Calendar | Classes | Instructors | FAQ | About Us

Upcoming Classes: Click on a class for details, times, and photos. To see an instructor's biography and individual class list, click on his or her name in the details section.

February 2010
 08 - Begin Sewing (days)
 08 - Begin Sewing
 09 - Zippers
 10 - Begin Sewing
 16 - Fit Clinic
 20 - Hot Knife
 22 - Simple Skirt (days)
 23 - Pajamas
 26 - Magic of Wool
March
 01 - Begin Sewing (days)
 03 - Begin Sewing
 04 - Pillows One
 06 - Handbags
 09 - Seams
 11 - Pillows Two
 13 - Little Black Dress
 14 - Hatstravaganza!
 15 - Hand Sewing 1

March
 18 - Pattern Making 1
 22 - Hand Sewing 2
 23 - Fit Clinic
 29 - Alterations
 30 - Moulage
April
 05 - Begin Sewing
 07 - Rescued and Re-Vamp
 10 - Flora
 11 - Flora
 17 - Roman Shades
 22 - Elegant Jacket
 27 - Fit Clinic
May
 08 - Tea Cozy
 11 - Camisole/Tank Top
June
 04 - Maynard Master Class
 15 - Boy Shorts/Panties
 19 - Vintage Re-dux

Beginning Sewing: Learning the Basics (4-Day Class) with Ann Nutting
Class Full!$195.00
Monday through Thursday, February 8, 9, 10, 11, 10:00-2:30

This class introduces beginners to the basics of sewing: using the sewing machine, understanding the pattern, sewing terms, cutting, marking, current construction methods, pressing, and using tools and notions. Sessions consist of a lecture-demonstration, with workshop time and individual instruction. You will create a kimono-style robe during the class. The pattern is included in the class fee. Materials list. Check materials list before first class: it is on line, click here

Beginning Sewing: Learning the Basics (5 evenings) with Karine Langan
Class Full!$195.00
Mondays, February 8, 15, 22, March 1, 8, 6:30-9:30

This class introduces beginners to the basics of sewing: using the sewing machine, understanding the pattern, sewing terms, cutting, marking, current construction methods, pressing, and using tools and notions. Sessions consist of a lecture-demonstration, with workshop time and individual instruction. You will create a kimono-style robe during the class. The pattern is included in the class fee. Check materials list before first class: it is on line, click here

Perfect Zipper with Lynda Maynard
$50.00, materials cost $5.00
Tuesday, February 9, 6:30-9:30

If you are one of those sewers who is intimidated by zippers or frustrated by repeated failed attempts, this class is for you. We will install the traditional lapped zipper, then learn an easy, foolproof method for inserting invisible zippers. By the end of class, you will be an expert! Bring basic sewing kit.

Beginning Sewing: Learning the Basics (5 evenings) with Karine Langan
$195.00
February Wednesday 10, Thursday 11, Wednesday 17, Thursday 18, Wednesday 24, 6:30-9:30

This class introduces beginners to the basics of sewing: using the sewing machine, understanding the pattern, sewing terms, cutting, marking, current construction methods, pressing, and using tools and notions. Sessions consist of a lecture-demonstration, with workshop time and individual instruction. You will create a kimono-style robe during the class. The pattern is included in the class fee. Check materials list before first class: it is on line, click here

Fit Clinic with Lynda Maynard
$50.00
Tuesday, February 16, 6:30-9:30

How many of you have made garments that are hanging in your closet because they don't fit properly? This class is a wonderful opportunity to bring in muslin mock-ups and have Lynda fit them and help you alter the pattern accordingly. You will leave with one or two "needle ready" patterns and the knowledge to continue adjusting your own patterns. We will also discuss line and proportion related to various figure types.

Magic with a Hot Knife with Bill Jones
$75.00, materials cost $10.00
Saturday, February 20, 10:00-4:00

Learn to use the hot stencil knife to cut stencils and fabrics. Cutting synthetic fabrics with a hot knife...seals the edges so they don't fray, welds layers together, allows non-fraying openwork, creates magical layers and patterns. We will create a scarf or two  in class. Bring TWO two-yard lengths of synthetic chiffon, organza, tulle or other sheer fabric that coordinate together (We will share and swap extra fabric.) Fabrics MUST be synthetic (nylon, polyester,  etc.) Scraps of synthetics like tissue lame, taffeta, and metallic threads and laces may be included. Supply list: •2 two yard pieces of synthetic chiffon, organza or tulle.(nylon, polyester) •scraps of metallic tissue lame, lace, ribbon •exacto knife or matt knife •8x10 pieces of poster board or illustration board. Class materials fee $10.

Simple Skirt - step up from beginning sewing— 4 days with Debi Cournale
$160.00
Monday through Thursday, February 22, 23, 24, 25, 10:00-2:30

In this class you will make an A-line or straight skirt. Select a style that works best for you. You will learn fit techniques including a zipper. Basic sewing skills are needed. Be the one everyone asks, “Where did you get that skirt”? Check materials list before first class: it is on line, click here

Pajamas, step up from beginning sewing (2 evenings) with Debi Cournale
$90.00
Tuesdays, February 23, March 2, 6:30-9:30

Come make a quick pair of pull-on pajamas to go with you new robe.

THE JEAN CACICEDO VEST WORKSHOP: THE MAGIC OF WOOL (3 days) with Jean Williams Cacicedo
$325.00
Friday through Sunday, February 26, 27, 28, 10:00-5:00

Jean’s vest workshop returns to The Sewing Workshop with new techniques and design approaches utilizing wools’ potential as a textured cloth .We will begin the workshop by learning three basic techniques that will produce beautifully textured cloth: Nuno Style Fabric incorporating raw fleece fibers onto cotton gauze, Resist Paste Fulling with wool gauze and’ Shrink” Quilting, a technique Jean has developed for sewing wool and polyester fabrics together. These techniques will be reviewed and then made into a simple style vest design, using. The Sewing Workshop Jean Cacicedo Vest Pattern. This will be a fun and fast paced workshop with a focus on understanding the transformative properties of wool and the magic of woolen cloth as a creative art fiber in fashion.

Beginning Sewing: Learning the Basics (Day Class) with Karine Langan
$195.00
Monday through Thursday, March 1, 2, 3, 4, 10:00-2:30

This class introduces beginners to the basics of sewing: using the sewing machine, understanding the pattern, sewing terms, cutting, marking, current construction methods, pressing, and using tools and notions. Sessions consist of a lecture-demonstration, with workshop time and individual instruction. You will create a kimono-style robe during the class. The pattern is included in the class fee. Materials list. Check materials list before first class: it is on line, click here

Beginning Sewing: Learning the Basics (5 evenings) with Karine Langan
Class Full!$195.00
March Wednesday 3, Wednesday 10, Tuesday 16, Wednesday 24, Wednesday 31, 6:30-9:30

This class introduces beginners to the basics of sewing: using the sewing machine, understanding the pattern, sewing terms, cutting, marking, current construction methods, pressing, and using tools and notions. Sessions consist of a lecture-demonstration, with workshop time and individual instruction. You will create a kimono-style robe during the class. The pattern is included in the class fee. Check materials list before first class: on line, click here

Pillow Making One with Susan Vorbeck
$50.00
Thursday, March 4, 6:30-9:30

Start simple and build your knowledge of pillow making. Begin with a knife edge with a zipper closure. Make a second one with Flange and an envelope back. Bring pillow forms 12" - 18" square, (your choice of pillow size) and 1/2 to 5/8 yards per pillow, zipper and thread.

Don’t Toss That Purse – Revamp It! How to Paint and Embellish Handbags with Margot Silk Forrest
$95.00, materials cost $5.00
Saturday, March 6, 10:00-5:00

This lively full-day class will introduce you to the art of transforming old out-of-date, or unloved handbags into new fashion statements or works of wearable art. Margot Silk Forrest will show you how to paint, color block, or sponge your purse; then attach the beads, crystals, buttons, charms, chains, ribbon, piping, appliqué, fabric, and/or leather scraps of your choice. Materials fee: $5 - includes the use all leather and fabric paint, three kinds of brushes, numerous specialty glues, leather needles, ultra-strong thread, and other hand tools and supplies for attaching embellishments to handbags. You can bring your own embellishments or shop from Margot's extensive private stash, including feathers, vintage buttons, watch faces, and unusual appliques. To spur your creativity, Margot will bring a trunk show of purses she has transformed. For a sneak peak, go to www.sassyfeet.com/purses.htm or choose the Purses category on Margot’s blog, http://glittersweatshop.typepad.com. Margot is the author of Sassy Feet! How to Paint, Bead, Bedeck, and Embellish Your Shoes (2008) and founder of www.sassyfeet.com. What to bring: · A new or used handbag (small or medium size) made of smooth leather or manmade leather. (No plastic, suede, manmade suede, or fur, please) Alternatively, you could bring a fabric purse. · Your favorite embellishments, if any · A painting smock or old shirt to protect your clothes from paint.

Seams to Matter with Ann Nutting
$45.00
Tuesday, March 9, 6:30-9:00

In this class you'll learn how to finish seams in order to make the inside of your garment look perfect and to keep the seams from raveling. You will learn which kinds of finishes are appropriate for various fabrics and learn to do all this using your sewing machine, no serger needed. Students make samples of the seam finishes so that you'll have experience in completing each of them plus have detailed instructions to duplicate them on your own machine.

Pillow Making Two with Susan Vorbeck
$50.00
Thursday, March 11, 6:30-9:30

Expanding on the basics we will learn to cover a cord and make a pillow with cord ratail, we will also make a Tootsie Roll neck roll with accent cord. Materials: pillow form, cord to cover, neck roll form, zipper, accent cord 1 1/2 yards. Neck Roll 2/3 yards of fabric, pillow 1/2 to 5/8 yards depending on the size you wish to make. Contrast fabric to cover cord.

Little Black Cocktail Dress (3 days) with Jarred Garza
$260.00
Saturdays, March 13, 20, 27, 10:00-4:00

Do you have a great fitting dress that you would like to create in a special fabric? Do you have a great dress pattern, fabric, or trim you're dying to use? Have you ever wanted to make a dress for those very special occasions? Jarred Garza's Cocktail Dress class could be what you need to finally make that special dress you've always wanted. This 3 day, 5 hour workshop will help you dream and create the perfect Cocktail dress for you or a loved one. In this class you will create your perfect “Cocktail dress” from cutting and fitting the sample, sewing, and trimming! In the 3 days of class we will discuss creative, intelligent and crafty ways to make you or your loved one look their best. There are patterns available if needed, but you are encouraged to come to class with a vintage or new pattern, possible fabric and lining ideas for your creation. Basic sewing skills are suggested for this class as well as a creative mind and fabulous taste. Cheers!

Hatstravaganza! with Wayne Wichern
$140.00, materials cost $30.00
Sundays, March 14, 21, 10:00-3:00

Create straw hats that captivate and amuse your friends. Wayne teaches each student to construct two handblocked parisisol straw hats using traditional hat blocks - wood forms used for shaping straw and felt. Students finish and embellish their millinery creations with silk flowers, fabric sashes, ribbon, feathers, veiling, etc. Students are encouraged to bring items from their stash that they wish to use. This class is taught in Wayne's studio, in Redwood City.

Hand Sewing One with Cheryl Swanson
$50.00, materials cost $7.00
Monday, March 15, 6:30-9:30

Long before the sewing machine was invented, everyone sewed by hand. While the sewing machine is a marvelous invention, it can't do everything. There is great pleasure and art in hand sewing, not to mention portability. In beginning hand sewing, students learn about factors that go into decision making for a successful sewing project. Needle and thread selection is discussed, as well as how to stock a sewing basket. The techniques for a number of different stitches are demonstrated. Students work on a small project to practice their new skills. Exquisite examples are shown for inspiration and students learn how hand sewing is used in garment embellishment. Come and enjoy an evening of relaxed sewing and open yourself to a new creative venture.

Pattern Making 1 with Jarred Garza
$325.00
Thursdays, March 18, 25, April 1, 8, 15, 29, May 6, 13, 6:30-9:30

Do you have basic sewing skills and are looking to be challenged and create new garments from scratch? Have you ever bought a pattern and wanted to change the collar, sleeve, or the whole thing. Pattern making 1 is just what you need to turn your already existing patterns into something new and unique. Instructor Jarred Garza will show you the basic principles of the flat pattern and through the course you will create your very own garment and watch it materialize as you construct and manipulate a basic fitted dress. This 7 week night 3 hour workshop will cover dart manipulation, style lines, sleeves, collars, and grading. You must have beginners sewing or have basic sewing knowledge as a pre-requisite for the class. Basic Pattern blocks will be produced in the first few classes and there will be a list of required materials for the class.

Hand Sewing Two with Cheryl Swanson
$50.00, materials cost $10.00
Monday, March 22, 6:30-9:30

Students expand on their knowledge and experience from Beginning Hand Sewing. Students perform exercises to increase the quality, accuracy and consistency of their stitches. We also discuss dealing with tricky fabrics and threads and learn techniques to handle them. A number of new stitches are demonstrated as we make a small drawstring bag in class. Please bring your sewing basket with the usual supplies: pins, needles, scissors, etc. The supplied kit includes all materials for the class project. Knowing how to sew by hand improves your garment construction skills and opens up a whole world of creative projects.

Fit Clinic with Lynda Maynard
$50.00
Tuesday, March 23, 6:30-9:30

How many of you have made garments that are hanging in your closet because they don't fit properly? This class is a wonderful opportunity to bring in muslin mock-ups and have Lynda fit them and help you alter the pattern accordingly. You will leave with one or two "needle ready" patterns and the knowledge to continue adjusting your own patterns. We will also discuss line and proportion related to various figure types.

Alterations with Susan Vorbeck
$50.00
Monday, March 29, 6:30-9:30

Bring a project to class. Learn how to straighten or change a hemline, shorten sleeves, hem pants or change a waist measurement. Other information given as time permits.

Patternmaking: Moulage (4 evenings) with Lynda Maynard
$180.00
Tuesdays, March 30, April 6, 13, 20, 6:30-9:30

With her extensive knowledge on the moulage, Lynda will teach you the world of moulage techniques. The moulage is a form-fitting pattern that duplicates the figure with no ease or seam allowance added. You will learn how to properly measure the figure and how to convert these measurements to a finished pattern. You will make a vinyl copy that becomes the template for creating future patterns.

Beginning Sewing: Learning the Basics (5 evenings) with Karine Langan
$195.00
Mondays, April 5, 12, 19, 26, May 3, 6:30-9:30

This class introduces beginners to the basics of sewing: using the sewing machine, understanding the pattern, sewing terms, cutting, marking, current construction methods, pressing, and using tools and notions. Sessions consist of a lecture-demonstration, with workshop time and individual instruction. You will create a kimono-style robe during the class. The pattern is included in the class fee. Check materials list before first class: it is on line, click here

Rescued and Re-Vamp with Jarred Garza
$200.00
Wednesdays, April 7, 14, 21, 28, 6:30-9:30

Stains that won't come out!? Is that garment too big or small? Want to fit or fix that garment and just don't know how? Jarred Garza will show you tried and true remedies, as well as out of the box and quick ways to fit and fix your garments. At this 4 night, 3 hour workshop you can bring as many or few garments that need tailoring and even reconstruction. Beginning sewing skills are required for this class and we hope to see you soon.

Flora with Lynda Albiero
$90.00, materials cost $70.00
Saturday, April 10, 10:00-5:00

Salute the Roman goddess of flowers, Flora, this April with a luscious 26 petal flower resting on a lavender filled sachet. The full blown flower is suggestive of those with rolled petals found in floral sprays of the 1930's. It lends itself to millinery work, weddings, home decor and as a personal embellishment. The ottoman shaped sachet is wrapped with a double tier of tassel fringe. A ribbon tied box filled with lavender, dyed silk organza in soft pastels, vintage pieces to build the stamens, velvet leaves, 2 lengths of fringe, button molds, needles and thread plus silk doupioni awaits you. Hand tinted instructions complete with an address book for supplies are included in the materials fee. You will also learn how to tint the velvet leaves during the workshop. Set aside a day in April to celebrate Spring, indulge in a complimentary seasonal dessert and cup of fine tea plus connect with your "sisters of the sachet." Both beginning students of sewing and those with multiple skills will find FLORA a pleasure to create. Please note there is a choice of a Saturday or Sunday class. Lynda asks that enrollment be complete a week prior to the workshops as each set of silk organza petals is custom dyed.

Flora with Lynda Albiero
$90.00, materials cost $70.00
Sunday, April 11, 10:00-5:00

Salute the Roman goddess of flowers, Flora, this April with a luscious 26 petal flower resting on a lavender filled sachet. The full blown flower is suggestive of those with rolled petals found in floral sprays of the 1930's. It lends itself to millinery work, weddings, home decor and as a personal embellishment. The ottoman shaped sachet is wrapped with a double tier of tassel fringe. A ribbon tied box filled with lavender, dyed silk organza in soft pastels, vintage pieces to build the stamens, velvet leaves, 2 lengths of fringe, button molds, needles and thread plus silk doupioni awaits you. Hand tinted instructions complete with an address book for supplies are included in the materials fee. You will also learn how to tint the velvet leaves during the workshop. Set aside a day in April to celebrate Spring, indulge in a complimentary seasonal dessert and cup of fine tea plus connect with your "sisters of the sachet." Both beginning students of sewing and those with multiple skills will find FLORA a pleasure to create. Please note there is a choice of a Saturday or Sunday class. Lynda asks that enrollment be complete a week prior to the workshops as each set of silk organza petals is custom dyed.

Roman Shades with Susan Vorbeck
$70.00, materials cost $5.00
Saturday, April 17, 10:00-3:00

Learn to make a basic Flut Roman Shade, the starting point of the many varied kinds of roman shades. We will be making a sample shade, lined and fully functional. You will also learn how to measure and figure yardage for your own windows. Materials needed for the class: bring cotton fabric, 1-1/2 yards face (fashion) fabric, medium weight , 1 yard of lining and thread. Materials fee for hardware $5.00

Inside, Outside and Everything In Between: The Simply Elegant Jacket  (4 days) with Nancy Shriber
$375.00
Thursday through Sunday, April 22, 23, 24, 25, 10:00-5:00

Join us for four exciting days devoted to the design and construction of your next “best” artful garment! The class will focus on designing and working with two suggested patterns: Vogue 8399, a Marcy Tilton Wearable Art pattern and the Nikko Jacket, a Sewing Workshop pattern.  During the course of this class you will review your selected pattern and fabrics, develop a timeline in which to work, and construct a lined jacket.  In addition, Nancy will lead a discussion and demonstration on a variety of basic construction techniques, elegant embellishment options and appropriate finishing details.  And, of course, you are always welcome to work with a favorite garment pattern of your own.

Fit Clinic with Lynda Maynard
$50.00
Tuesday, April 27, 6:30-9:30

How many of you have made garments that are hanging in your closet because they don't fit properly? This class is a wonderful opportunity to bring in muslin mock-ups and have Lynda fit them and help you alter the pattern accordingly. You will leave with one or two "needle ready" patterns and the knowledge to continue adjusting your own patterns. We will also discuss line and proportion related to various figure types.

Tea Cozy with Susan Vorbeck
$80.00
Saturday, May 8, 10:00-4:00

This is to be a fun Whimsical Tea Cozy. Bring a patterned fabric that can be decorated with embroidy, trims, buttons, what ever you fancy. Also bring bias tape or make your own. Materials fee $8.00 for batting and quilted lining. Stay for tea time Bring your lunch Bring your Tea Pot that you have just made the "cozy to fit" and we will have a lovely tea party. Bring your favorite tea to share and if you feel inclined bring a treat to share as well. We will provide scones, jam and clotted cream, plus a sweet or two. Bring your lunch. Tea at 4PM

Camisole/Tank Top with Lynda Maynard
$90.00
Tuesdays, May 11, 18, 6:30-9:30

to be provided

Maynard Master Class with Lynda Maynard
$450.00
June Friday 4, Saturday 5, Saturday 5, 10:00-5:00

Come join Lynda for an intensive instruction to fine-tune and complete your garment. Class size is limited. If you wish to confer with her directly on your project choice contact The Sewing Workshop.

Boy Shorts/Panties with Lynda Maynard
$90.00
Tuesdays, June 15, 22, 6:30-9:30

to be provided

Vintage Re-dux (two days) with Jarred Garza
$170.00
Saturdays, June 19, 26, 10:00-4:00

Do you scrounge though thrift shops looking for gems that need a little tweaking? Are you stumped on how to fix, fit or jazz up a vintage piece you know you can breathe new life into? Are you a clothing junkie and have garments that need a special something? Vintage Redux is a creative workshop where you can fit, fix and remake vintage and newer garments to look and fit there best. Instructor Jarred Garza has been making and selling one of a kind clothing made from vintage garments and fabric for 5 years. In class you will learn unique, interesting and intelligent ways to properly reconstruct forgotten garments. In class you could learn how to make a dress into a top, a skirt from some vintage fabrics, how to fit that loose garment or even take out that dress you loved. Whether it be the fabric, buttons, placket, pocket, top or bottom, we can cut, stitch, and manipulate a special garment just for you. Beginner sewing skills are required for this class and we hope to see you soon.

All classes are held in the San Francisco Bay Area. We strongly advise advance registration for classes, not only to ensure your space in the class but also to ensure that the class happens! If we don't meet the minimum of six students for a class a week prior to the class start date, we must cancel the event.

PayPal/eBay's service to make fast, easy, and secure payments for your eBay purchases!

Registration: We now offer Paypal signup for all classes. You can also register for a class by , or by calling us at (800) 875-8824 or (415) 221-7397. Payments may be made by check or credit card. If you're registering for a Beginning Sewing class, we also need your size in order to send you the proper pattern.

Gift Certificates: Gift certificates are available for purchase. They are valid for one year from date-of-issue.

Studio Hours & Private Lessons: Need to finish a project but don't have the space or proper tools? The Sewing Workshop offers their well-equipped, large workroom for your private use. Call ahead to reserve time and a machine for a few hours or a day during our office hours. Studio hours are $15 per hour for the first hour, and $10 per hour thereafter. Private lessons are $50 per hour. Times can be arranged to fit your schedule. For more information on private lessons, please contact us for more information.

Class Fee Policy: All classes with a fee of $90.00 or less require full payment at the time of registration. Classes require at least $90 or 50% deposit, whichever is greater, at time of registration. The balance is due on the first day of the class. Partial payment is not available when paying with Paypal. Unless you cancel within the allowed period, full payment is required. Materials fees are made payable to the instructor on the day of class.

Cancellation/Transfer Policy: A $10.00 transaction fee applies to all class cancellations and transfers. Sorry, no refunds for missed classes. To receive a refund for a cancelled registration, notification must be given one full week prior to the class start date. (Of course, more time is always appreciated.) Retreat cancellations require 30 days notice or as noted in the description. If we must cancel a class, you will receive a full refund, or you may apply the fee to another class.

Calendar | Classes | Instructors | FAQ | About Us
The Sewing Workshop

2010 Balboa St at 21st Ave
San Francisco, CA 94121
(415) 221-7397

©2002–2008. All rights reserved.