fashion lab: learn-to-sew series

with MAKE founder diana rupp, author of SEW: the sew everything workshop

New York Magazine 2009
“BEST OF NEW YORK: SEWING”

seven 2-hour classes // $500 + supplies

(if you’d like to work out a payment plan, please send us an email. we’re happy to work something out with you!)

103 Wed Mar 14 06:30 pm – 08:30 pm
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104 Tue Apr 17 06:30 pm – 08:30 pm
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by popular demand: a 3-part learn-to-sew series that teaches all the basics of fashion sewing in one easy package!

the plan is to meet for two hours once a week for seven weeks. this structured curriculum is offered for those of you who want an intensive and progressive introduction to the world of fashion sewing, with a focus on:

  • how to read (and successfully follow!) a commercial pattern
  • layout and cutting fabric the right way
  • developing good machine sewing skills and working habits
  • professional seam finishing and pressing techniques
  • the ability to install an invisible zipper with complete confidence
  • making simple adjustments to patterns for a perfect fit
  • the ins-and-outs of lining a garment
  • and handsewing skills for couture-quality hems!

note on sewing skills: if you’re more or less comfortable threading a sewing machine, you’re ready for this class. if you’ve never worked on a sewing machine, or don’t remember how to (which is not uncommon) then you’ll need to take an intro to sewing machine before starting fashion lab. (if you sign up for the intro to sewing machine and the fashion lab at the same time, you”ll get the intro class free, an $80 value.)

if you have any questions about your skill level, please refer to the intro class description (click on link above) or send us an email. we’ll be happy to advise you!

  • fashionlab-02
  • tokyo-tie-bag-02
  • secretary-skirt-02
  • make-a-dress-low-res

part I: tokyo tie bag

from SEW: sew everything workshop
one 2-hour class

take your basic machine threading and sewing skills up a notch by learning how to cut and layout a pattern, pivot, stitch around curves and make a fancy french seam. the end result? a super cute bag that’s an ideal gift, and it only takes 2 hours to stitch! (click on the link above to see it or check out p. 170 of the book.)

part 2: sewing I: make a skirt

three 2-hour classes

ready to get started with your first “real” garment? we’ll show you how to make a cute and very wearable straight OR pencil skirt–it’s your choice!–from start to finish. you’ll shop for fabric and gather a basic sewing kit together before class, and then be taught how to layout, cut, and follow a commercial-style pattern, as well as basic sewing techniques like darts, seam finishing, installing an invisible zipper and how to handstitch a couture-quality hem. elementary tailoring tricks will also be demonstrated and we can adjust the pattern to fit your body if need be.

part 3: sewing II: girly go to dress

from SEW: sew everything workshop
three 2-hour classes

an original design by make workshop founder diana rupp: the girly go to dress! review and improve upon all the skills and techniques taught in the previous workshops from staystitching to darts to the invisible zipper, plus you’ll learn to install a completely finished bodice. the best part? you’ll know how to make many more after the class is over and your wardrobe will be complete!