BLTS on Etsy

Ins and Outs of Commercial Patterns
Intro to the Machine

The Ins and Outs of Commercial Patterns


Cost: $150
$10 extra to rent a machine.
Four class series limited to 6 students.
Four Tuesdays, May 8-29 pm, 6-9 pm–1 space left
Four Thursdays, May 10-31, 6-9 pm–full, email info@betterlivingthroughsewing@yahoo.com to get on the wait list.
Four Saturdays, June 2-23, 2-5 pm–5 spaces left
Four Saturdays, July 7-28, 2-5 pm–6 spaces left

Level: Beginner/Advanced Beginner
Prerequisite: No prior sewing experience required. Perfect for beginners.

Class description: This comprehensive class is perfect for total beginners, those needing a brush-up, and those who want to venture into the world of garment-making. First, we’ll go over the attachments and tools used in garment sewing, how to sew a straight seam, backstitch, machine tension and troubleshooting. You’ll learn how to take your measurements and purchase the correct pattern for your size, determine the yardage needed, and choose a zipper and notions. Fabric types will be discussed: Knits vs. wovens, fiber types and that confusing term, “nap”!

In the second session you’ll make any needed pattern alterations, then you’ll learn pattern layout and cutting techniques. In the 3rd and 4th sessions you’ll construct and finish a simple skirt or pair of pants including zipper installation, darts, fine-tuning the fit, and hemming. You’ll leave with a completed garment and the skills to make more!

Before registering, please read my cancellation/refund policies here.

Pattern Class Options

Intro to the Machine


Ellie Marcus's pillows from Intro to the Machine

One-session class limited to 6 students. Choose from the following:
Sunday May 6, 2-5 pm–6 spaces left
Monday May 14, 6-9 pm–6 spaces left
Saturday May 26, 2-5 pm–6 spaces left
Wednesday May 30, 6-9 pm–6 spaces left

Level: Beginner
Cost: $55; $5 extra to rent a machine

Class description: In this beginner-level class, you’ll learn sewing machine threading, operation, troubleshooting and the most often-used presser feet. We’ll go over the differences in needle and thread types, how to sew a perfectly straight seam and turn corners, backstitch, and finish and press seams. You’ll learn to make a pillow cover, and leave with skills to get you started on more projects!

April classes

May classes