Whether sewing is a hobby or a profession for you, everyone gets in a rut sometimes. Lots of factors in our lives – stressful jobs, relationships, money, health – can affect the motivation, ability, and skills we have to keep doing the activities we love. The great news is, reinvigorating and refocusing yourself can be as easy as putting yourself in good company! Whether you are a complete beginner looking to take up a new hobby or a life long crafter, there are always new skills to learn and polish, and there are always people who will join you! If you’re feeling the need for a shake-up in your routine this winter, why not find or reconnect with a community of sewers? Social sewing is the perfect way to improve your skills and have fun!
Wherever you are, there are likely lots of classes and other group opportunities that will fit your schedule and budget. Having trouble finding them? Here are some suggestions for finding classes or group settings that will turn sewing solo into socializing:
- Fabric Stores and Sewing Machine Vendors: Many fabric and crafting stores such as these offer regular classes for all different skill levels. I took my very first sewing class at the age of 10 in a Jo-Ann Fabrics, and I felt like a kid in a candy store. The great thing about classes here is that it’s a one-stop-shop! You have all of the supplies, patterns, machines, and experts under one roof. These classes are also designed for the extra-curricular crafter, so sessions are often on weekends to accommodate people’s work schedules.
- Design/Sewing Specialty Schools: If you live near a more urban area, you will likely be able to find actual specialty instructional institutions dedicated to sewing. Places like this, while probably a little pricier, are likely to have a wide variety of community courses to choose from. This is a great choice for the more experienced sewer who might be looking to learn or refine a more specific skill.
- Meet-up Groups: Meet-up groups exist for everything, it really is amazing. Joining is free, and you can easily search for and connect with a group of people in your area who share your interests and are already doing something about it! Meet-up groups tend to be very open and welcoming to new members, and often the only cost associated is the supplies. Can’t find a group in your area that fits the bill? Get the ball rolling and start one yourself! Chances are, there are people out there just like you that are looking for the opportunity to get together for some good quality sewing time.
- Local Community Colleges/Universities: If you have one of these in your area, browse through their course catalogue to see what they might offer. If you have a day job, look to their continuing education and evening classes to find one that fits your schedule. A community college is also likely to have smaller student fee associated with single courses than a 4-year university would.
- Online classes/Instructional Videos: Maybe you’d rather learn from the comfort of your (or a friend’s) home. Recruit some of your pals, grab a bottle of wine, and explore the smorgasbord of information that is the World Wide Web. You will be shocked at how many detailed instructional videos and tutorials you can find (both paid and free). Whether you would like a multi-session curriculum led by an instructor, or you want to browse YouTube for instructional videos on specific skills, chances are you will be able to find exactly what you’re looking for. Why not have each member of your group take turns picking the tutorial (and bringing the snacks) for the week?
As always, any time you make something new, be sure to finish it off with a personal clothing label! Maybe your group can pick a name for themselves and create a fun custom label together to commemorate your collaboration…
