Learn to Sew With Guided Projects
Adult Multi-Week | Available
This class is an introduction to sewing. The goal is not to dive deep on any one skill, but to teach you the most basic and useful techniques to sewing that you can build on in more advanced classes. Since the goal is to learn by doing, we are going to attempt to complete one small project per week, with each project building on techniques learned in previous projects. To that end, we will all be doing the same project together each week and the projects will not (with the exception of the cross-back apron) be clothing items. The class will focus primarily on usable accessories and home decor items. We will have a lot of fun, gain confidence and learn the same skills that can apply to more advanced projects.
- Sewing machines are supplied, but you may bring your own if you prefer. Class may change based on student interests and skill level. Students need to come to every class with previous project completed so that they can share what they learned or any questions they have. Students also need to bring fabric and materials for that week’s project. Teacher will have a limited amount of extra materials available for students to purchase, but it will be on a first come basis and should not be relied on. Please note, the projects we make will vary some from class to class so students are encouraged to take the class multiple times if they like.
Accessibility notes: Many artmaking processes require the ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time, fine motor skills/finger dexterity, repetitive motions, vision, and some amount of physical strength. VisArts values making classes accessible to everyone, and is always happy to work with students to make accommodations when possible. Please reach out to info@visarts.org with specific questions related to accessibility or accommodations.
Classes are confirmed one week prior to the start date. In order to help us confirm classes, please register as early as possible.
Joleen Combs
I have been sewing since I was a child. My very first sewing project was an enormous heart-shaped pillow that my mother taught me to make while I was home with the chicken pox. She continued to teach me the basics as I got older and when I was in college, I took more professional instruction.
My passion in sewing is reverse engineering. I love taking an idea and tweaking it, finding ways to either duplicate an existing item or, in most cases, finding ways to make it better. I love customizing solutions to individual needs. Case in point, my Split-leg Apron class is based on an apron I designed to provide better coverage when I was throwing ceramics here at the studio.
I truly believe that everyone should have at least a basic understanding of sewing and construction and absolutely LOVE teaching these skills to newbies. Personally, I learn best by doing so all my classes are designed to teach basic techniques through finished projects.
When I’m not in the Fiber studio, you can usually find me in the Glass or Ceramics studios. I love VisArts and am thrilled to be a part of the team!