The Refashion Handbook Class Plan

by Beth Huntington

T-Shirt Maxi Dress Project

Class Description
Ah, the maxi dress! So cute, so versatile and so fun to make. Even a beginning sewist can successfully create a unique and perfectly fitting maxi dress in one class session. This is not only a great project to introduce students to basic garment construction but it's also a great way to give one of their old t-shirts a new life and to try their hand at refashioning. Along the way they will learn how to measure for fit, sew a basic seam, gather, and finish a raw edge. Each student will leave this class with a wearable one-of-a-kind maxi dress they will be proud to wear.
 
Class Length
This class is a single session class should only take approximately two hours. Plus shopping for the knit fabric.

Class Supply List

  • Required text: The Refashion Handbook by Beth Huntington
  • T-shirt to use for the top of the dress- this shirt should fit well in the shoulders and bust.
  • 1 1/2 to 2 yards of knit fabric to use for the bottom of the dress.
  • 1/4 inch elastic
  • Jersey or ball-point needles
  • Coordinating thread
  • Measuring tape
  • Sewing scissors
  • Pins
  • Rotary cutter and mat (Optional)

TIP:  This would be a great time to have students shop for their coordinating thread and knit fabric for the bottom of the dress and learn the benefits of using a rotary cutter and mat for a potential purchase.

Classroom Preparation
Students will need to have a variety of knit fabrics available and The Refashion Handbook to purchase. Students will also need an area to cut their fabric and individual sewing machines.

Class Agenda

  • Choose knit fabric to coordinate with their t-shirt
  • Measure and cut t-shirt and fabric (Basic Refashioning Skills: Measuring for Fit)
  • Gather (Basic Refashioning Skills: Gathering)
  • Sew (Basic Refashioning Skills: Sewing a Basic Seam)
  • Hem (Basic Refashioning Skills: Finishing Raw Edges)