Once upon a time, your Ruby Assembly head protagonist Iolanthe read a Marion Zimmer Bradley novel called ‘The Mists of Avalon’ (a feminist re-telling of the Arthurian Tales) and got very enthused about pentacles, fairy wings and making sweeping medieval gowns out of panne velvet from Spotlight. Thankfully, this period passed. However, in its passing she lost her mad Janome sewing skillz. Today’s blog is about Iolanthe hopping back on the horse (as it were) and sewing again at Dear Gladys Beginner Sewing Classes, High Street Northcote.

Welcomed by Dear Gladys (vintage shop which supports not-for-profit organisation Fitted for Work) manager Melissa who was armed with champagne, juice, tea and a range of cheese and grapes a small group of ladies who wanted to sew were instructed by the gorgeous Remi (our sewing teacher) on the events to follow. Remi had cut patterns in a range of sizes for a beautiful 1950’s style full skirt which we were going to make an a material of our choice. Materials on the night included a Kenzo-style pleated photographic print, hardy denim, french toile and a gigantic flower print. Night one involved pinning the pattern pieces, cutting them out carefully, using an overlocker to finish edges professionally and ironing fusing material. It also involved terrific conversation and lots of fun! We recommend. We’re going back for session two tomorrow night, where I understand we’ll be sewing the skirt together. Here are a few photos of the night.

L-R: Gorgeous student Louisa and Remi teaching us mad overlocking skillz.

L-R: Iolanthe from Ruby Assembly and Melissa from Dear Gladys telling that fusing who’s boss with the iron.