Starting a beginners dressmaking course and need a pattern recommendation

[fortyfifty]

I'm starting a 10 week evening class in dressmaking - leveled at beginners or near beginners. I have dabbled with sewing when I was younger and had my mum on hand to help. I would like to be able to make top and dresses and what I hope to get out of the course is to learn how do do darts, zips, button holes and simple sleeves. We're told to take our own pattern along. Can anyone recommend something that would be good for a beginner but gives me the option to learn some useful skills?

Thank you.

Have you tried looking in Hobbycraft? As far as I’m aware they sell dressmaking patterns that have the skill level on it (I did 2 dressmaking courses back in 2017 & 2018).

Thanks. That is useful to know about the paterrns having a skill rating.

Some patterns have easy written on the packet.

my advice would be to choose something you would wear. It’s often recommended to start with a skirt, but I don’t wear skirts so I started with a tunic. Simplicity 4149

Have a look at the Foldline website - you can search for whatever type pattern you want (dress, top, skirt...) by sewing level. They do all the Big 4 pattern companies and also loads of independents so you will find something good! Minerva also has a good selection. If you've got 10 weeks on your course then that's definitely enough time to do a great dress with pockets, zips etc - good luck!

I always recommend Tessuti patterns - their clothes are pretty simple to sew but look great. Tiily & the Buttons have plenty of patterns aimed at beginners plus some more intermediate options when you build your confidence.

If you have Instagram, check out the #memademay hashtag to see people modelling clothes they've made. You can also search the pattern number with a hashtag in front (eg #simplicity2255 is one I did recently).