Testimonials
In one year I have learned much more than I thought I would. I have learned how to pattern make from scratch with confidence and my skill has improved tremendously. Small classes mean we get more “teacher time” on an individual basis. Even though English is my second language I have been able to keep up with the class, the tutors always ensure I know the terminology.
When I first started at the age of thirteen, I could hardly sew in a straight line and I can still remember the feeling of bemusement I got looking at the design lines on a skirt pattern.
I started weekly lessons (starting off with a very adventurous velvet skirt that ended up reduced to the dress up box at home!) and at the end of my first year won the Young Designer of the Year competition, which was one of the most exciting nights of my life at that point.
I continued the teenage sewing classes until 2009 when I decided to enroll in the Patternmaking and Garment Construction course, at that time a two year diploma course. I wanted to be able to make patterns for my designs and gain an in depth knowledge of tailoring and lingerie, among other sewing techniques. I found the course so rewarding, and am now completely confident in creating patterns and garments for any body shape.
In 2010 I was asked to teach a weekly teenage class, and I found it so inspiring and fulfilling to see the girls fall in love with sewing just as I did when I started three years previously.
I am now working as a patternmaker and dressmaker for two tailoring and design companies and am also in the process of designing a range for my own label, ShylaRose.
I am so proud to say that I have learnt my skills at NZ Academy of Fashion – more than just a sewing school, it’s a fun and caring environment where one can be creative among friends, guided by the incredibly skilled and nurturing teachers.
Wow what an experience Saturday night was (Fashion Show 2011), well done to you and your team. Thank you so much for the amazing Diva 2nd prize – the book is so inspirational, I can’t put it down! and the dressmaking tools are just wonderful.
All the students worked so hard and their garments and styling so fabulous to see – everyone looked so fantastic out on the runway. Terry & Kim are totally fabulous tutors and what I’ve learnt from them this year is mind-boggling – I’m totally loving being able to create my own patterns! Roll on next year and more learning…
Thanks again
I can’t thank NZAF and their tutors enough for the wonderful experience I have had over the past year at the Academy.
I arrived with virtually no sewing experience and a lot of nerves. I was worried my lack of experience would cause me to struggle through the Diploma. I couldn’t have been more wrong!
NZAF and their tutors made learning a very pleasant and rewarding experience.
The tutors have lots of excellent tips and tricks to make our garments look fabulous.