Collars and plackets are often the point where confidence wobbles — not because they’re impossible, but because they demand accuracy, order, and understanding why each step matters.

This Collars & Plackets Workshop is a focused skills-builder designed to demystify these key garment details. Rather than rushing through a full garment, we slow things down and work methodically, so you can practise, repeat, and really understand the techniques that make collars crisp and openings beautifully finished.

You’ll work through samples and exercises, building a reference set you can return to again and again when sewing shirts, dresses, and lightweight jackets.

What You’ll Learn

Collars

• How collars are constructed and how they relate to the neckline

• A convertible collar — ideal for casual shirts and dresses

• A two-piece shirt collar, including stand, collar, roll line, and shape

• Techniques for accuracy, symmetry, and clean collar finishes

Plackets & Openings

• A placket opening for cuffs, including correct construction order

• A continuous bound opening for sleeves and centre openings

• How to choose the right opening for the garment you’re making

• Common mistakes — and how to fix them

Along the way, we’ll cover fabric choice, interfacing, grain, and finishing details that make all the difference.

Ideal For

This workshop is ideal if you:

• Have sewn garments before but avoid collars and plackets

• Want to improve the finish and professionalism of your makes

• Are building skills for shirtmaking, dressmaking, or pattern cutting

• Prefer understanding how things work, not just following instructions

Basic machine confidence is all you need.

You’ll Leave With

By the end of the workshop, you’ll leave with:

• A set of professionally finished samples for collars and plackets

• A clear understanding of construction order and why it matters

• The confidence to tackle collars and openings without second-guessing

• Techniques you can apply across shirts, dresses, and other garments

• A practical reference you can return to whenever you’re sewing at home

Most importantly, you’ll leave knowing that collars and plackets are no longer something to avoid.

What’s Included

• All demo fabrics, interfacing, and sample materials

• Printed reference notes to support your learning

• Use of studio equipment and tools

• Individual guidance throughout the day

• Tea, coffee, and a supportive, focused studio environment

(You’re welcome to bring your own fabrics if you’d like to practise on something specific.)

This workshop is perfect for anyone who wants precise, professional tailoring finishes and the satisfaction of mastering beautiful detail work.

Lunch is not included so please feel free to bring your own, or make use of the lovely Cafe we have onsite.