
SESSION TIMES
Thursday — 4 hours
Friday — 6.5 hours
Saturday — 4 hours or 6.5 hours
Sunday — 6.5 hours
(See individual dates when booking.)
Details
You will learn
- You will learn valuable fitting adjustment skills
- You can use the high cutting tables to trace/measure your pattern and then cut out your fabric.
- We will dissect your pattern and look at the jargon in the instructions
You will get
- Expert tuition with only 4-5 students in the class
- A fun and engaging atmosphere
Appropriate for
Skill level: You will need to know how to thread and run your sewing machine and have a good grasp of sewing with seam allowances and the construction of a garment.
Preparation
What to bring
- The pattern and fabric you want to work on. Please send me an email with the project you want to work on and tell me what level you are at so that we can get an idea of what everyone will bring
- Your machine along with all it's power cords and the foot pedal -- If you’d prefer not to bring your own, we do have 4 x Brother machines available for use on a first come first served basis!
- Your fabric scissors and sewing kit
What to wear
Comfy. If you will be fitting your garment, you may like to wear leggings and tight shirt.
Your Teacher
MEGAN McKEE-GRIFFITH
Megan McKee-Griffith is our much-loved Intermediate to Advanced teacher and a favourite among students for her warmth, clarity and incredible depth of knowledge. Having studied at the illustrious East Sydney TAFE, Megan brings over 30 years of experience in the fashion industry as a pattern maker.
Alongside teaching, she works with a highly regarded fashion designer, continuing her hands-on industry practice. Megan is passionate about achieving the right fit for every body shape and loves sharing her expertise with students — from refining fit to incorporating industry tips and tricks that elevate garments to a beautifully professional finish. She also brings a deep understanding of fabric selection and how it works hand-in-hand with pattern choice.
Above all, Megan genuinely enjoys sewing alongside her students, creating a focused, encouraging and inspiring space to grow skills and confidence.
SHEENA LEE
Sheena’s love of fabric began early, inspired by the colour and creativity around her at home. Although her mother’s sewing machine sat mostly untouched, curiosity got the better of her — and she taught herself to sew, discovering the joy of making her own clothes.
She still remembers ordering her very first skirt pattern from a small ad in the Sydney Morning Herald. From that moment on, there was no turning back. Over the past 40+ years, she has built a rich and varied career in the clothing industry.
Sheena has worked across every corner of fashion — from the cutting room floor to design, patternmaking, sewing, made-to-measure bridal gowns and sales. She studied Fashion Design at RMIT in Melbourne and recently completed her Certificate IV in Training and Assessment. She has taught both computer and manual patternmaking at Ultimo TAFE, as well as sewing at Macquarie Community College.
In a world of fast fashion and disposable clothing, Sheena finds deep satisfaction in helping others create garments that are thoughtfully made, beautifully finished and perfectly fitted. She has a particular love of well-tailored pieces and classic silhouettes — timeless styles that never go out of fashion.
Organized by
Usefulbox Sewing School
606 reviewsSewing classes for adults in Marrickville. Join us to begin your sewing journey or continue learning.
Cancellations & Refunds
If the organiser cancels the class:
You are entitled to a full refund.
If you can't attend the class:
You’re welcome to send someone in your place.
OR
- A refund can be requested 15 days before class starts. Free of charge.
- A transfer can be requested 2 days before the class starts. An admin fee of AU$25.00 applies.
- A credit note can be requested 5 days before the class starts. Free of charge.
No changes will be allowed after these times.
Terms & Conditions
TERMS & CONDITIONS
By booking a class or course with Usefulbox Sewing School, you agree to these Terms & Conditions and our Studio Etiquette - See below.
All bookings assume you will adhere to these guidelines while attending the studio.
Classes require a minimum of 3–4 students to proceed.
CANCELLATION & REFUND POLICY
When you book a class or course, you are reserving a limited place in a small studio.
If You Cancel
15+ days before start date
• Full refund.
14 days or less before start date
• No refunds.
• One transfer permitted (subject to availability).
• $25 transfer fee applies.
• No transfers within 48 hours of class start time.
• Non-attendance forfeits payment.
5–10 Week Courses (Additional Terms)
• No refunds once the term has commenced.
• No make-up classes. •
Missed classes are not credited, refunded, or transferred.
• Your place is reserved for the full term.
If Usefulbox Cancels
You will be offered either:
• A transfer, or
• A full refund.
Gift Cards
- Gift cards are non-refundable and not redeemable for cash.
- Standard cancellation terms apply once a booking is made using a gift card.
Refunds and exchanges of products
- If you have purchased a faulty product we can offer a refund or exchange. For change of minds, the product must be unused and we can provide an exchange or store credit.
- Further, anyone partaking in any classes or coming to any events at Usefulbox Sewing School or organised by Usefulbox Sewing School must agree to these terms and conditions.
CODE OF CONDUCT
Welcome to Usefulbox Sewing School. Our school is dedicated to fostering a supportive, creative, and inclusive environment where members of all skill levels can share their passion for sewing. To ensure the best experience for everyone, we''ve established the following Code of Conduct.
Liability Waiver
You agree to take on full responsibility for any damages, injuries and for physical and/or personal property, which you might incur whilst participating in classes and/or events organised by Usefulbox Sewing School
Photos and Video
You agree to give Usefulbox Sewing School unrestricted publishing rights for any photographs or videos taken at Usefulbox Sewing School classes and events or on Usefulbox Sewing School premises. (For use of Usefulbox Sewing School marketing materials).
Respect and Inclusivity
Respect for All: Treat all members with respect, kindness, and dignity. Discrimination or harassment of any kind based on race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, age, or religion will not be tolerated.
Inclusive Language: Use inclusive and welcoming language. Avoid stereotypes and respect people’s choices, experiences, and identities.
Safety and Responsibility
Safe Practices: Follow all safety guidelines related to sewing equipment and materials. Report any broken or unsafe equipment to a teacher immediately.
Personal Responsibility: Be responsible for your own equipment and supplies. Respect the belongings of others and the studio’s shared resources.
Collaboration and Sharing
Helping Each Other: Foster a collaborative environment. Members are encouraged to share skills and provide constructive feedback.
Honest Feedback: Give honest, respectful feedback when requested. Constructive criticism should be aimed at sewing projects, not at individuals.
Credit Original Work: Always credit the original designers, patterns, or inspiration for your projects when sharing in the studio or on social media.
Attendance and Participation
Regular Attendance: Regular attendance is encouraged to foster a strong community and also impacts class numbers and if that class can go ahead. Notify us if you will be absent for an extended period as your booking could have been taken by another willing student.
Active Participation: Engage actively in studio activities and discussions. Your ideas and contributions help enrich our community.
Conflict Resolution
Addressing Issues: If conflicts arise, address them respectfully and seek mediation from studio teachers if necessary.
Adherence to Code of Conduct
Upholding the Code: By joining Usefulbox, you agree to abide by this Code of Conduct. Violations may result in a warning or, in severe cases, removal from the studio.
Respect for All: Treat all members with respect, kindness, and dignity. Discrimination, harassment, or any form of racist behaviour or language will not be tolerated. This includes, but is not limited to, remarks based on race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, age, or religion.
Inclusive and Respectful Language: Use language that is inclusive and welcoming. Offensive language, slurs, or derogatory comments are strictly prohibited. Be mindful that jokes or remarks that demean others, even if not intended to hurt, can be harmful and are not acceptable.
Positive Communication: Engage in positive and respectful conversations. Avoid topics that are likely to upset or offend others. This includes avoiding heated political discussions or other contentious topics not related to the activities of the sewing studio.
Feedback with Compassion: When giving feedback, do so with compassion and respect. Be sensitive to the feelings of others and offer constructive critiques that aim to uplift and assist, rather than demean.
Addressing Unacceptable Behaviour: If you witness or are subject to unacceptable behaviour, please report it to the teachers promptly. Confidentiality and appropriate measures will be taken to address the issue.
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