Join us for an immersive three-day retreat starting at one of the country’s oldest textile mills, where they design their own distinctive fabrics. Hear about the full design journey from inception to completion, explore an exquisite selection of textiles, and create your own stunning heritage wool jacket.
Itinerary
Begin your journey in the Sew Different studio, where you’ll select from four beautiful lined jackets and a selection of dresses. We’ll then visit a historic textile mill nestled in the scenic Calder Valley, dating back to the 1850s. Browse their exclusive range of tweeds, tartans, and handcrafted blankets, and learn how they collaborate with talented weavers and finishers to bring their innovative fabrics and accessories to life.
Meet Mike, part of the passionate husband-and-wife team behind From the Mills. He says, “West Yorkshire is celebrated worldwide for its wool weaving heritage, and it’s a privilege to be part of this vital and beautiful chapter of British history.”
Over a cup of tea and biscuits, you’ll discover the intricate wool fabric process from start to finish, along with the captivating history of the mill itself.
Working with Tweed
After selecting and purchasing your fabric, we’ll return to the Sew Different studio. With guidance from our expert tutors, you’ll begin crafting your own bespoke jacket or dress. You may choose to line it with luxurious viscose or soft cotton from the Sew Different range for added comfort and style. Our tutors experience and textile knowledge will help you to get the best from your fabric.
On day 2, you can break from your sewing to enjoy a creative button-covering workshop. Whether you opt for tweed-covered buttons to match your jacket or soft and sophisticated leather to accentuate its colours, you’ll personalise your piece to make it truly yours. You may choose traditional machine-made button holes or you can join the tutor-led group to learn how to hand-stitch your own.
By day 3 you will be coming to the finish of your jacket. For those finishing early, we offer various small projects, from hairbands to bags, to use leftover scraps—ensuring that none of your beautiful fabric goes to waste.
Shopping
There will be plenty of opportunity for browsing/ purchasing the beautiful blankets, throws and fabrics produced by From the Mill. (Please note that we are not see the weaving or manufacturing process at this mill).
There will also be the usual selection of Sew Different’s own range of bespoke cottons and viscose fabrics at the studio, along with a small selection of plain colour lining fabrics.
Hours
Day 1 – 9.30 – 5pm
Day 2 – 9.30 – 5pm
Day 3 – 9.30 – 4.30pm
Every project is individual so we can tailor it to your own style and ability level. You can feel confident tackling new techniques knowing that technical help is always to hand. While we can tailor projects to suit your skills in most cases, this course is not suitable for complete beginners.
Our sewing teachers, Tara (left) and Emma (right), have many years experience. Help and advice is there every step of the way, from chalking out, cutting your pattern and matching your checks to putting your garment together. You will have the benefit of a small teaching group (max 8) so that there is plenty of opportunity for one-on-one help if needed.