Freehand Cutting and Sewing of Peplum Tops
A course by Chinelo BallyFashion Designer, Dressmaker, and Author
A course by Chinelo Bally, Fashion Designer, Dressmaker, and Author
Learn to make long-lasting garments that are inclusive of all body types using the freehand cutting method
Peplum tops are classically very flattering garments, but when** the bodice is made to measure** — they make for the perfect article of clothing. Renowned fashion designer and dressmaker Chinelo Bally is here to teach you how to make a fashionable new outfit that can be styled to create both dressy and casual looks. You may know Chinelo from season two of BBC2's "The Great British Sewing Bee” as the second-place finalist.
In this online course, learn how to make beautiful peplum tops that celebrate femininity and are inclusive of all body types. Chinelo teaches you the freehand cutting method, which is a simple yet exciting technique perfect for fashionistas, no matter your dressmaking experience.
What will you learn in this online course?
17 lessons & 8 downloads
Introduction to Freehand Cutting
3 minutes, 37 seconds
How to Handle Different Fabrics
4 minutes, 44 seconds
Tools and Materials
2 minutes, 43 seconds
Taking Measurements
10 minutes, 37 seconds
Folding, Mapping, and Cutting: The Bodice
10 minutes, 9 seconds
Folding, Mapping, and Cutting: The Peplum or Skirt
13 minutes, 58 seconds
What's included in this course?
Meet Chinelo Bally, a fashion designer, dressmaker, author, and your teacher for this course. Hear about her creative journey into the world of fashion, before getting to know the key influences that have shaped her style.
Get introduced to the freehand cutting method, and what it involves. Learn** how to handle the various fabrics** you’ll be using throughout the course. Chinelo then goes through all the tools and materials needed, before showing you** how to take measurements correctly.**
Learn how to fold, map, and cut the bodice and peplum according to your measurements See how to add darts to your garment for shape and facings in preparation for sewing. Chinelo then shows you** how to properly sew the various pieces together and insert the zipper.**
Next, learn how to hem the curved edges, before exploring an alternative zipper method, which allows you to conceal it. Lastly, Chinelo shows you how to do the seams and treat them for different finishes.
What is this course's project?
Cut and sew a flared, A-line peplum top using the freehand cutting method.
Who is this online course for?
This course is perfect for beginners, but anyone interested in learning how to make bodices and peplum tops are welcomed.
Requirements and materials
The only prior knowledge needed to do this course is the ability to operate a sewing machine.
Materials needed are:
⦁fabric
⦁iron-on interfacing
⦁zipper
⦁cotton thread
⦁measuring tape
⦁chalk (or something to mark your fabric with)
⦁iron
⦁a sewing machine
Reviews
- malika_gPLUS1 year ago
Thoroughly enjoyed this lesson. Learning the art of freehand cutting has been a long time desire of mine and finally getting it here in a structured and well explained manner is fantastic. I highly recommend this course if you are one who struggle to comprehend the witchcraft of patterning haha.
- 2 years ago
tres bon cours très professionnel. Merci beaucoup
- 2 years ago
Buen curso, se entiende el paso a paso de la construcción del top peplum y deja un gran aprendizaje.
- 2 years ago
Great course please make more your a very clear tutor
- 3 years ago
Chinelo is so calm she makes me feel confident!
Her first television appearance was as a contestant on BBC2's "The Great British Sewing Bee”, where she came in second. Following the success of the show, she has written two bestselling books, Freehand Fashion and Sew Chinelo. She is also the CEO and creative director of the Chinelo Bally studios in Lagos, Nigeria, where they specialize in bridal and occasion-wear for women worldwide and have even dressed celebrities for high-end events.
Content
- U1
Introduction
- About Me
- Influences
- U2
Learning the Basics
- Introduction to Freehand Cutting
- How to Handle Different Fabrics
- Tools and Materials
- Taking Measurements
- U3
Making the Garment
- Folding, Mapping, and Cutting: The Bodice
- Folding, Mapping, and Cutting: The Peplum or Skirt
- Adding Darts to the Bodice
- Preparing the Facings 1
- Preparing the Facings 2
- Sewing the Pieces Together 1
- Sewing the Pieces Together 2
- Inserting the Zipper
- U4
Extra Tips
- Hemming Curved Edges
- A Concealed Zipper
- Adapting the Seams for Different Finishes
- FP
Final project
- Freehand Cutting and Sewing of Peplum Tops
What to expect from a Domestika course
Learn at your own pace
Enjoy learning from home without a set schedule and with an easy-to-follow method. You set your own pace.
Learn from the best professionals
Learn valuable methods and techniques explained by top experts in the creative sector.
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Each expert teaches what they do best, with clear guidelines, true passion, and professional insight in every lesson.
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FAQs
Freehand dressmaking involves creating garments by directly drawing and cutting on fabric using body measurements, without commercial patterns. This approach offers custom fit, flexibility, and creativity, letting you tailor clothes uniquely to your body and style.
This course is best for those with basic sewing skills who want to advance into intermediate techniques like freehand cutting and custom garment construction. Beginners can follow but some prior experience will help you fully benefit.
You’ll need fabric, measuring tape, tailor’s chalk, scissors, sewing machine, pins, thread, interfacing, zipper, and a seam ripper. Optional items include a zipper foot, iron, and beading supplies for embellishments.
You’ll learn to take accurate measurements, choose and prepare fabrics, use freehand cutting, construct bodices and peplums, sew darts, attach zippers, finish edges, and adapt or upcycle garments for a perfect fit.
Start with stable, medium-weight fabrics like cotton or Ankara, which are easier to handle and forgiving for beginners. Avoid slippery or stretchy materials until you build more confidence.
Yes, the course covers troubleshooting common sewing mistakes, including using a seam ripper, correcting fit issues, and tips for preventing errors during construction.
Absolutely—this course provides step-by-step guidance for constructing maxi skirts and custom peplum tops using freehand measurement and cutting methods.