As we teach by individual attention you can commence at any time.

Fashion Design is the course where you learn how to design and make your own patterns with sewing included. You will first learn how to make simple patterns to your own measurements after which you cut out and sew up the garment. Dressmaking is the course where you learn how to make up a commercial pattern. No design or pattern making involved.

Application can be made by completing the application form on our website, after which an interview with portfolio is arranged.

You may visit any day by appointment. We’d be happy to show you around.

For the Diploma course. 17 years to mature . 
For summer courses, 15 years to mature.

You need to show an aptitude for drawing; exploring and developing ideas and experimentations with colour and texture through sketchbooks and photographs. Demonstrate to us a love and desire to work with materials and fabrics, as evidenced in any relevant creative pursuits like drawing, sewing, embroidery, etc. We’re also looking for an enthusiastic appreciation of the fashion industry.

Once a student begins their block of classes they must be taken in succession. Regrettably, missed classes cannot be made up for any reason In certain circumstances the office may allow for absence if agreed at the time of booking, thereafter we ask that students do not request to carry forward classes as this may cause embarrassment.

You will be able to gain an insight into what is involved in the full/part-time Fashion Design Diploma course if you take the one or three month Short, Intensive, Trial Course in Fashion Design. Alternatively, if you are working during the day, it would be helpful for you to join one of the shorter introductory courses, held in the evenings or Saturday afternoons. Summer holiday day courses are another good opportunity.

Fashion Design course: Set square 28cm on longest side, pencils and sharpener, fabric, tape measure, dressmaking pins, fabric scissors, paper scissors, sewing needles, threads, seam ripper and any other requirements of the pattern, e.g. a zip, lining, embellishment, etc. Dressmaking course: Commercial pattern to your nearest measurements, fabric, tape measure, dressmaking pins, fabric scissors, paper scissors, sewing needles. threads, seam ripper, and any other requirements of the pattern, e.g. a zip, lining etc

These vary. Normally two or three Inter-college Fashion Design competitions per year.

No. We will teach you. You can be a complete beginner.

Students are all at different levels and are taught individually in small groups.

Why not take the short intensive course before making the bigger commitment to the full course or alternately you can join one of the other shorter options on offer.

No. We have Bernina sewing machines and over-lockers.

There are a number of suppliers but all our machines are from Bernina Electronic Machine Centre. A registered student at the Grafton Academy will obtain a discount from Bernina who will provide a full back up service.

McCall, Butterick & Vogue Patterns can be bought online at www.sewdirect.com or www.simplicity.com

If you already know how to sew, choose a more advanced pattern of a suit or coat and we will show you how to give it that professional touch.

We accept Visa, Master Card, cash or cheque.