Current Offerings

Workshops

Sewing Machine Basics

Wednesday, May 27, 6-8pm

In this two-hour introduction to sewing with a machine, you’ll learn how to thread the machine, select stitches, choose and change a sewing machine needle, change presser feet, and more! We’ll also practice sewing corners and curves, and finishing seams with a zigzag stitch.

The workshop cost is $50. 

Register here.

Classes

Absolute Beginner Sewing Series: Sewing for Thrifters
Sundays, 2-4pm
4 sessions: June 7, 14, 21, 28
$180

Thrift shopping is a fabulous way to find unique, high quality, and affordable clothing, and to avoid buying into fast fashion. With some basic sewing skills, you can get even more joy, wearability, and longevity from secondhand clothing. In this 4-session series geared toward absolute beginners, you’ll learn:

  • How to use a sewing machine

  • Where and how to buy/find a sewing machine, including what to look for in a secondhand machine

  • How to sew and finish a seam, and repair a ripped seam

  • How to hem and crop with functional and professional-looking finishes

  • How to work with a variety of fabrics, and shop the thrift store for fabric.

You’ll also have the opportunity to practice what you learn on clothing you bring in.

Register here.

Multi-level Sewing Series: Big Beachy Tote
Thursdays, 6-8pm
6 sessions: May 14 - June 18
$240

Sew a big tote you can show off at the beach or wherever your summer adventures take you! We’ll practice sewing with heavy fabrics, selecting and applying interfacing, and (depending on participant interest) adding piping, bias tape, and/or zippers. This class can accommodate sewists of different skill levels, including absolute beginners.

Choose a pattern based on your sewing level and learning goals, such as:
Beginner: Atelier Brunette Le Sac de Plage
A little more challenging: Modern Sewing Co Away tote or In the Folds Hove Tote

Register here.

Intermediate Garment Sewing Series: Button-Up Shirt
Sundays, 11am-1pm
7 sessions: May 17-June 28 (no class memorial day weekend)
$280
Have you dreamed of sewing your own button-up shirts or jackets? In this series for intermediate and adventurous beginner sewists, you’ll learn how to sew buttons and buttonholes, a collar with collar stand, and sleeve placket. We’ll discuss lengthening and shortening sleeves and torso. You may use a button-up shirt pattern of your choosing.
Pattern recommendations: Helen’s Closet Cameron Button Up  (Unisex) Closet Core Jenna Shirt and Shirtdress, or Modern Sewing Co. Overshirt or Unisex Shirt

Register here.

Spring FAFO group(s)

This is a multi-level practice group for sewists, with a focus on experimentation, co-learning, and progress over perfection.

The point of FAFO is to:

  • Challenge yourself to try a sewing project or technique that is outside of your comfort zone.

  • Troubleshoot issues with and source ideas from a small group of fellow sewists.

  • Banish procrastination and provide accountability: commit to finishing a “work in progress,” or start a project that’s been lingering on your “to do” list. 

  • Join a supportive community of fellow sewists.

The cost for FAFO groups is $20/hour ($40 per 2-hour session). Groups will be formed based on availability, preferred meeting frequency, and, shared interests where possible :)

Please fill out this form if you are interested in a FAFO group.

Private Lessons

If the above classes don’t fit your schedule, or you prefer a more customized approach, I offer one-on-one lessons for $50/hour, or private lessons for two people at $75/hour. Please email me at: chicommunitysewing@gmail.com to inquire.