Author: LucyP

Do you have a sewing machine that’s collecting dust? Or have a pile of clothes that need a few simple alterations? Or have you always wanted to make your clothes from scratch? Or maybe you’ve been wanting to take your sewing skills to the next level?

In this 8 episode series, participants will take a hands-on approach to learning to sew! The series will start with providing a strong foundation in basic sewing skills- learning to thread a sewing machine, understanding seam allowance, testing a variety of stitch styles, and more! Then the series will advance into more complex skills through the assistance of experienced instructors. Participants are encouraged to stack episodes together to build their own desired curriculum or join us for all episodes!

In episodes 4-6, the class will begin by covering a set of unique
“Sewing Techniques”- these are sewing topics that are critical to making clean and professional looking garments! The second half of these classes are structured to provide participants with time to work on their own desired project. This is a great opportunity to tackle a bigger or first sewing project under the guidance and support of a team of instructors.

So if you’ve been dreaming of remaking a favorite dress or maybe you thrifted a cool blanket that you want to turn into a jacket- learn more and register today!

Restrictions:

• For Episodes 4-7, we ask that you have either already completed Generator’s Sewing Certification training or have attended Episode 1 of the series.
• 16+, Anyone under 18 requires a parent or guardian to sign a waiver of liability when registering.

Materials: 

• All materials will be provided for Episodes 1-3 & 8
• Participants will be expected to bring their own materials for their desired projects in episodes 4-6

Have your own sewing machine at home and want to learn on it?

Please let us know at [email protected] before registering! Our class size is limited by the number of machines we have available, but if someone brings their own we can open up additional spaces for those without their own machine.

Episode 1: Learning the Basics

Tuesday, January 13th, 6:00-9:00pm

or (this episode is offered twice, you do not need to attend both)

Tuesday, January 20th, 6:00-9:00pm

In episode one of Sewing 101, you will be provided with hands-on instruction on how to operate a household grade sewing machine. The workshop will cover:

• Identifying parts of the machine
• Winding a bobbin
• Threading the machine
• Changing the needle
• Sewing a variety of stitch types
• Adjusting tension, stitch length/width
• Seam allowance
• Troubleshooting tips

Participants will leave with a canvas tote bag and Generator’s Sewing Shop Certification*!

 

 *This Certification means that you are able to come back to Generator to use the sewing shop with either a monthly membership or day pass!

Episode 2: Learning the Embellishments (zippers, pockets, more!)

Tuesday, January 27th, 6:00-9:00pm

In episode two of Sewing 101, you will be walked through a variety of stylistic and practical embellishments that can be added to your designs.

Under the instruction of Lizzie and Lucy, you will create a zipper pouch with an inner pocket that you can use to organize smaller items in the tote bag you made in the previous episode!

The workshop will cover:

• Sewing a zipper into a pouch
• Creating a pocket
• Learning how and when to hand sew
• Introduction to basic pattern assembly

 

Episode 3: Learning How to Pattern

Tuesday, February 10th, 6:00-9:00pm

In episode 3 of Sewing 101, you will ease into the construction and design process by learning how to read, trace, and cut a pattern. Lizzie and Lucy will guide you through how to take your measurements, select a pattern, and construct a garment.

During this workshop, we will have hands-on activities to understand the construction process and have an opportunity for you to look at sample pieces created by the instructors. The workshop will end with a brainstorming and questions session for you to begin picking your first project.

The workshop will cover:

• Taking measurements
• Reading a pattern
• Tracing an existing garment
• Basic pattern alterations
• Constructing a garment

 

Episode 4: Sewing Techniques- Seams & Stitches

Tuesday, February 24th, 6:00-9:00pm

In episode 4 of Sewing 101, you will learn…

• Tips for sewing straight seams
• Finishing techniques- intro to the serger, overlocking raw edges, pinking shears
• Uses of a blind stitch
• Basic handstitching techniques
  • Running stitch
  • Backstitch
  • Fell Stitch

Participants will also spend half of the class beginning to work on a project of their own choice. You will be provided support and guidance from the instructor as well as access to the tools at Generator.

You will be expected to bring in the fabric for your project, Generator will not be providing materials for that portion of class.

Episode 5: Sewing Techniques- Shaping

Tuesday, March 10th, 6:00-9:00pm

In episode 5 of Sewing 101, participants will explore different ways to create shape and fit within their garments. We will cover examples of…

• Darts
• Pleats
• Gathers
• Sewing Curved Lines

Understand these sewing techniques will allow you to create more tailored and advanced designs as well as tailor existing garments to fit you better!

Participants will also spend half of the class beginning to work on a project of their own choice. You will be provided support and guidance from the instructor as well as access to the tools at Generator.

You will be expected to bring in the fabric for your project, Generator will not be providing materials for that portion of class.

 

Episode 6: Tailoring and Upcycling

Tuesday, March 24th, 6:00-9:00pm

In episode 6 of Sewing 101, participants will learn basic concepts and principles behind how to upcycle clothes! Whether you have a stash of old t-shirts you want to repurpose or you’ve thrifted a cool piece of fabric we can give new life to material through upcycling.

Many times upcycling can be as simple as altering an existing garment to fit you better, so we will also be reviewing and practicing basic tailoring techniques.

This workshop will cover:

• How and where to source your materials for upcycling
• Basic tailoring techniques
• Basic mending techniques
• Beginner friendly upcycling projects

At the end of class, you will have time to continue working on the project of your choice that you began in the previous episodes.

 

Episode 7: Laser Labels and Finishing Touches

Tuesday, April 7th, 6:00-9:00pm

In episode 7 of Sewing 101, will have the opportunity to design and laser cut their own custom labels! The class instructors will walk you through how to design your own labels and provide assistance in cutting them out on our Laser Cutters.

Creating laser cut labels is a great way to brands designs, add flare, and mark them as your own!

At the end of class, you will have time to continue working on the project of your choice that you began in the previous episodes and attach your new labels!

 

Episode 8: Intro to Technical Fabrics

Tuesday, April 14th, 6:00-9:00pm

In episode 8, we invite our guest instructor, Greg, to guide you through the process of working with technical fabrics! You will learn tips working with a unique material as well as gain more confidence working with a sewing machine! At the end of this episode, everyone will leave with two unique handmade wallets and the skills to continue their sewing journey!

This is the perfect introduction to sewing for the outdoors enthusiast who wants to create their own bike bags, fix their gear, make a hammock, and so much more!

 

Please contact [email protected] with any questions!

Mats Thureson has been a member at Generator for over 8 year now, but you may not see him working if you stop by during the day. Mats is one of our night owl members, working through the dark hours of the night! We were lucky to connect with him this past week to learn more about his passion for blacksmithing and take a look into how he designs his custom kitchen knives.

Name: Mats Thureson

Current Location: Burlington, VT

Hometown: Hingham, MA

Website: https://www.thorssonblades.com/

Instagram: @thorssonblades

Facebook: Thorsson Blades

Did you grow up in Vermont? If not… What brought you here and why did you stay?

I grew up in Massachusetts. My best friend, Marcus Bretto, moved to Vermont after being offered a job here. I missed my friend and the music we used to write together, so we devised I move up to Vermont so we could continue jamming! We now have a band, Rose Asteroid, and have shared a Generator studio for 7 years!

How did you get interested in bladesmithing, and how did you first start? 

I was one of those kids that felt like he was born in the wrong century. When I was 13 or 14, Marcus invited me over to try forging at his house, and I excitedly joined. We constructed a forge out of reclaimed fire bricks and a hair dryer, and had a great day forging out some rudimentary objects!

When did you know that bladesmithing was something you wanted to pursue more seriously? 

I was hooked from the start, and frankly, I think I saw an avenue to self-worth. I was forging after school and researching metallurgy and history instead of doing homework. In the years after graduation I took classes with master smiths in pattern welding and advanced heat treating, and everything I learned cemented in me the desire to be a legitimate bladesmith in my own eyes. The traditional nature of bladesmithing, the refined creativity I could chase and express, and the idea of the freedom provided by self employment drove me to try to make it as a bladesmith.

What types of knives do you make, and what’s your favorite kind to work on? 

I make many different types of blades, but edged tools for luthiers (stringed instrument makers) and kitchen knives have been my main focus. A constant favorite for me has been pattern welded (Damascus) knives. Making the patterns from nothing, forging them into blades and revealing them at the end of the process is consistently rewarding!

What materials do you like working with, and why? 

I work with a number of high carbon steels. My particular favorites are simple carbon steels like 1095, Japanese white steel #2, and 1084/15n20 for Damascus blades.

Can you walk us through your knife-making process from start to finish? 

I always start with the purpose of the knife, as everything that follows is based on what its job is intended to be. I think about basic dimension parameters like length, height, and thickness. I very seldom draft, because I like to let creativity and natural occurrence guide me as the blade takes form in the forging process. I keep my forge at a separate metal shop where I use heat, hammer, anvil, and the occasional power hammer to shape my blades.

After the basic shape has been forged and straightened, I return to Generator for the rest of the process. I refine the blade profile on the 2×72 belt sander, stopping often to identify high/low spots, kinks in the profile, anything not pleasing to the eye or potentially detrimental to the function of the knife. Once the profile grind is complete, I heat treat the blade in my kiln. Three normalization cycles, quench (usually oil), and a temper cycle. With a properly hardened blade, I go back to the 2×72 and grind the edge bevels in by hand with careful attention to geometry (this determines how well it cuts!).

Once the bevels are ground in, and the weight/symmetry are optimal, I bring it into my studio where the most tedious yet most rewarding part, hand sanding, begins. I sand from 220 grit up to 4000 grit, depending on what texture the knife calls for. That’s a blade completed!

It is then ready to be dressed with a handle, which I will usually co-design and then hand off to Marcus for the extreme high-end blades. Our collaborations present the best we can provide from both disciplines. The blades are given their final sharpening via flattened waterstones after they are mounted in the completed handles.

What are some of the more challenging parts of making a knife? 

The heat treatment can be an anxious moment. I’ve got the process dialed pretty well for the types of steel I use, but there’s always a chance a blade can crack from the stress and then all my previous progress is lost! Oh, and hand sanding. Put on a podcast, because you’re going to be here a while.

What are aspects of the process you really enjoy, or find most rewarding? 

This is a bit contradictory, but hand sanding! Mainly when you get to the end after being extra diligent to get every single previous grit scratch out. Dunking that blade in the etchant (acid used to etch blade) and seeing the Damascus pattern jump out at you, it proves to be worth the effort!

What’s one tool in the shop you couldn’t live without? 

The 2×72 belt grinder is an invaluable tool for the modern knife maker. But for the bladesmith, it’s the forge!

How did you hear about Generator? 

I first came to Generator in 2018, because I was looking on google for places to put some flyers up for bladesmithing classes I wanted to teach. I didn’t know what Generator was, but I was greeted at the door with enthusiasm and given a tour on the spot. I was enchanted!

Was there anything in particular about this space that drew you in? 

A well-kitted metal shop, like-minded innovators and handcraft oriented people, and a 24/7 access studio membership made me sign up immediately. It provided me a way for me to hit the ground running after my move to VT with the little resources I had.

What has your experience been like as a Generator Member? 

Being a member at Generator has been invaluable to my business journey, but also in meeting new friends and learning about new crafts and tools. Things I otherwise would never be exposed to were one conversation or tool training class away, and that kind of exposure is incredibly conducive to broadening one’s horizons.

Are there things about the community or the tools available that allowed you to grow in ways that might not have been possible otherwise? 

As far as the business, Generator has provided ways for me to scale my production in ways that would not be possible on my own without extensive loans. However far more than a means to an end, Generator is a place that you go to share ideas and make friends with people you may otherwise have never met if not for being such an excellent gathering place for makers and creatives. There is always something cool happening!

Have you had any unexpected learning moments from other members here? 

I have! Mainly tricks about CAD modeling and laser engraving. I learned how to use the laser to etch my logo into my knives from a member! There are so many people here eager to share their knowledge if you just ask.

Do you have any advice for anyone thinking about becoming a Generator Member? Any information or tips/tricks that you wish someone would have shared with you? 

If you feel like you want to start a business but it feels too far out of reach, or you need a place to practice your art/craft, or even just want to break out of the standard routine and learn something new, it’s a great idea to be a Generator member. For new members, do not ever be afraid to ask questions! The staff are always happy to work with you to find ways to make something work out, even if it doesn’t initially. Talking to Generator staff, and their dedication and willingness to help their members, has done so much for me. Being an active community member at Generator provides more opportunity the more you participate!

What’s something you haven’t yet explored that you’d really like to learn more about or try? 

Since I became the owner of a computerized temp-controlled heat treating kiln, I’ve been researching high carbon stainless steels and I’m preparing to make blades from those alloys. That’s my current focus, but there are so many other things I want to learn. It will never end, but it’s better that way.

Where do you hope your craft will take you? Do you have any upcoming goals you are hoping to achieve? A dream project you’d like to accomplish? 

I hope to be seen not just as a maker of practical tools, but as an artist as well. My obsession is the marriage of form and function, and I aspire to have the means of exploring the artistic side of bladesmithing.

Any advice for aspiring knife makers? 

To paraphrase Tchaikovsky; you must create, even when you don’t feel like it! Always be moving, and don’t get caught up on small mistakes. Even if you hate how they come out at first, use every piece as a learning experience and just make another, and another, and another. Finally, admit to yourself you will always be a student of your art. It is freeing. Mastery is an egotistical fallacy.

Where can people find or purchase your work?

www.thorssonblades.com is where I put all finished products, and I post about them on my instagram @thorssonblades!

Do you have a sewing machine that’s collecting dust? Or have a pile of clothes that need a few simple alterations? Or have you always wanted to make your clothes from scratch? Or maybe you’ve been wanting to take your sewing skills to the next level?

In this 9 episode series, participants will take a hands-on approach to learning to sew! The series will start with providing a strong foundation in basic sewing skills like learning to thread a sewing machine, understanding seam allowance, testing a variety of stitch styles, and more! Then the series will advance into more complex skills through the assistance of experiences instructors. Participants are encouraged to stack episodes together to build their own desired curriculum or join us for all episodes!

The series includes three episodes that are dedicated to creating your own garment! This is a great opportunity to tackle a bigger sewing project under the guidance and support of a team of instructors. So if you’ve been dreaming of remaking a favorite dress or maybe you thrifted a cool blanket that you want to turn into a jacket- learn more and register today!

Restrictions:

• For Episodes 2-9, we ask that you have either already completed Generator’s Sewing Certification training or have attended Episode 1 of the series.
• 16+, Anyone under 18 requires a parent or guardian to sign a waiver of liability when registering.

Materials: 

• All materials will be provided for Episodes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, & 9
• Participants will be expected to bring their own materials for Episodes 6, 7, 8

Have your own sewing machine at home and want to learn on it?

Please let us know at [email protected] before registering! Our class size is limited by the number of machines we have available, but if someone brings their own we can open up additional spaces for those without their own machine.

Episode 1: Learning the Basics

Tuesday, June 3rd, 5:30-8:30pm

or (this episode is hosted twice, you do not need to attend both)

Thursday, June 5th, 5:30-8:30pm

In episode one of Sewing 101, you will be provided with hands-on instruction on how to operate a house-hold grade sewing machine. The workshop will cover:

• Identifying parts of the machine
• Winding a bobbin
• Threading the machine
• Changing the needle
• Sewing a variety of stitch types
• Adjusting tension, stitch length/width
• Seam allowance
• Troubleshooting tips

Participants will leave with a canvas tote bag and Generator’s Sewing Shop Certification!

 

 

Episode 2: Learning the Embellishments (zippers, pockets, more!)

Tuesday, June 17th, 5:30-8:30pm

In episode two of Sewing 101, you will be walked through a variety of stylistic and practical embellishments that can be added to your designs.

Under the instruction of Lizzie and Lucy, you will create a zipper pouch with an inner pocket that you can use to organize smaller items in the tote bag you made in the previous episode!

The workshop will cover:

• Sewing a zipper into a pouch
• Creating a pocket
• Learning how and when to hand sew
• Introduction to basic pattern assembly

 

 

Episode 3: Learning How to Pattern

Tuesday, July 1st, 5:30-8:30pm

In episode 3 of Sewing 101, you will ease into the construction and design process by learning how to read, trace, and cut a pattern. Lizzie and Lucy will guide you through how to take your measurements, select a pattern, and construct a garment.

During this workshop, we will have hands-on activities to understand the construction process and have an opportunity for you to look at sample pieces created by the instructors. The workshop will end with a brainstorming and questions session for you to begin picking your first project.

The workshop will cover:

• Taking measurements
• Reading a pattern
• Tracing an existing garment
• Basic pattern alterations
• Constructing a garment

 

 

Episode 4: Learning the Industrial Sewing Machine

Tuesday, July 15th, 5:30-8:30pm

In episode 4 of Sewing 101, you will tackle learning the industrial sewing machine. The industrial sewing machine is particularly suited for sewing thick fabric and/or multiple layers. In class, we will be practicing on an industrial Juki, this machine is commonly seen in larger scale garment manufacturing as it provides consistent, high-quality results!

Learning more advanced sewing machines is a great way to expand the types of projects you can create!

The workshop will cover:

• The advantages of the industrial machine
• Difference between a domestic/home-style sewing machine and an industrial machine
• How to wind and load a bobbin
• How to thread an industrial machine
• Troubleshooting tips

Participants will receive certification to utilize Generator’s industrial Juki upon completion of this class.

 

 

 

Episode 5: Learning the Serger

Tuesday, July 29th, 5:30-8:30pm

In episode 5 of Sewing 101, you will be introduced to an advanced sewing machine called a serger. A serger is a specialized sewing machine that can cut your seam allowance, stitch your fabric, and overlock your raw edges all at the same time. These machines allow you to create polished and professional looking garments as well as help prevent fabric from fraying.

The workshop will cover:

• How to thread a serger
• Understanding the uses of the machine
• Troubleshooting tips
• Practice working the machine and threading it

Participants will receive certification to utilize Generator’s sergers upon completion of this class.

 

 

Episode 6: Create Your Own Garment- Day 1

Tuesday, August 12th, 5:30-8:30pm

In episode 6 of Sewing 101, participants will begin to work on a capstone project of their choice. Whether you’ve always wanted to make a denim jacket you once saw or you have a pair of pants you’d like to recreate- our instructors will walk you through the process of creating your own garment from scratch!

This workshop will cover:

• Selecting your pattern size
• Cutting out your pattern
• Reading your pattern
• Understanding how you should cut your pattern out
• Assembling your basic seams

All participants of Episodes 6-8 will receive one FREE day pass​ to utilize Generator’s Sewing Studio during times our Workshop is not in session!

 

 

Episode 7: Create Your Own Garment- Day 2

Thursday, August 14th, 5:30-8:30pm

In episode 7 of Sewing 101, participants will continue working on their capstone project under the guidance and instruction of two instructors! As you begin to assemble your garment, you may have pockets, zippers, ties, bias, etc that need to be added- our team will be able to help you tackle these parts of your project. Additionally, participants will work on finishing their seams professional through the use of specialized machines.

This workshop will cover:

• Assembling embellishments- zippers, pockets, hems, etc
• Creating professional seams with advanced machines
• Making adjustments to garments that are too big or two small
• Troubleshooting tips for garment design
• Troubleshooting tips for machines

All participants of Episodes 6-8 will receive one FREE day pass​ to utilize Generator’s Sewing Studio during times our Workshop is not in session!

 

 

Episode 8: Create Your Own Garment- Day 3

Tuesday, August 19th, 5:30-8:30pm

In episode 8 of Sewing 101, participants will finish working on their capstone garment! We will wrap up with polishing off final touches like hems, top stitching, decorative embellishments, and labels. Each student will receive a laser cut label to sew into their final design, marking it as their own!

This workshop will cover:

• Finishing hems
• Top Stitching
• Decorative details and stitching
• Final adjustments to fit
• Laser Cutting labels

All participants of Episodes 6-8 will receive one FREE day pass​ to utilize Generator’s Sewing Studio during times our Workshop is not in session!

 

 

Episode 9: Learning to Upcycle & Tailor

Tuesday, August 26th, 5:30-8:30pm

In episode 9 of Sewing 101, participants will learn basic concepts and principles behind how to upcycle clothes! Whether you have a stash of old t-shirts you want to repurpose or you’ve thrifted a cool piece of fabric we can give new life to material through upcycling.

Many times upcycling can be as simple as altering an existing garment to fit you better, so we will also be reviewing and practicing basic tailoring techniques.

This workshop will cover:

• How and where to source your materials for upcycling
• Basic tailoring techniques
• Basic mending techniques
• Beginner friendly upcycling projects

We encourage participants to bring materials, clothes, fabric, etc that they have been wishing to upcycle! Our instructor can help to get you started with your project!

 

 

Please contact [email protected] with any questions!