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Garment Sewing
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Sewing Machine Basics
Liesl Gibson
Want some help when it comes to learning your way around a machine? Liesl points out the main components of a sewing machine as well as how to thread the machine and wind a bobbin so you will be ready to dive into the sewing process with confidence.
Presser Feet 101
Natalie Ebaugh
Most sewing machines come with a collection of different presser feet, which can be intimidating and confusing for beginner sewists. Fiber artist and quilter Natalie Ebaugh demystifies these little metal bits and shows you what different feet can do and when you want to use them. Once you learn some presser foot basics, you'll realize how fabulous they are and how they can make your sewing projects go more quickly and easily.
How to Read a Sewing Pattern
Liesl Gibson
Sewing patterns are often a mysterious language unto themselves, but Liesl Gibson is here to demystify the process. In this class, Liesl explains all the components of sewing patterns, including: reading the pattern envelope, taking accurate measurements, fabric recommendations, understanding the guide sheet, working with pattern pieces, and layout and cutting. This class is chock full of tips and best practices so you will be set up to start sewing for yourself.
How to Sew On a Button
Faith Hale
When a button falls off a shirt, it's all too easy to replace the entire garment, but the process of reattaching a button can be simple and empowering. In this quick technique class, learn the most secure method of reattaching a button, ensuring it remains on your garment for as long as you need it to. The first few times will take a bit of focus but like any hand skill, it will get easier each time you try it.
Sewing with Simplicity: Garment Sewing for Beginners
Joy Macdonell
Learning to sew clothes can be intimidating, especially if you’re working with a multi-size pattern. Joy Macdonell of Simplicity Patterns breaks it down for you in this comprehensive course. Learn everything from how to set up your sewing machine and read a pattern to how to create darts, facings and hems—basically, all of the must-know sewing techniques that you'll use over and over again to create your own clothing. This class is the perfect introduction to garment sewing for newbies, and a great way to brush up on your skills if it’s been awhile since you last sewed.
Seam Finishing 101
Cal Patch
Want to know the trick to making professional-looking hand-made clothes? It’s all in the seam finishing. Cal Patch demonstrates ten different ways to finish your seams, most of which can be done using basic sewing tools and materials. She also gives an introduction to finishing seams with a serger, plus trickier techniques like mock Frrench seams and rolled hems. Seam finishing really is a magical skill, extending the life of your hand-made clothing and making them just as lovely on the inside as they are on the outside.
Sew a One Hour Top
Fancy Tiger
Learn how to make the easiest jersey shirt ever with Fancy Tiger Crafts. Dream team Amber and Jaime teach you how to create a “One Hour Top” beginning to end on a sewing machine – but they also show you how to sew the seams with a serger if you so desire. This wardrobe staple is ideal for everyday wear and works up beautifully (and quickly) in a solid knit or a fun print. (Sizes range from 32" - 45" bust.)
Trace a T-shirt, Make a Wardrobe
Improv Sewing
Want to make a custom-fit wardrobe? Instead of using traditional patterns, the Improv Sewing team sews a wardrobe from a single set of pattern pieces made by tracing a well-fitting t-shirt. Sacrifice that favorite tee (the one with a little stain on it) for a closet full of favorite tops, tunics and dresses!
Sewing Machine Maintenance
Fancy Tiger
Gunked-up machines can ruin any sewing experience. Learn how to properly maintain your machine with Jaime from Fancy Tiger Crafts. She demonstrates how to clean and oil a sewing machine, change the light bulb, and troubleshoot problems – she even demonstrates how to adjust tension if your stitches are too loose or too tight. Jaime works on a variety of sewing machine models in this class, and also provides tips on what to look for if you’re shopping for a new machine.