faq

I am new to sewing. Where do I begin?

I recommend starting with Beginning Sewing: The Basics. It's a wonderful introduction to sewing and is only a small investment. You'll learn how to use a sewing machine and then use those skills to make a pillow case, a tote bag, and a drawstring bag. Once you decide that you'd like to learn more, take some beginner project classes. Once you are comfortable with the machine and the basics, you can take Beginning Sewing One.

I have been sewing for a while but am not that comfortable. How can I learn more?

You can take some project classes that are at the beginner and almost intermediate level -- and I really recommend the Beginning Sewing One class. Melissa focuses on some techniques that can be applied to any project (not just clothing).

I want to learn to quilt but know nothing about quilting. Do you offer classes for a true beginner?

Ellen teaches a nine-week quilting class (with both afternoon and evening sessions) that is designed for someone who has never quilted. She begins by discussing fabric and tools and helps you through every step of the process. You'll even quilt (top-stitch) and bind your quilt!

My child would like to sew. At what age can she/he start taking classes?

We typically recommend no younger than eight or nine (some depends on maturity-level). There are a lot of sharp objects and potential hazards with sewing, so children must have the attention span (or it becomes dangerous). We have an after-school program (Sew Cool After School) that runs during the school year and several summer workshop that run throughout the summer. Both classes teach basic sewing to children. We then recommend that kids continue to sew project to develop their skills - like sewing a straight line. At about the age of 12 or 13, most kids are ready to sew clothing and other more complex projects that involve patterns and directions.

Do you have gift certificates?

Yes, we have gift certificates! Just stop by the studio and pick one up (or give a lot of hints and maybe someone will get one for you!)

I'd like to teach a class. How do I do that?

Please contact Bia to set up an appointment. You'll need to bring a portfolio of your work including samples of what you'd like to teach and some lesson ideas. At this time, we are only looking for teachers who can offer sewing related classes and who have courses already developed.

Do you sell fabric?

We do not sell fabric in a retail area - we focus on our studio. We can, however, order fabric and other items. There are minimum quanitities.

How can I advertise in your studio or on your website?

We'll post a 8.5" x 11" advertisement on our community bulletin board in the studio and include a link on our website. Contact Bia for more information.

How can I make your ironing tables?

I purchased two Closetmaid Stacker Cubes at ValuCenter in Painted Post (Target sells them, too). The top is a 3' x 4' piece of particle board that I had cut at Home Depot. I covered it with Warm and Natural (several layers) and a piece of fabric and stapled it to the back with a staple gun. Please note that you want to use particle board - regular plywood doesn't work because the steam raises the grain.

Here's another idea - an ironing table from an old tv tray