Most of what I know about sewing I have learned one project at a time. I remember with delight the first time I made pleats, made a pocket and sewed a dart. I think that’s why many of us sew – the satisfaction of learning a new skill while creating something original.
Yay! My first pleated project!
A close-up of those gorgeous pleats!
The learn-as-you-go method has served me well, but I’ve found myself yearning for more. I’d like to have a more well-rounded set of skills I can call upon when I face challenging sewing projects. So what did I do? I enrolled in a Beginning Sewing Apparel class at a local sewing shop! My friends would giggle because those who know me know I cannot keep myself out of classrooms. I love to learn. I even met my fiancé in a class! I’m in the middle of a break from my graduate degree and what’s the first thing I do…enroll in a class! Honestly, classrooms feel like home to me. They are my sanctuary. Yes, I’m a class-junkie.
Supplies are packed. It’s like the night before the first day of school! Yipee!
One of the most exciting parts of this class is that we get to pick our own pattern to make and the instructors will walk us through it! I’m leaning toward a Colette dress like the Hazel or the Parfait. I’m looking for something that is challenging enough that I’ll learn something but not so challenging that it’s certain to result in disaster and frustration. Do you have any recommendations?
What I hope to learn in this class:
- Techniques specific to apparel sewing
- How to install a lining
- How to get a better fit and alter along the way
- Finishing techniques to make the inside of the garment as pretty as the outside
- Confidence – this might be the most important one!
Wish me luck!
-lisa marie
