Basic Sewing Class Recap

One of my favorite things to do when it comes to the wonderful world of sewing is to teach beginning sewing classes. Those who have never sewn or who have little to no experience have the mind of a sponge just ready to soak up everything. They are open to new ideas and willing to try new things. The excitement that fills the room is like no other. I’m not sure who is more excited about class, me or the students

19 budding seamstresses arrived at the Sewing Society’s 1st beginning sewing class of the year held at Wheaton Public Library. 

Wide eyes, anxious stares, nervous looks, wringing of hands and intimidated looks at sewing machines……..All this was going on among the beginner seamstresses in our most recent class. But two hours later there were smiles, laughter and lots and lots of relief.

After introductions which included stories of taking sewing in home ec in high school, buying a machine on craigslist, being a crafty person, made a new years resolution and always been interested we began talking about the parts of the sewing machine and how it operates. Some actually feared they wouldn’t be able to sew a straight line others were just unsure of making the decision to even pick up a sewing machine. As class went on and we went step by step the more we worked away the anxieties. Each student learned to thread their sewing machine and the bobbin.

Two students shown here threading their machines giving one another some encouragement

Afterwards the class received step by step instructions on how to sew the flat seam, flat seam with zig zag edges and a flat felled seamed

The students then went back to their seats and worked on some samples.

A successfully sewn flat seam. Look at this happy face!

In our class students receive one on one instruction and ask questions about their machines and other sewing projects they are interested in working on

 Thanks to my two teachers aides: Ann P and Xtine H

The Basic Sewing Class of Silver Spring Sewing Society showing off their samples

If you would like to join us for our next Basic Sewing Class on April 1st please click the link:

 http://sewfrugalbasicsewingclasses.eventbrite.com

See you in class. Happy Sewing!

Silver Spring Sewing Sisters make Tote Bags!

Silver Spring Sewing Sisters switched things up a bit in this weeks class. With more than half the class being brand new seamstresses, SSSS went back to the basics in today’s class. After introductions were made and door prizes were distributed we were ready to get started. We began by learning how to wind a bobbin, properly thread the sewing machine and cut out a simple pattern. All that in an hour!

Within 3 hours these budding seamstresses had completed fabulously designed tote bags.  As a matter of fact a few of them loaded them up with “stuff” and carried them home. I just love these “make it and take it” classes. Can’t wait for the next one. Join us on December 4th for Tote Bag Making Class Part 2

Gabbi with her new tote

Glady with her new tote

Kanisa with her new corduroy tote

April with her cute red tote bag

Sam with her new Tote bag to match her coat

Eummi Showing off her new tote bag

Ann with her artsy new tote

Finished Tote Bags

Silver Spring Sewing Sisters Sewing Class 6/5/11

Hi Ladies!! Let’s “Jump Start Your Sewing Machines” Session III June 5, 2011 from 2-4pm

This is a basic group sewing class and you will be sewing in this class. You will leave with a completed sewing project. We will work quickly and you will learn a lot in two hours. Please come on time and make certain your sewing machines are in good working condition. Please check the supply list below to ensure you have all the items you need to sew with.

This is the last “group sewing class” of the summer for Silver Spring Sewing Sisters . This simply means parts of the sewing machine, basic stitches, reading a guide sheet, reading pattern pieces etc will not be taught as an individual class. Basic Sewing as a group will be offered again starting in September.

The remainder of our classes for the summer will include basic skirts, basic pants, tote bags and refashioning. These classes will cover the basics and will be mainly focused on completing a specific project. If you are a beginner or intermediate sewist these upcoming sewing classes will be perfect for you. The only prerequisite is that you know how to use your sewing machine. You should be able to thread and know basic operations.

The fee for this upcoming basic sewing class is $8. This fee will cover the cost of the room and some supplies and handouts which will be provided to you for the class. There will be a sign posted in the hallway as you come in the door. Feel free to bring a friend just be sure to RSVP for both of you.

Please make sure you have all the supplies you need. Below are the supplies needed for this class:

•A working sewing machine (Please have your machines serviced before bringing them to class)

•(be sure to bring your foot petal and manual if you have one)

•Presser feet

•Extra sewing machine needles

•Seam ripper (this will be your best friend

•Tracing wheel/tracing paper or chalk (whichever you prefer)

•Thread (various colors)

•Ruler

•Tape Measure

•Pin cushion

•Bobbins (make sure they fit your machine)

•A sewing box or carrying case to keep all your supplies

••Patience and a sense of humor

If you are having difficulty finding any supplies or have questions regarding other supplies please don’t hesitate to email me at: SewFrugalandFashionable@gmail.com

Unless you have made other arrangements with me you must RSVP for this class on the meet up group. Class size in limited to guarantee everyone receives individual attention.

HAPPY SEWING!!!

As a side note: Private Sewing lessons will be offered soon and posted on this meet up group in the next few days. These Private Sewing lessons will be for one or two people (more information is forthcoming).

Visit our group for information on additional classes: http://www.meetup.com/Silver-Spring-Sewing-Sisters: