Machine Sewing 101

Learn sewing machine basics, stitches, threading, tension, best practices, and more! Leave with a sampler, PDF guide and confidence.

Students will leave this class with the foundation for utilizing a standard home sewing machine. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking for a refresher, this workshop will teach you all the ins and outs of a standard home sewing machine. We’ll use the Shoreline Tool Library’s sewing machines to explore questions like…

• How do sewing machines work?
• When should I use each stitch?
• What’s a bobbin and how do I thread it?
• Why do all the parts have funny names?
• What’s the deal with the tension?
• Is this thing I heard about sewing a rule or a guideline?
• How soon can I make my dream project?
• And so much more!

You’ll come away with an understanding of machine sewing best practices, a stitch sampler, a PDF with all the information we cover in class, and the confidence to start tackling some projects.

About the instructor, Jennifer Yasis and Cinthia Marisol: Jen has been sewing for years, from simple garments, quilts, bags, pillows and accessories from patterns or reconstructing what she sees. She enjoys sharing what she's learned to help others build confidence in their skills in a supportive, encouraging environment. Cinthia Marisol, (they/elle), is a two spirit queer writer and interdisciplinary artist. They are inspired by soft sculpture and fiber arts, having developed skills in machine sewing, embroidery, and approaches to experimental projects using recycled materials.

This class is a part of our Fabrics and Fibers Skill Series, which includes 12 classes and 1 event that hope to give you the opportunity to learn a variety of textile-based skills.

Our sliding scale for classes helps to reduce barriers for participation while retaining sufficient income for Seattle REconomy, which owns and operates the NE Seattle and Shoreline tool libraries. Please choose the level that best fits your family’s income.

ACCESSIBILITY:

• The venue is wheelchair accessible and has an all-gender restroom. The restroom is ADA compliant.
• Non-English and ASL interpreters are not provided at our classes and events, however attendees are welcome to bring their own interpreters.
• Please contact us with any accessibility notes or requests.

GETTING THERE:

• By transit: Served by King County Metro bus Rapid Ride E Line on Aurora Ave N and N 165th.
• By bike: The venue is located one block west of the Interurban Trail. Shoreline Light Rail stations are each about 2 miles away. A bicycle rack is available outside the building.
• Car parking: There is an asphalt parking lot that fits up to 20 cars. There is one ADA van accessible parking space with an access aisle.

Children are welcome at some classes with their parent or guardian on a case-by-case basis, either as a student or as an observer. If you would like your child to attend a class with you, please email info@seattlereconomy.org with their age and experience. Let us know if they will be a student or an observer, the name and date of the class, and we will determine if it is appropriate.