This sequence of four weekly classes is ideal for less experienced sewists who want to learn the fundamentals of machine sewing through a few projects. If you do not have a machine, you can borrow one of ours, or we can help you find a used machine that suits your needs.
Classes will be held weekly on Wednesdays, June 7, 14, 21, and 28, 4:30pm to 6:30pm. Class projects may vary somewhat depending on the instructor and interests of the students.
Week 1—Checking machine performance; bento bag
You will learn to: thoroughly clean and oil your machine (if applicable); understand thread tension, and adjustments review needles, thread, feet, and sew test samples. As time permits, class members will cut and construct a cotton bag.
Week 2—Learning seams, constructing a tote
You will learn: seam finishing techniques (pinking, zig zag, French seams); adjusting for heavier fabric and multiple layers, marking techniques, and use of interfacing/stabilizer. Class members will construct a bag from pre-cut materials.
Week 3—Sewing a lined, zippered pouch
You will learn: choosing fabric layout for a pouch, cutting pouch fabric and lining, and installing a zipper.
Week 4—Finish projects, plan your own projects, hand finishing
You will learn: hand sewing techniques: buttons, hand hemming, blanket stitch, basting, finish any remaining projects, how to plan your next sewing project with help from experienced sewists. Class members may choose to sew another zippered pouch or a pillow cover to reinforce learning or start a new project.
Instructor: Shantell Reid, PhD. Faculty member in the Fashion and Textile Technology department at Buffalo State University.
$90 class fee covers four weeks of instruction and supplies. Class is capped at 5 participants.
For each class, Stitch Buffalo offers one seat at half-price to a student or community member who otherwise could not afford to attend. To inquire about availability, please e-mail us. We have waiting lists for many classes, so if you register for this discounted class, please consider it a commitment to attend.