DAY CLASSES: Although most of our classes are held in the evening, we may be able to work with you to schedule a day class. Please contact Bia for more information.
Beginner (new to sewing)
Almost Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate Plus
Advanced
Please select a class that is at your sewing level. When class begins, you will not have time to figure out how to use your machine and how to sew. If your machine is not working well, we recommend that you have it serviced. A great sewing machine makes sewing more enjoyable.
If you are interested sewing during the day, just call (936-3656) or email to reserve your spot. This is a great way for kids to get some sewing done. Attendees must know how to sew. Fees depend on the amount of assistance provided.
Beginning Sewing: The Basics
No sewing skills needed.
If you are totally new to sewing or haven't sewn in years, this workshop is for you. The Basics covers the basics of sewing - including the parts of a sewing machine, the necessary notions, an introduction to utility stitches, and a review of rotary cutting techniques. We'll go at a relaxed pace so you won't get overwhelmed with all the new information. You'll make a pillow case, a tote bag, and a drawstring bag and will leave with a great foundation to build on.
TOTALENROLLMENT: 4
DATE: Tuesdays: September 21st, 28th, October 5th, and October 12th
TIME: 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm (sometimes until 9 pm)
TOTAL DURATION: 8 hours
INSTRUCTOR: Bia Bernum
COST: $85 - includes binder with 40-page workbook, some fabric and materials, and use of sewing machine.
SUPPLY LIST: If you have a machine, bring it and the manual to the first class. Supply list will be handed out in first class.
Develop your sewing skills and improve your confidence in this four-week hands-on workshop. You'll start your sewing-sample portfolio as you move from simple techniques to more challenging ones. Not only will you learn how to clip and notch, stay-stitch, and finish a seam, but you'll use your newly found talent to make an apron. Bring thread and a machine (or request one of ours for free) to the first class.
COST: $110 - includes pattern, samples, binder/workbook, and sewing machine rental
Bring thread and a machine to the first class. Supply list will be handed out in first class.
Beginning Sewing: Level II
Almost Intermediate sewing skills needed.
(you do NOT need Level 1 to enroll in this class)
Add to your sewing-sample portfolio in this five-week hands-on technique class. You'll learn the proper way to press and stitch a 5/8" seam, three methods for gathering stitches, and how to sew a dart, slip stitch, and ladder stitch. In the process, you'll leave class with an awesome Kimono-Style Robe...just in time for summer!
We recommend that you start with this class if you are new to sewing and are unable to commit to Beginning Sewing: The Basics.
Have a sewing machine and don’t know what to do with it? Learn how to change the needle, wind a bobbin, thread the machine, eliminate some rookie mistakes, and so much more! Leave class with some very basic machine skills and a pair of lovely table napkins that you’ve sew in class. TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 6
When you need to pack everything but the kitchen sink, you can grab this bag. It's HUGE! But it's light-weight and fun to carry. I think we all need a bag that's as wonderful as the contents in it (and the person carrying it!). You'll learn a lot in this class, including zipper installation and how to sew a square into a tube of fabric. And you'll get a bit of an arm-workout when we quilt a grid design into this! Finished size is 20" long and 12" square.
TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 4
DATE(S)/TIMES: In Session
INSTRUCTOR: Bia Bernum
COST: $100 - includes zippers, D-rings, tassel, and pattern from Studio Cherie -- check out her ETSY shop for inspiration!
SUPPLY LIST: (this project is not machine washable, so no need to pre-wash fabric)
1 1/2 yards of exterior fabric (can be home dec or cotton quilting-weight)
1 1/2 yards of lining fabric (cotton quilting-weight)
1/2 yard of handle fabric (cotton quilting-weight)
3.5 yards (126 inches) of jute webbing (found in the upholstery notions - you won't need this until the third class - I can show you a sample).
Seam guide that attaches to your foot (click here for an example) --optional but it makes quilting the bag a lot easier.
Sewing notions
The Fabric Folder
You wanted it, you've got it! Get rid of all those ugly cardboard folders and start using this eco-friendly folder made with your favorite fabric! There isn't a lot of sewing, but it will test your pressing skills! I've created a unique hidden magnetic closure that is tucked away in the flap.
DATE/TIME: Monday, September 13th, 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm
TOTAL DURATION: 2.5 hours
INTSTRUCTOR: Bia Bernum
COST: $25 - includes pattern, interfacing, and magnets
SUPPLY LIST:
1/2 yard of exterior fabric (cotton quilting-weight)
1/2 yard of interior fabric (cotton quilting-weight)
20" of matching SEW IN hook and loop tape (velcro) - NOT the sticky-back
New Universal 14/90 needle
Matching all-purpose thread
Sewing notions
Grab 'N' Go (Diaper) Clutch
Diapers? No Diapers? It doesn't really matter; you'll want to use this clutch ANY time! It measures 10 1/2" x 7", has a magnetic closure, and a strap that attaches with a swivel lobster claw clasp. Like all of our classes, you'll learn some great techniques that you can apply to other projects...including an unusual way to sew the lining in so it doesn't pull out and Bia's simple method for making a non-bulky strap. Have an embroidery machine? It's the perfect project for monogramming!
What fits in it? 2-3 diapers, a travel sized case of wipes, and a changing pad (pattern is included).
DATE/TIME: Thursday, September 23rd - 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm
TOTAL DURATION: 2.5 hours
INTSTRUCTOR: Bia Bernum
COST: $35 - includes pattern, interfacing, and hardware
SUPPLY LIST: prewash fabric if you want to be able to wash it in the future.
3/8 yard of exterior fabric (home dec/heavier fabric is recommended)
1/4 yard of lining fabric (cotton quilting-weight or home dec)
New Universal 14/90 needle
Matching all-purpose thread
Sewing notions
The 3-Rs Laptop Sleeve
Make this padded laptop sleeve with an old t-shirt and protect your laptop while you protect the environment! A company will do it for you for $49, by why bother? You can make it yourself then make them for gifts. The sleeve is padded and custom-fit to a particular laptop (you'll be doing some measuring). You can get really creative and combine t-shirt designs! Reduce - Reuse - Recycle!
DATE/TIME: Monday, October 18th - 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm
TOTAL DURATION: 3 hours
INTSTRUCTOR: Bia Bernum
COST: $30 - includes pattern and interfacing
SUPPLY LIST: pre-wash lining fabric
old t-shirt (bring several - some designs/sizes work better than others)
1/2 yard of twill or home dec fabric (I used this because my design was too small - you may not have to use it).
1/2 yard of lining fabric - flannel works well - pre-wash!
12" of sew-in hook and loop tape (Velcro - NOT the sticky stuff)
New Universal 16/100 needle (available at SYC)
Matching all-purpose thread
Sewing notions -- including a good fabric marking pen/marker
Your laptop so you can do some measuring
The Big Bag
This is a big bag that will yield big compliments. It measures 18" long, 16" tall, and 4 1/2" wide and has nice, wide straps. The small pleats give it dimension and character. Everything stays tucked inside with a magnetic snap closure. In this class, you'll learn how to make pleats and sew in a gusset (that rectangle piece that goes around the outside of the bag to give it shape). We'll also discuss some design variations that will make your next bag truly unique!
DATE: Tuesdays, October 19th and 26th
TIME: 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm
TOTAL DURATION: 6 hours
INSTRUCTOR: Bia Bernum
COST: $50 - includes pattern (KWIK SEW 3749), magnetic closure, and interfacing
SUPPLY LIST: No need to prewash fabric.
1 1/8 yard of exterior fabric (home decor, denim, upholstery). Avoid directional prints. You may want to check out www.fabric.com or look at the Amy Butler Home Decor fabric at The Village Sampler.
7/8 yard of lining fabric (home decor or twill - avoid dark colors - it's like looking into a cave)
14/90 and 16/100 needle
Disappearing fabric marker
Thread to match fabric
A 1/4" foot (optional - but makes it a lot easier)
Create your signature style in every room of your house with this colorful pillow. And although it looks complicated to make, it is really quite simple and perfect for beginners! Once you sew the triangles together, you'll learn how to install a hidden zipper. It's that easy!
ENROLLMENT: 6
DATE/TIME: Thursday, September 9th - 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm
TOTAL DURATION: 2.5 hours
INSTRUCTOR: Bia Bernum
COST: $20 - includes pattern and directions
SUPPLY LIST: DO NOT prewash fabric; this will be a dry-clean only pillow.
21" of home dec/drapery weight or upholstery fabric for (1) triangles.
21" of home dec/drapery weight or upholstery fabric for (2) triangles.
Have you ever looked at a quilt and wanted to make one? Well, now is your chance! This nine-week class (with breaks for shopping and homework) is for the true beginner. You'll learn tips and tricks for fabric selection, rotary cutting, piecing, pressing, quilting, and binding. When you are done, you'll have a beautiful quilt to show off. And what better way to start the holiday season than with a new quilt!
TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 6 -- this class fills quickly!
DATES: September 1 (Intro Course) then resumes September 15th through November 17th (see calendar for specific days/days off)
TIMES: Wednesdays - Afternoon Session: 1 pm to 3 pm
Evening Session: 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm
TOTAL DURATION: 18 hours (9 sessions that are two hours long)
COST: $150 - includes binder, handouts, and quilt batting
SUPPLY LIST: Supplied at the first class (Introduction Class).
PLEASE NOTE: You will have some “homework” in between sessions!
Color Comfort: Approaching Color in Sewing and Quilting
Who has time to learn color theory? You do! Once you see color in everything, you can incorporate it into everything you do! By the end of this workshop, you'll have a working understanding of color theory that can be applied to any sewing or decorating project. We'll be using the book, "Color Mastery" by Maria Peagler as a reference guide. You'll be creating color wheels, begin a personal color journey and introduce color harmonies that will enhance your projects for years to come.
TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 10
DATES: Saturdays, September 18th, 25th, October 2nd and 9th
TIME: 9:00 am to 11:30 am
TOTAL DURATION: 10 hours
INSTRUCTOR: Melissa Maxim
COST: $125 - includes book (Color Mastery by Maria Peagler), color journal, and handouts/materials
SUPPLY LIST:
Box of 64 Crayola Crayons
Other supplies will be announced in class. There will be a minor amount of homework between classes in order to prepare you for the next class.
Quilting - Open Sewing
It's time to get started on a new project OR finish one up an old one. Call or email to reserve your place! This is filling quickly and space is limited.
TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 8
DATE: TBA
TIMES: 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm OR 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
COST: $20
Basic Hand Embroidery: Level 1
Looking for something relaxing to do when you are watching tv, traveling, or just hanging out? Why not try hand embroidery and discover the needlewoman you are!? In this class, you'll develop a took-kit of hand embroidery skills to detail and embellish any project! You'll learn about the correct needles, thread, hoops, as well as four basic stitches (straight stitch/running stitch, satin stitch/padded satin stitch, back stitch/stem stitch, and chain stitch/daisy stitch). You'll practice your skills by creating a stitch portfolio page; you'll apply these skills and stitch up a one-of-a-kind tea towel.
ENROLLMENT: 6
DATE/TIME: Mondays, September 20th and 27th - 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm
This class is part of a series of Hand Embroidery classes. Look for more to come!
Color Analysis with Julie Allen of A New Hue
Arrive to your appointment a little early and wearing no makeup.
Have you ever wondered what colors bring out the best in you? Wearing certain colors make you look and feel better and save you time and money. Think about all those clothes hanging in your closet that you don't wear. You probably sense that they aren't for you. Let Julie Allen of A New Hue in Penfield, NY help you discover your color and discover yourself. She'll spend time analyzing your color, review your personal swatch book, then help you select cosmetics that play-up your best features.
WHEN: TBA
COST: $125 (includes consultation, personal swatch book, and supplemental materials)
Color Comfort: Approaching Color in Sewing and Quilting
Who has time to learn color theory? You do! Once you see color in everything, you can incorporate it into everything you do! By the end of this workshop, you'll have a working understanding of color theory that can be applied to any sewing or decorating project. We'll be using the book, "Color Mastery" by Maria Peagler as a reference guide. You'll be creating color wheels, begin a personal color journey and introduce color harmonies that will enhance your projects for years to come.
TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 10
DATES: Saturdays, September 18th, 25th, October 2nd and 9th
TIME: 9:00 am to 11:30 am
TOTAL DURATION: 10 hours
INSTRUCTOR: Melissa Maxim
COST: $125 - includes book (Color Mastery by Maria Peagler), color journal, and handouts/materials
SUPPLY LIST:
Box of 64 Crayola Crayons
Other supplies will be announced in class. There will be a minor amount of homework between classes in order to prepare you for the next class.
Must know how to use a sewing machine and work independently.
It's Friday and you aren't doing a thing except sitting around watching TV. You've got some sewing projects piling up and you can't quite get started. Sound familiar? Join other SYC fans in the studio for PMS Fridays. It's open sewing ... just bring your projects, your supplies, some pizza/munchies, and your happy face. Start the weekend off right...by sewing!
TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 6
DATES: 3rd Friday of the month (unless otherwise noted)
April 16th, May 21, June 18th, July 16th, August 20th
6 pm to 10 pm
COST: $10 (does not include pizza and munchies...you'll need to bring your own!)
If you would like assistance on your project, please call to schedule an appointment. We need to schedule time to help you. Fees will vary.
You can join us in the studio during regular business hours whenever class is not in session. Bring your projects and have fun with other sewing enthusiasts! Use our machines, tables, and equipment. We've got the space for you to complete your projects. Just come in and we'll get you set up. You must pre-register if you would like any form of assistance.
COST: Varies depending on level of assistance (about $4 per hour and up).
If you need some project ideas, click HERE. Please come to the studio with a project in mind. There are a lot of free patterns online!
Knitting Classes: Some of you have expressed an interest in learning to knit. Please check out our friends at The Wooly Minded on Market Street in downtown Corning. They offer a variety of knitting classes at all levels. They also sell high quality yarns and fibers.
Beading/Jewelry Classes: Check out these wonderful classes at Beth's Bead Shop & Gallery on Market Street in Corning.
A Case for a Cause
Sew You Can is participating in the Million Pillow Case Challenge organized by American Patchwork and Quilting. During the year, we'll be collecting pillowcases and donating them to charity. What can you do? It's simple: just download the patterns (below) and get busy sewing. You can make as many pillowcases as you'd like.
Please prewash all fabric -- please... no strong detergents and no fabric softeners.
Currently, pillowcases will be donated to the Pediatric Centers at The Children's Hospital (Pittsburgh, PA) and Arnot Ogden Medical Center (Elmira, NY) --
If you know of an organization who should receive these pillowcases, please email or call (936-3656). We will be alternating recipients throughout the year.
If your organization is participating by making pillow cases and you'd like me to add you to the list of drop-off sites, please email me with contact information.
Quilt for Kids
Make a quilt and send it to Quilt for Kids! All you need to do is agree to make a quilt and you'll receive a packet of fabric and directions. You make the quilt and return it to them. They send it to a child with a life-threatening illness or who is a victim of abuse.
Private Lessons are arranged on a individual basis and as time allows. Contact Melissa, Ellen, or Bia to schedule an appointment.
We have Bernina sewing machines, five Janome Schoolmate sewing machines, and a Bernina serger that can be rented and used for our classes. They cannot be taken outside the studio. Thread and needle are available for an additional fee.
The rental fee is $5 per class session/meeting - so the fee will be higher for classes with multiple sessions.
For open sewing, the fee is $5 per three-hours.
To guarantee a machine, reserve one when you sign up for a class. It's that easy!
