If you are just exploring sewing as a hobby, it is perfectly fine to not own a sewing machine. Meet me at one of the local sewing studios I partner with and you can try out a basic machine during your Introductory session.

If you want better fabrics, fit, color and style choices then YES it is so worth it! If you decide you cannot invest the time in constructing your own, learning sewing basics and garment construction principles will make you a better consumer and provide a good knowledge baseline when working with a professional tailor or dressmaker to create your dream garment or wardrobe. The fashion world is fraught with environmental and human rights issues. Custom sewing is a way to combat some of the damage the fashion industry has caused over the last few decades. Whether creating a new garment from scratch, re-working, simply mending or altering existing garments in your closet, custom sewing is the most sustainable way to create your dream wardrobe.

We will decide together on the most appropriate projects for your skill level and interests. My priority is on making sure you are building your skills in a relaxed, fun environment.

Home decor items (pillow covers, placemats, table cloths, pet beds, curtains,) and simple handbags are great projects to learn sewing basics. These projects are typically easier than garment sewing because you are working primarily with straight edges and there is no fitting of human (or animal) bodies.

My openings for lessons are fairly flexible. Let’s connect and see what will work for you.

I am fairly flexible with my rates and sessions. We can work out a schedule and payment options that work for you. I work with many existing students on an ad hoc basis, such as when they are stuck on a construction technique or need assistance with fitting a pattern. If we are new to each other however, the Introductory session is the way to go, as we can determine if our parterning would be a “good fit”.

I have done custom work for fashion shows, and individual clients. While it’s not out of the question, my current priority is on sharing my knowledge and renewing garment making as an artform as well as a professional craft. Our clothing, having primarily been made overseas by taking advantage of low wage (or even yes, enslaved) workers has been devalued. In turn, the skill of sewing has been devalued. Americans are not used to paying a few hundred dollars for a basic suit jacket or dress and so I prefer to direct my energy to the “artisans-in-waiting” whose value will be realized when the false fashion economy eventually implodes.