SEWING CLASSES / ADVANCED
Evening & Bridal Dresses
14 Weeks
3.5 hrs per session
Max 6 students
TUITION
$1,715
Prerequisite: Sewing 102
Industrial machines provided
ABOUT THE COURSE
Where serious sewists make something unforgettable.
Evening & Bridal Dresses is The Altered Thread's most advanced group course — and the one students talk about long after it ends. Working with couture-grade fabrics including chiffon, satin, and lace, you will master the construction methods that separate a professionally made gown from everything else. Shanti teaches each technique with the same precision she applies to her own bridal work: boning, invisible closures, hand-finishing, and the patience to fit a garment until it is exactly right. You will leave with a finished formal or bridal garment — and the technical foundation to construct one again on your own.
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN & MAKE
Skills, techniques, and finished projects.
SKILLS COVERED
Working with delicate and structured fabrics: chiffon, satin, duchess, and lace
Advanced pattern fitting and draping techniques for formal silhouettes
Constructing and inserting boning for structured bodices
Setting invisible zippers and applying couture-quality closures
Professional hand-sewing finishing techniques for linings and hems
Attaching embellishments — beading, appliqué, and lace placement
Steam-pressing and handling delicate fabrics without damage
PROJECTS YOU'LL COMPLETE
Structured evening gown bodice
Full-length gown with a lined, structured skirt
Bridal veil, sash, or wearable accessory (student's choice)
Materials note: All machines are provided. Students supply specialty fabrics and notions. Upon enrollment you will receive a curated materials guide — including recommended fabric types, approved sources for bridal-quality materials, and estimated yardage per project phase. Do not purchase fabric before receiving this list.
STUDENT POLICY
What you need to know before enrolling.
01
Registration & Payment
Course fees are non-refundable once the term begins. Cancellations made at least 7 days prior to the start date are eligible for a full refund. A 3-payment plan ($572 × 3) is available — contact us before enrolling to arrange. Prerequisite: Sewing 102 or a demonstrated intermediate level of garment construction experience. If you are unsure whether you qualify, contact us before registering and Shanti will assess your readiness.
02
Attendance
This is the most technically demanding course we offer. Each session introduces construction methods that build directly on the last — missing even one class will significantly impact your ability to keep pace with the group and complete your garment. We cannot offer makeup sessions for missed classes. If you miss a session, contact the instructor immediately to receive guidance on how to prepare before the next class.
03
Materials & Equipment
All industrial sewing machines — including specialized equipment for delicate and structured fabrics — are provided by the studio. Students are responsible for sourcing their own fabrics and notions per the curated materials guide provided at enrollment. Do not purchase fabric before receiving the guide. Bring your materials list and all purchased materials to the first session for instructor review before cutting begins.
04
Studio Safety
You will be working on professional-grade industrial equipment throughout the course, including tools specific to bridal and couture construction. All students must follow the step-by-step safety guidance provided by the instructor at all times. A standard liability waiver is signed at the first session.