Make your own swimsuit under the expert tuition of The Swimming Seamstress, Amanda Bowden!

Sew Your Own Swimsuit Workshop - 2 Days 

Location - Loch Insh Outdoor Centre

Time - 9:30am - 4:30pm

Cost - £295 per person (places limited) 

Join us for a fun and informative two-day workshop where you can learn to sew your own swimsuit! Led by experienced sewing tutor Amanda Bowden (The Sewing Seamstress), this workshop is perfect for beginner sewists who are eager to dive into the world of swimwear sewing. Amanda will prepare a personalised pattern for you to use and keep, so that you can continue to make as many of your own swimsuits as you like! 

This weekend will be based in our own workshop space, next to the waters of  Loch Insh, in the Cairngorms National Park. As well as sewing, you will get the chance to swim with Alice each day. 

There will be hot drinks and cake throughout the weekend, as well as warming lunches served in the cosy and welcoming Boathouse Restaurant.

Amanda Bowden is a highly experienced sewing tutor and founder of Felixstowe Sewing School, which she established in 2013 after 15 years teaching Textiles Technology in schools. Her passion for sewing and teaching has led her to write tutorials for magazines and blogs, run Vintage Dressmaking festivals, and more recently, specialise in teaching swimwear construction.

Inspired by her own journey into open water swimming, Amanda began designing and making her own colourful, well-fitting costumes when she couldn’t find options that suited her as a plus-size swimmer. This quickly developed into a popular series of workshops where she now teaches others how to sew their own swimming costumes—combining technical skill, creativity, and body confidence.

Amanda also runs the Facebook group Sewing for Swimming, where she shares advice and inspiration with a growing community of like-minded makers.

Duration: Two days

Skill Level: Enthusiastic beginner sewists upwards. Minimum requirement is that you know how to use a sewing machine.

Materials: Amanda will provide your pattern and two days of instruction. Machines are available to use, although you are encouraged to bring your own machine and equipment. Amanda will advise on the type of fabric and other materials to buy. 

Food/Drinks: Lunch, ample tea/coffee and homemade cakes/biscuits will be provided.

Swimming: There will also be an opportunity to dip/swim at Loch Insh each day if you want to. 

Spaces are limited, so be sure to register early to secure your spot!