Specialization: Fashion Craftsmanship with Handmade Techniques

Influences | Marta Grau (Lilday)

The time has come to tell you about some of the things that most inspire my creativity. I am going to show you through some of the collections that I have created in Lilday.

Module 2

Step into the timeless world of hatmaking with Nuriel and Audrey Molcho, the creative minds behind NOMADE MODERNE HATS. You’ll explore the fascinating revival of hats in fashion and uncover the roots of this elegant craft. From inspiration to intention, this is where your creative journey begins—by understanding not just how to make a hat, but why it matters.

13 lessons (2h 2m)

Tools and Materials

What are the tools of the trade? In this lesson, we will cover what you need to make your hat, from materials to equipment.

The Mood Board

An important step in the creative process is making a mood board. You will learn how to draw from your own inspirations to choose the fabrics and decorations you will use to make your hat.

Hat Blocks

In this lesson, we will look at the different types of hat blocks you can use to shape the base of your hat, including open crowns and flat tops. You will learn the differences between each type.

Fabrics for Hat Making

There are various types of fabrics you can work with to make your hat. In this lesson, we will delve into some of the available options.

Finding Your Head Size

Enough with the theory, let's dive into hat-making! In this lesson, you will learn how to measure your head size. This is the first step of the creative process.

Blocking the Felt

Once you've gathered all the measurements you need, the next step is to block the felt over a hat block using steam. This will help you to achieve the desired shape.

Cutting the Brim and Pouncing the Felt

When the felt is dry, you will need to pounce it—smoothen it out with sandpaper—and cut the brim to the desired length. This step will ensure a cleaner finish.

With the base of the hat complete, it's time to progress from the hands-on, muscle work to the detailing stage. For this, you will need patience and precision. To start with, you will learn how to prepare an inside band or sweatband.

Preparing the Sweatband

22m

Sewing In the Sweatband

You will now sew the finished sweatband into your hat according to the markings you've made. Once the sweatband is in place, make sure that it's sitting smoothly before starting to sew.

To conclude this unit, we will cover how to mold the crown of your hat into its desired shape. You will learn how to achieve a fedora, but this is by no means a shape this you need to stick to.

Shaping the Hat

It's time to add those personal details and use the fabrics you chose for your hat in your mood board. Let's get creative!

Decorations

Almost done! It's time to give your hat the finishing touch. You will learn a couple of ways to bring character and a certain edge to your work.

Final Touches

Reshaping and Resizing a Vintage Hat

Seen a hat you like but need to tweak a little? In this lesson, we'll show you how to resize and reshape a vintage or new hat.

Module 3

With Beth Dow as your guide, discover how simple shapes become something sculptural, functional, and truly your own. In this module, you’ll get a glimpse into Beth’s creative world and her passion for craftsmanship. It’s the perfect starting point to dive into leatherwork with intention—where design meets utility, and making becomes meaningful.

23 lessons (5h 47m)

Vegetable-Tanned Cowhide

In this lesson, I will introduce you to vegetable-tanned cowhide—the material that will be used for the course project. This type of leather has been processed using vegetable matter, like natural bark and other plant materials.

In this lesson, I will show you the tools you need to make this project, from the necessary basics and the optional extras! I will also give a brief overview of the brands that I prefer to use.

Tools and Materials

Next, I will talk about how to draft patterns for leatherwork and modify the dimensions of your tote bag. By the end, you will have your templates ready to trace onto the leather.

Drafting the Pattern

Cutting the Leather 1

Now that you have your pattern templates, the next step is to mark the leather and cut it out. I will model this process step by step, by preparing the front pocket and progressing to some surface embellishments.

In the second part of this lesson, I will continue to work on the second pocket, creating a gridded pattern by following my cutting mat as a guide. Remember that it's much easier to score towards you than away!

Cutting the Leather 2

Preparing for Sewing 1

To get started, you will learn how to finish the top edges of your tote bag and prepare the side seams for sewing. I will demonstrate how to use the beveling tool.

In the second part of this lesson, I will continue using the stitching chisel to punch holes into the edges of my leather. Then, I will show you how to make the necessary preparations to attach the pocket.

Preparing for Sewing 2

17m

Preparing for Sewing 3

Now that I've prepared the edges of the pocket, the next step is to position it. I will place it onto the body of my bag and mark out its placement, before punching in the stitching holes.

Sewing with the Saddle Stitch 1

You will now learn how to prepare your thread, which will involve covering it with beeswax, before practicing the saddle stitch.

Sewing with the Saddle Stitch 2

With the thread waxed and measured, I will now show you how to stitch the leather. You will see how to anchor the thread, before learning the step-by-step choreography to successfully execute the saddle stitch.

Sewing with the Siddle Stitch 3

Finally, in the last part of this lesson, I will show you how to set the stitches by hammering the edges of the leather. I will also explain the importance of scraping off any excess wax as you go.

Sewing on the Pocket

It's time to apply the stitching techniques you've learned to the course project! In this lesson, I will demonstrate how to use the saddle stitch to attach the front pocket.

Making the Bottom Panel 1

Next, I will teach you how to prepare and attach the bottom interior panel. Then, you will learn how to add feet to your bag. These are intended to act as a layer of protection.

17m

Making the Bottom Panel 2

Now that I'm finished with the base panel—the edges are nicely bevelled and the holes are punched—it's now time to connect this to the bag's body.

How to Make and Attach the Handles 1

Next, I will show you how to make two-layered handles and attach them to the tote body with copper rivets. To start with, I will demonstrate how to mark your leather.

How to Make and Attach the Handles 2

It's time to attach the rivets! I will walk you through the process of setting, cutting, peening, and (optionally) sewing the rivets in place.

Wet Molding the End Panels

In this lesson, I will teach you about wet molding vegetable-tanned leather to prepare the end panels for the tote bag.

Cementing the End Panels 1

Once the panels are dry and the edges have been scored, bevelled, and burnished, you will need to attach and cement them to your tote bag using adhesive.

Cementing the End Panels 2

I will now show you how to trim the seam of the side panels with a sharp knife. You will learn the essential measures to take to ensure you handle the tool safely.

Sewing the End Panels 1

In this lesson, you will learn how to make stitching holes with an awl and sew the side panels. First, I will guide you in marking the interior stitching guideline using dividers.

In the second part of this lesson, I will continue sewing the edges of the panels. Finally, I will finish the bag by attaching rivets to the corners.

Sewing the End Panels 2

Let's bring your project to a strong finish! I will demonstrate how to gently shape the bag and stretch open the pocket seams.

The Final Shaping

Sealing and Treating the Leather

In this lesson, you will learn how to finish your tote bag by treating the leather. I will also explain how to care for the leather and why this is so important.

Let's start by preparing for our project. I'll guide you through the materials to transform old garments into stylish new pieces. Gather your tools, and let's get ready!

Module 4

Join Luisa Hurtado and discover how sustainability can fuel your creativity. In this module, you’ll rethink the value of worn garments and learn how to turn them into something bold, stylish, and entirely new. It’s not just about sewing—it’s about transforming materials with purpose, making fashion more personal, and reimagining what clothes can be.

15 lessons (2h 21m)

Materials

Selecting and Understanding Your Materials

In this lesson, we'll learn how to choose the best garments for upcycling. I'll share tips on selecting fabrics that will elevate your final creations.

How to Conceptualize a Design from Existing Clothes

Now we are going to start looking deeper at our garment before we create our final design & sketch.

Sketching and Planning

In this next lesson, we will bring our ideas out on paper, and I will show you how simple it can be. Then we will progress to make the pattern for our backpack.

Preparing and Deconstructing Your Garment

Before we start sewing, we need to deconstruct our garments. I'll show you how to carefully remove your jeans and use as much fabric as possible for our backpack.

Cutting Our Sewing Pattern & Preparing the Pieces 1

It's time to cut our fabric using the sewing patterns. Follow along as we prepare each piece needed for our backpack, ensuring minimal waste and maximum use of material.

Cutting Our Sewing Pattern & Preparing the Pieces 2

We continue delving into exciting ideas in this part of the lesson. Pay close attention!

Designing the Front and Sewing the Zipper

Let's get into the fun part: designing the front of our backpack and sewing the zipper. I'll share tips for beginners and advanced sewers to make this step smoother and more creative.

Sewing the Straps and Building the Backpack 1

Now, we'll assemble our backpack. I'll guide you through sewing the straps and making all the pieces to form a functional and stylish bag.

Sewing the Straps and Building the Backpack 2

We keep addressing interesting concepts in this stage of the lesson. Don’t miss it for anything!

Lining and Finishing the Backpack

In this final lesson of the unit, we'll cut and sew the lining for our backpack and complete the final assembly. I'll show you how to give your backpack a professional finish, ensuring it looks great inside and out.

Before I start using my bags or backpacks, I make sure I secure all the seams and everything looks finished.

Finishing Touches

Creative Extensions and Upcycling Common Challenges

Everything works! I will show you how to use some leftover material and elevate your final project.

Designing your Makeup Bag with Scraps, Cutting & Assembling

Let’s decide what size our makeup bag should be. You can make it as big or small as you want. Then, let’s cut the pieces we need for our bag.

Sewing and Adding Features

In this lesson, we will sew and line the makeup bag. Then, we will add the closing feature using a reused button to finish it.

Intro to Granny Square Crochet

Module 5

Get ready to stitch your way into creativity with Katie Jones! In this cheerful module, you’ll discover how a single strand of yarn can turn into something vibrant and full of personality. With Katie’s playful guidance, you’ll learn the foundations of crochet and begin to unlock the magic behind the granny square—one loop at a time.

18 lessons (3h 10m)

In this lesson, I’m going to introduce the granny square: from first popping up in The Art of Crocheting as an engraving, in 1891, through its boom in the 60s and 70s, to how it’s been adopted by modern fashion.

Tools and Materials

In this lesson, I’m going to introduce you to the crochet and design tools needed along with an overview of the different hooks you can use.

Getting Your Grip

Now I will practically lead you through the hand set up, how to hold the yarn, create a slip stitch, and work a chain stitch. All of it will allow you to practice and prepare for the next unit. Note: In the video, at minute 6:05, I said: “and my next finger on my left hand”, and it should be right hand.

Basic Granny Square

In this lesson, I’m going to teach you how to make the basic stitches by crocheting a block colour granny square. I will show you practically every stitch, covering chain stitch, slip stitch, and treble crochet.

Design Inspiration and Colour Palette

In this lesson, I’m going to show you how to begin designing the final piece, starting with the first stage: looking for inspiration and playing with colour palettes.

In this lesson, I’m going to teach how yarn choice can drastically change the look of a project. We will also explore how different weights or yarn types can affect the jumper feel.

Jumper Fit and Feel

Three Colourway Granny Square with Border 1

In this lesson, you're going to learn how to make a three colour granny square. I will show practically every stitch and the specific techniques to make them.

Three Colourway Granny Square with Border 2

In this second part of the lesson, we're going to work on the third row and the border of our granny square.

In this lesson, I will teach you how to create a spot design for the granny square, and the different techniques required to create it.

Spot Granny Square

In this lesson, I will show you how to sew in your ends with two types of techniques, to give your squares a clean and secure finish.

Sewing in Your Ends

Planning Your Jumper

In this lesson, I will show how to plan the garment by using the sample granny tension square, and how to use your favourite jumper as a base to calculate how many squares you will need.

Making Your Jumper Body 1

In this lesson, I’m going to demonstrate how you can complete the body section of your final piece from the squares we produced in the last unit.

Making Your Jumper Body 2

In the second part of this lesson, I will show how to join all the rows together to make a complete front.

Now I’m going to teach how to add sleeves to the design. I will show where to line the pieces up on the shoulders and how to complete the main section of the body.

Sleeves

Edging

Here I’m going to teach how to finish the crochet work with a double crochet edging. I will show demonstrate how to finalize your piece to a high standard.

Blocking

In this lesson, I’m going to teach you how to finish your crochet work by showing you how to block. Blocking is the final act where we wet or steam the garment so it lies flat and keeps its shape.

Caring for Your Garment

In this lesson, I’m going to show you how to care for your make: how to fold, wash, dry flat, and fix loose ends.

Sharing on Social Media and Community Platforms

Now I'm going to show you how to utilise social media and get involved with the crochet community. Photograph and share your work as you go, and connect with other makers!

Module 6

Lydia Higginson believes that making your own clothes is more than a skill—it’s a statement. Discover how sewing can empower your self-expression and transform your relationship with fashion. With every stitch, you’ll learn to create something that not only fits your body, but also your values. It’s time to claim your wardrobe as your own, one handmade piece at a time.

14 lessons (3h 5m)

History and Design

In this lesson, I will share the incredibly rich history of the bomber jacket from the 1940s to the present day.

Materials and Tools

Now, I will introduce you to the tools needed to make the jacket and show you how to use a sewing machine.

Mood Board and Inspiration

Let's start to design your jacket. In this lesson, I will talk about colour, print, texture, and embellishment.

Taking Your Measurement and Finding Your Size

In this lesson, I will show you how to do a body check-in to become very comfortable with your body. Then, you will learn how to take your measurements and find your size using the chart.

Pattern

Next, you will discover how to cut the pattern out and make any desired adjustments.

Here, I'm going to show you how to cut out your fabric.

Cutting the Fabric

Pockets, Side, and Shoulder Seams 1

Let's begin by sewing the pockets.

Pockets, Side, and Shoulder Seams 2

Now it's time to focus on the side and underarm seams, and then we will insert the sleeves.

In this lesson, I will show you how to sew the hem and the collar, and how to add the lining.

Collar, Hem, and Lining

Sewing the Zip and Cuffs 1

It's time to sew the zip in place.

21m

Sewing the Zip and Cuffs 2

Let's finish with the zip and attach the cuffs.

In this lesson, I will show you how to make beautiful embroideries using your sewing machine.

Embroidery

Now, I will show you how to apply embellishments to your jacket.

Applique

Quilting

Finally, I will demonstrate how to quilt your bomber jacket to add warmth and texture.

Module 7

Style doesn’t have to follow rules—and Monisola Omotoso shows you how to rewrite them. Learn how to draft a classic trouser block from scratch, using your own measurements and imagination. Whether you’re keeping it timeless or adding bold twists, this is your chance to design pieces that reflect who you are and evolve with every wear.

19 lessons (3h 54m)

Tools and Equipment

In this lesson, I will walk you through the necessary equipment and demonstrate how to use it, in case any is unfamiliar.

Basic Pattern Cutting: Flat Pattern Cutting and Useful Terminology

Next, I will discuss what flat pattern cutting is and decipher important terminology.

Basic Pattern Cutting: Darts, Curves, Squaring Off, and Seam Allowances

Now, it's time to explore how to make darts, curved pattern pieces, and add seam allowances.

Exploring Popular Trouser Styles

In this lesson, I will discuss the various trouser styles with an emphasis placed on the most popular. I will then cover the trouser's fit. You will learn the difference between fit ease and design ease when developing designs into patterns.

Making the Personalized Trouser Block 1

Next, I will show you how to take measurements accurately, formulate a drafting chart, and make your block pattern. To do this, I will make use of the attachment files you can find below.

Making the Personalized Trouser Block 2

With the front block drafted, it's time to move on to the back block. To ease this process, I will flip the front block and then trace it.

Sewing, Fitting, Amending, and Transferring the Toile 1

In this lesson, you will learn how to cut the block out in calico, sew it, and fit it. To begin this process, I will introduce you to key tools like the driller and the notcher, and how to use them.

Sewing, Fitting, Amending, and Transferring the Toile 2

Once you have the calico cut, it's time to start sewing! In this lesson, I will walk you through this process. By the end, you will have a finished toile.

Drafting a Two-Piece Waistband

In this lesson, I will demonstrate how to draft a curved, two-piece waistband.

Next, we’ll work on drafting a front slash pocket opening, facing, and finally a pocket bag.

Drafting the Pockets

Drafting the Fly Front and Trouser Legs 1

Let's start drafting the patterns for the fly front opening. To begin, you will see an example. Then, as always, I will model how to work from the block pattern to establish the measurements.

Drafting the Fly Front and Trouser Legs 2

Here, I will repeat the same process for the left leg, this time omitting the fly front's 0.5 extension.

Stitching: Darts, Pockets, and Fly Front 1

In this lesson, I will show you how to cut out the pattern, then sew the darts and pockets on the trousers.

Stitching: Darts, Pockets, and Fly Front 2

The last five pattern pieces will need to be interfaced. In this lesson, I will share tips and tricks to help you in the fusing process. Once everything is cut out, I will move on to sewing.

Stitching: Darts, Pockets, and Fly Front 3

It's time to finalise the stitching process! Here, I will demonstrate how to attach the fly front and a zip.

Stitching: Legs and Waistband 1

To end this unit, I will model how to sew the waistband pieces together, and then stitch the waistband to the trousers.

Stitching: Legs and Waistband 2

As promised, now I will move on to adding the buttonhole and hemming the trouser legs.

The Welt Back Pocket and Belt Loops

In this lesson, I will show you how to add five belt loops to your waistline, with overhanging tabs. Then, you will see how to achieve a welt back pocket.