SEWING CLASSES


  1. ➡     Class prices are for single three-hour sessions. Prices are $45 plus $8-12 materials fee. 

  2. ➡     Project classes are two hours and $25. plus materials.

  3. ➡     Check the calendar for exact materials fee.   

  4. ➡     All classes have a separate materials fee, giving you the choice to bring your own or purchase fabric here.  I have many small scraps available to use in class at no charge.

  5. ➡     Please reserve your space in advance by phone or e-mail, or drop in the store to sign up.



Sewing A

This class teaches basic sewing machine operation including threading, winding bobbins, playing with different stitches on the machine and learning about seam allowances. You’ll sew straight and curved lines, get the 411 on how to finish seams and make a quick machine hem. Topstitching finishes off this lesson and gives you some practice sewing a perfect straight line. 


You will go home with a medium sized flat-lined tote bag with woven cotton straps. If you’re ahead of the game you can add pockets, buttons or other embellishments to the bag before sewing the sides. 


So now you can go through your closet and conquer those hemlines, make a scarf, table linens and even make more of these great tote bags you just did!  Many miles of thread can be travelled now that you know how to sew a straight line.




Sewing B  


If you are a beginner, and Sewing A is a no-brainer, we start the class warm-up exercise reviewing seam allowances and I’ll show you different types of seams and seam finishes.


Now it’s time to install a zipper.  In this class I do a quick demonstration on three different zipper installations.  After that, you will make your own cute little zippered bag in any size you desire.  Most popular are: coin purses, make-up bags and pencil pouches.  So you pick-it, we’ll learn how to ‘zip-it’ and off you go with a new sewing lesson under your belt and a great little (insert what you made here) that you are very proud of.  You’ll go home wanting to make one for each purse and everyone else.  This is a great use for those fabulous fabric scraps and take advantage of my $1 zippers.  How’s that for zipping up a new thing!



Sewing C

Intermediate: Understanding Commercial Patterns (Bring in your own easy pattern.) This class is an orientation on choosing, reading and understanding patterns. Learn how to measure yourself and make simple alterations on the pattern before you cut to insure a good fit. We will work on cutting out your project and have specific demonstrations on construction. The class time will not be enough to complete a garment. You can continue your project in another Sewing C class, or complete your project at home after receiving instruction in this class. We carry a small selection of easy and basic sewing patterns including McCalls, Butterick, Simplicity and Reflections. Bring to class: Sewing kit, an easy pattern, fabric, lining if desired, and thread to match.



Sewing Workshop

Intermediate: Open Sewing (Lecture on construction repeats regularly). If you’re comfortable with knowing the ABC’s of beginning sewing, you’re now ready to take on the art of sewing. This class is an 'ongoing' workshop and will cycle each month, offering a different lecture each as follows:

•1. Facings, cuffs & collars.

•2. Zippers & buttonholes.

•3. Casings, waistbands & hems.

•4. Sleeve types and their construction.

After the 1/2 hour or so demonstration, we will do 'open sewing', which is whatever you want to bring in to sew. You will receive guidance and instruction for the remainder of class and can ask questions to learn as you go. Bring to class: Sewing kit, a project to sew, a pattern of choice, fabric, thread to match and other items needed for your specific project.



Project Classes   (for those who know their machine) Projects vary according to season and what’s new and happenin’ in the sewing world. For the home, you can learn to make perfect decorative pillows, including installing an invisible zipper. You will also learn about inserting piping or cording in pillows, pillow shams and table runners. You can hem tablecloths, place mats and napkins using our overlock machine (serger). We will also have fun making tassels and covering buttons. 

Fashion apparel and accessories will also be presented in project classes, such as zippered pencil and/or cosmetic bags, iPod cases, book covers, and embellishing ready-made garments.




Make a request to make special projects or ask about other classes!  Send me a note:  sewjoe2@aim.com