The Art of Trouser Making

I bought the Art of Trouser Making workshop because it's been literally decades since I made a fitted pair of trousers with fly, etc. I really wanted some help with fitting and getting back into making this type of garment. The workshop is fantastic. The gentle pace and calm instructions are so helpful. It's nice not to have that annoying fast-forwarding that so many videos do. Every detail was explained clearly and demonstrated with close-ups. I've made my first pair of Daphnes now and I'm looking forward to making an improved version and also making the Worker Trousers. The higher end, tailored nature of all the patterns (with gorgeous details like binding inside) is lovely. I'm so impressed that I have now also bought The Art of Shirt Making and have some denim ready to make the Over Shirt and some matching Daphne or Worker trousers!

I really like the shape and finish of these pants. I made them once on my own without the workshop and I struggled with the zipper binding. The pants turned out well but I should have used a stiffer fabric, I made them from a soft wool fabric that I lined. I decided to follow along with the workshop and I was able to get the binding to look crisp, clean and professional. I still struggled with the zipper installation a bit because there isn’t enough contrast to see the details of the design, the fabric used in the video is a cream color with matching thread color making it difficult to see. Plus, the background is very light and neutral as well. It would be nice if this video was updated using a darker color and contrasting thread. I did enjoy following along and my pants are fantastic, better than my first pair. They are made from a light gray corduroy fabric 8 wale. I am already planning to make another pair out of a heavy cookie twill.

Loved the step by step video, and have now made my first pair of Daphne trousers. First ever zip trousers which I was really nervous about but the workshop gave me confidence with the fitting and sewing techniques. I really enjoyed the process and totally slowed down to enjoy every step of the sew. Thank you and now onto my next pair and the worker trousers.

Another great workshop. My very first trousers makes. I've done my first zip fly with binding in the Daphne trousers, a lovely wide leg with darts at the back for shaping. A very flattering shape. Also my first time constructing a button fly. All went well following the detailed video tutorial. Love my new worker trousers, the style and fit are perfect for me. I've ordered more fabric ready to repeat. Here's a photo of me in the worker trousers with the Frida shirt. I added some extra width to the back section for a few extra ruffles from the yolk.

Much easier to understand what to do by watching someone doing it rather than following written instructions. I made the Worker trousers. Hayley is really clear and doesn’t over simplify or talk down to you. There were parts of the video that were played many times so I got it right. The additional fit videos were really useful as I needed to accommodate my large tummy but this worked. I also added 1.5cm to the waistline but I don’t think that was necessary and will go back to the original in my next pair (there will be several)!
My only criticism would be that it didn’t include fitting a zip rather than buttons.
Definitely going to do another course soon. Thanks Hayley.

I have just finished one pair each of the worker trousers and Daphne trousers using both these workshops and I would highly recommend them to anyone who is interested in making these patterns. I found the zip insertion pretty tricky in the Daphne trousers but now that I have done it once I think I will manage it better the next time. The worker trousers were time consuming to make but not difficult, I actually found them easier than the zip fly Daphne. One tip that worked for me was to cut the binding ever so slightly wider so I had a tiny bit more to play with. Also I found the finished dimensions included 5-6cm of positive ease at the waist which was a bit loose for my taste so I had to take both waist bands off and pull them in a little which was a bit ughhh to do. However next time I will probably grade to the size down in the waist. I enjoy having the video to watch in addition to the PDF instructions. I am sure to make more of both these patterns again in the future. The patterns have a very high quality professional finish to them.

I love Hetty's workshops, she shows the important details along the way. I made a pair of Daphne trousers and ma very happy with them - especially all the lovely bias binding finishing on the inside! I haven't gone through the fitting instructions included on the update yet, but plan to do so when I tackle my next project.

I would rate myself as a not great sewer but keen to improve - I thought this would be a challenge that would make me step up. I have completed all the trousers in the order they suggest and am absolutely thrilled with the results. The instructions with the pattern are so good that I only occasionally needed to refer to the online tutorial but when I did it was equally helpful. The actual trouser patterns are super - they look so good on - for the first time ever something I have made has become a wardrobe staple rather than a novelty. So pleased I took this challenge on - brilliant course and pattern designs. Big thumbs up!

These patterns and workshops have definitely taken my sewing to a new level. I keep picking up my pants and looking at all the little details such as the inside binding, the beautiful top stitching, the button placket...
The problem is that now other people's patterns are severely lacking in comparison!!

Have only made the Daphne Trousers so far. Loved the videos with very good instructions. The only problem I had was the trousers were a very light colour so it was difficult to see whether you were right or wrong side. Also I couldn’t see the stitching. But I managed to lovely pair of summer trousers. I’m looking forward to making a pair of worker trousers soon.

I’ve just completed the Daphne workshop and have the best fitting pair of trousers that I’ve made. Found the trouser fitting video really helpful, so took time measuring, making a toile and fitting and it all paid off. Used a thick cotton twill (12oz I think) from Merchant and Mills and whilst the thickness made some bits difficult, the trousers have good structure, which suits this pattern I think. The workshop was very straightforward to follow and I’m looking forward to making the Worker trousers. Thanks Hetty.

I love the way the pattern works with a video tutorial which takes me through everything a step at a time, with sufficient close detail for me to properly follow each step. I made a lovely pair of worker trousers and am about to start a second pair.

I made the first trousers on the list and although I found the fly instructions scant I managed it! I liked the look of the binding and added binding to the waist band. It looked very smart. Looking forward to making the work trousers next

I am returning to sewing my own clothes , I used to make my own clothes in the 70’s. I picked up new modern ideas from Hetti and I made a toile for my trousers so they were a perfect fit. From the video instrctions it was easy to change my pattern for the fit. I am receiving fabric for the spring trousers Christmas day so I am excited to start to make them during my Christmas break.
I havent purchased any clothes for over a year and I plan to make any I need so experiencing the worshop and patterns has given me the confidence that what I make will be a perfect fit for me and an enjoyable hobby during retirement.

First and most importantly, the explanatory videos are really clear and well considered. Your style is calm and informative and being able to repeat and review the instructions multiple times is great. The only criticism I have is that a zip fly is quite an advanced and complex bit of sewing - I would suggest that starting with a simple pull-on trouser pattern for stage one and working up to a more tailored trouser with a zip fly and complex pockets would work better for a lot of people who are new to trouser making. Having said that, this still represents great value considering it includes three patterns and lots of instruction on fitting, making, fabric choices etc.

Speedy service

I hugely enjoyed this course. I am a funny tube shape and have failed to get trousers to fit properly, but not now. I am the proud producer of two pairs of trousers so far, that I am delighted with, and about to embark on the Spring trousers. The video to accompany the instructions is great, my only quibble being that for the Daphne trousers, having a demonstartion pale fabric on a pale surface meant that I struggled to see detail, but my eyes are not what they used to be. I am an experienced sewer but hand holding and learning some new tips and tricks from someone was a pleasure.

I’ve had a fabulous time choosing all the materials and various bits that go with the workshops. I’ve read and reread the instructions too. Unfortunately I can’t sew them just yet as my left hand is in plaster, I have managed to cut everything out. It’s all in order on hangers ready to use the sewing machine.I loved being able to access the videos and have learnt so so much. They are very interesting with information that will enable me to complete the projects Thank you so much as these workshops have enabled to sit read look and learn. Definitely recommended to anyone who wants to build their wardrobe

Loved this.

What an amazing course/collection this is. With really good sew along videos, showing all the sewing involved which really helped with the technical stuff, easy to visualise what’s needed and easy to apply to practice etc. equally the written instructions were easily readable and easy to follow. Well worth the money.

I decided to make the Spring trousers, not realising at first they are the most complicated. I have been sewing for years but have never been brave enough to try fitted trousers. I think the pattern and the instructions are really well constructed and although I had a few hiccups with the fly and the elastic in the back of the trousers - I should have chosen 4cm rather than 5cm- I am very pleased with what I will call my wearable toile. They fit beautifully -I made a size 14- and i will definitely make them again. I need to ensure next time that the zip is completely hidden . I am going to try the Daphne trousers next -probably should have made those first! I found the still photos about making the fly very useful to refer to. I really enjoyed making these trousers- thank you!

I’m a reasonable sewer but I’d never made a pair of trousers I was really happy with. I made the worker trousers and I’m really pleased. The pattern is beautifully constructed and the instructions are very clear. The construction technique was different to anything I’d made before, completing the legs separately meant I could fell both inside and outside seam making them feel very robust. I was a bit worried that the button fly might be a bit bulky but actually it’s brilliant. Completing both sides of the fly separately meant I could get a super smooth central seam. With three patterns and the videos it’s a really good value package

I am a very confident sewer but have never been comfortable trying to alter a pattern, as a result I have shied away from fitted garments. The fitting guide now included in this workshop looks to be a game changer. Thank you so much for this addition.