Master The Art of Shirt Making- Make the Ilford Jacket by Friday Pattern Co.

Master the art of shirt making while creating a versatile garment you'll reach for all year round.

The Ilford Jacket by Friday Pattern Co. is the perfect introduction to shirt construction, with the added flexibility of choosing your finished style. Sew it in a lightweight woven fabric to create a classic everyday shirt, or choose a medium to heavyweight fabric such as denim, brushed cotton, twill or canvas to make a stylish shacket – the perfect throw-on layer for changing seasons.

Suitable for both men and women, the Ilford features a relaxed, oversized fit with dropped shoulders, making it a comfortable and modern wardrobe staple. With a choice of sleeve styles, multiple pocket options and two lengths, you can personalise your garment while learning a wide range of professional shirt-making techniques.

Whether you're looking to expand your sewing skills or tackle your first collared garment, this workshop will guide you through every step with expert tuition.

About the Pattern

The Ilford Jacket is a versatile unisex pattern designed with both style and practicality in mind. Depending on your fabric choice, it can become a lightweight overshirt or a cosy shacket that's perfect for layering.

You'll have the option of sewing traditional sleeves with a cuff and sleeve placket, or choosing the simpler boxy sleeve for a more relaxed look and a quicker make. Multiple pocket options allow you to create a garment that's uniquely yours.

What to Expect

Over two enjoyable days, you'll begin by discussing your chosen version of the Ilford, taking accurate body measurements and selecting the correct size. You'll then prepare your pattern, cut your fabric, transfer markings and plan your construction.

With step-by-step guidance throughout, you'll work through the specialist techniques involved in shirt making, gaining confidence as you build your garment. By the end of the workshop, you'll have developed a range of transferable skills that can be applied to many future shirt and jacket patterns.

What You'll Learn

• Choosing the correct size for your body
• Making simple pattern adjustments
• Cutting woven fabrics accurately
• Constructing a traditional shirt collar
• Topstitching for a professional finish
• Sewing sleeves
• Creating a sleeve placket and cuff (if choosing the traditional sleeve option)
• Applying patch pockets
• Sewing buttonholes and attaching buttons
• Working confidently with medium to heavyweight woven fabrics
• Pressing and finishing techniques for a beautifully made garment

What You'll Need to Bring

• A sewing machine, threaded and in good working order
  (If you'd like to use one of ours, please let us know when booking—machines are limited.)
• A basic sewing kit (scissors, pins, tape measure, etc.)
• Fabric and notions for your chosen version of the Ilford
• Matching thread
• Buttons

A detailed materials list, including recommended fabrics and quantities, will be emailed to you after booking.

Level

Improver

This workshop is ideal for anyone who has made a few garments before and is ready to develop their skills with collars, cuffs, buttonholes and shirt construction techniques.

Duration

2 Days
10:00am – 4:00pm each day.

Tutor

Elizabeth Edwards

Additional Information

We aim to complete as much of your garment as possible during the workshop. Depending on your sewing pace and chosen options, you may need to finish a few final details at home. If so, we'll ensure you leave with the knowledge and confidence to complete your shirt or shacket independently.

A detailed fabric and notions checklist will be sent after booking, along with guidance on selecting suitable fabrics for either a lightweight shirt or a heavier shacket.

Please read our Workshop Cancellation Policy before booking.