Couture Hand Sewing: Make a Cocktail Dress in Quarter Scale

In this hands-on workshop, held at V&A East Storehouse, you’ll refine your hand sewing skills using luxury black fabrics under the expert guidance of tutor Rowena Luke-King. You'll work with a bespoke pattern created specifically for this workshop, learning how to mark and cut delicate black fabrics, insert a miniature centre back zip, and finish blind hems using both slip stitch and herringbone stitch. You’ll also create intricate rouloux loops, perfect for fine straps and bows, and learn how to press silk perfectly. As part of the workshop, you will have the opportunity to see some garments that inspired the design up close during a special session hosted by V&A Curators. You'll leave the session with a completed dress and the skills and confidence to take into future projects.