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