This set of classes is designed for a beginner sewist to get comfortable with sewing techniques, while making useful items for home use (and gifting!) These classes are suited for both hand and machine sewing. Classes can be taken individually, or as a set, for a discount!
This series of classes build on each class before it and are taught in a series and/or Drop in option.
- Coasters – skills: pattern making, measuring, straight stitching, corner pivots, clipping corners, turning, ironing, whipstitching.
- Double Sided Napkins – Skills: Cut and sew a set of napkins- pattern making, measuring, cutting, straight stitching, corner pivots, clipping corners, turning, ironing, topstitching.
- Apron – Skills: Pattern making, measuring, cutting, straight stitching, curved stitching, topstitching. Optional depending on apron style- pocket application, gathering, turning out tubes, applying bias binding.
Look to the classes page for current days and times scheduled.
Sewing Classes- Skills Level List by Class
Absolute Beginners Machine– Learn to thread your machine, wind a bobbin, sew a straight line, pivot a corner, sew a curved line, start and stop a seam, beginner ironing tips, fabric terminology. Also discuss machine care and maintenance, machine manuals, online resources. Projects- work on paper guides and small pouch.
Absolute Beginners Hand-Sewing Skills– thread and needle information, running stitch, backstitch, combo stitch, hems, whipstitch, beginner ironing tips, fabric terminology. Project- small pouch.
Absolute Beginners Mending- Let’s learn how to keep our clothes in good repair! This class will demo and discuss repairing seams, popped stitches, hems, adding patches, tightening buttonholes and more! We will also discuss laundry and stain treatments. This class is mainly focused on handsewing techniques.
Make a Set of Coasters– pattern making, measuring, straight stitching, corner pivots, clipping corners, turning, ironing, whipstitching.
Make Double Sided Napkins– Cut and sew a set of napkins- pattern making, measuring, cutting, straight stitching, corner pivots, clipping corners, turning, ironing, topstitching.
Make an Apron– Create a 1 piece or 2 piece apron with or without pockets. Pattern making, measuring, cutting, straight stitching, curved stitching, topstitching. Optional depending on apron style- pocket application, gathering, turning out tubes, applying bias binding.
Make a Pillow Cover– Create a slip cover for an existing pillow- pattern making, measuring, cutting, straight stitching, corner pivots, clipping corners, turning, ironing, topstitching.
Make a Sewing Mat and Accessories– Create a padded mat, machine slipcover and tool carry kit. Pattern making, measuring, cutting, straight stitching, corner pivots, ironing, topstitching, applying bias binding, pocket applications.
Understanding Patterns– In this class we will look at commercial patterns and discuss how to decipher all the details! We will learn about fabric, yardage, grainlines, nap, and figuring out the best pattern layout to maximize fabric usage. We will also talk about mockups, and why they are so important.
Wrap Skirt-Let’s make a cute wrap skirt in cotton! With pocket options and applied trimming- this is a fun beginner project! We will also make a kerchief and/or hair tie from leftover material
Make a Set of Bandana Bibs–
Denim Repairs– This class is focused on several repair options for denim- including patches, section replacing, and fabric rebuilding for worn through spots. These repairs can be sewn by machine or by hand
Make a Caftan– Let’s make a super comfy and fun caftan! Using a vintage pattern, we will adjust the pattern to fit our body, including making a mockup, then sew our own lovely caftan- suitable for summer in a lightweight cotton lawn, winter in a cotton flannel, or for a luxurious option-something sparkly! And of course there will be pockets! You should already have basic/beginner sewing skills for this class- this project can be sewn by hand or machine!
Make a Witch Hat- A personal favorite- pointy hats are suitable for year round wear in my opinion! In this class we will draft a pattern consisting of 2 pieces- the tip, or pointed piece, and the brim. Using heavy duty interfacing, felt and fabric, we will create a charming witch hat to fit you! Bonus- this project can usually be made with leftover fabric from the caftan project, if you would like a matching set!
Make a Fancy Stocking– Create a lined stocking in the shape of a high heeled boot. Following a pattern, cutting & sewing curves measuring, cutting straight stitching, corner pivots, clipping corners, turning, ironing, & topstitching.
Zippers– Ah, zippers! The bane of many sewists- let’s get into some ways to make sewing a zipper into a garment or other item easier! We will demo and discuss ways to work with a variety of zipper types and insertion techniques. These techniques can be sewn with hand and sewing machine skills- sometimes both!
Specialty Classes –
Custom Corset– This is an advanced class, for sewists who are familiar with sewing patterns, and are ready for a challenge! We will start with body measurements, and a basic corset pattern. We will create a mockup, make adjustments, transfer changes to the pattern, and then cut and build to create a custom fit corset just for you!
Are you interested in Millinery aka Hat Making? Want to explore Leatherworking? I have plenty of experience and would love to discuss creating custom classes for you, or a group!
Couture Guided Instruction
This is a custom built series of classes, where I guide you as you create your dream garment! You will build your skills in a safe and supported way, where you can ask me all the questions, and see demos and examples of the different steps and techniques. These classes can be in person, online or a combination of both.