A MUM has launched a new online course which helps users to create their own traditional garment.

The shalwar kameez is the Asian-style dress commonly worn by both men and women in the Asian community.

Mum-of-two Rizwana Matadar, is from Blackburn but now lives in Bolton.

She said she came up with the idea in the hope of inspiring people to rediscover the lost art of dress making.

The new online course named Because I Said Sew can also can be downloaded as an app and helps users make female shalwar kameez outfits.

Rizwana said: “At the beginning of lockdown I had a lot of time on my hands to sit and reflect generally and I realised that a lot of our unique Asian culture has gone.

“The days where we actually go out and buy fabric and take them to a tailor to sew are long forgotten. In my day everyone wore clothes that were sewn and tailored.”

“Many young people are engrossed in phones and iPads and I thought this would be a great way of encouraging people to learn a new skill.

“Some families are still sewing. Then, we have a lot of people who want to learn how to sew but just don’t know how to get into it.

"They have not seen anything online that is simple and clear.”

Since launching Rizwana said she has received positive responses. She said: “I spent day and night developing the course and I am encouraged to see a lot of people already subscribing.”

Rizwana felt modest Asian-style dresses were easily available ready-made meaning these skills passed down from generation just evaporated almost overnight.

“The modules start at beginner level and are jammed packed full of video tutorials of pattern cutting and sewing making the whole process simple and easy.

“I have included bonus lessons and cheat sheets to help you in your journey

"This is an online course where you will go through all the lessons from the comfort of your own home in your own time.

“This is also the first ever shalwar kameez programme to be taught online.”

The course’ is designed to be completed in seven weeks, with modules such as how to cut out the kameez and how to sew up the shalwar.

To find out more see www.becauseisaidsew.co.uk