HOORIA Goodarzi
INTRODUCTORY PATTERN MAKING & BEGINNERS DRESSMAKING
Hooria has been with CAFA for two terms, starting in our Introductory Pattern Making & Garment Construction course and then our Beginners Dressmaking class. Her skills have grown exponentially in this time and she’s made a beautiful dress and a skirt — both of which she loves to wear. We chatted with her about her sewing journey, starting with her first impressions that maybe her skills weren’t at the right level to start classes.
Spoiler alert: of course they were :) Everyone is welcome at CAFA and the rapid progress that students make is so rewarding.
CAFA: How did you learn to sew?
H: I started sewing in high school making an apron and a circle skirt. I loved it so much that I even toyed with the idea of becoming a fashion designer. But life had other plans — I ended up completing a degree in pure mathematics and now work as a financial planner. Sewing remained my much-loved hobby, but I stuck to the basics — tote bags and curtains, anything with a straight line — until I discovered CAFA.
Cotton is a great choice for beginners because it’s easy to handle, holds its shape well and sews smoothly without slipping or stretching.
CAFA: What inspired you to start sewing lessons?
H: I’ve always loved visiting fabric stores and imagining the designs I could create, but I struggled to fit or finish garments. After my second daughter, I attempted a breastfeeding-friendly top but got stuck on buttonholes — it’s still in my sewing box. Frustrated, I searched for classes that would fit with my busy life and could teach me the why and how of pattern making and sewing, which YouTube couldn’t deliver. That’s when I found CAFA.
CAFA: What were your expectations about starting sewing classes?
H: It’s been a turning point in my life. I was waitlisted for two terms before a Saturday opening came up* at CAFA and I've been attending for the past two terms. I really look forward to Saturdays and the mental space, the class gives me. I can focus and have a break from my children. I'm taking a break next term to consolidate my skills, but I'll be back! The flexibility of the course makes it easy to pause and pick up where I left off
Learning to sew from commercial (purchased) patterns requires you to understand the techniques they use. Our friends at Tessuti are a popular choice for patterns as their instructions are very detailed and include photographs.
CAFA: How would you rate your skill level when you joined CAFA?
H: I had a basic understanding of patterns but was I was a beginner. I wondered whether I was good enough for CAFA classes but found that everyone was welcome — regardless of their skills — and the teachers are all patient and experienced. I hope my story will encourage others like me to give it a try.
CAFA: What did you hope to learn when you started?
H: I see pattern making as a science, not just a life skill. I want to understand not only how patterns are made but why techniques are used. My goal is to improve my sewing finishes, master technical skills, understand commercial patterns and replicate my favourite garments
A test garment (or toile) eliminates guesswork for both beginners and advanced sewists.
CAFA: How has your time with us improved your sewing & pattern making skills?
H: I’ve learned to read and understand commercial patterns, use notches and markings, and apply techniques with confidence. Pins and tacking are now my best friends, and I’ve discovered the importance of measuring for accuracy. When I take my time, the final garment is wearable! I also have a much better eye for fabric when shopping. Next, I want to work on fitting and adjustments — I’m still sewing loose-fitting clothes but would love to progress to fitted garments like suits and jackets for work.
CAFA: How have you applied the skills you’ve learnt – what projects have you completed?
H: So much!
Pattern making and sewing a skirt block
Replicating a favourite top with butterfly sleeves
Using a commercial pattern to make a dress
Couture sewing techniques for dressmaking
Handling difficult to sew light weight polyester fabric