Lake Shore Public Schools

Basic Sewing: Absolute Beginners (No Fear, All Fun!)

Ever wanted to sew but felt intimidated by the machine, the terminology, or the thought of crooked seams? This class is for you. ✂️

In five relaxed, hands-on weeks, you’ll go from “Which way does the fabric go?” to confidently completing three practical projects—and actually enjoying the process.

No experience required. No perfection expected. Just real skills, useful projects, and a few laughs along the way.

Who is this class for exactly? It is perfect For

• Absolute beginners (seriously—absolute)
• Anyone who’s tried sewing and “mysteriously failed”
• Creative folks who want practical skills
• People who want to stop saying “I wish I could sew”

What You’ll Learn

• Sewing machine basics (threading, winding a bobbin, troubleshooting without panic)
• Fabric fundamentals (what to buy, what to avoid, and why)
• Cutting, pinning, pressing, and stitching straight (yes, you can!)
• Reading simple patterns and following step-by-step instructions
• Finishing techniques that make your work look polished, not homemade-ish

Projects (One Skill-Building Win at a Time)

Week 1: Instruction week. We will dive into the machine learn to wind a bobbin, thread the machine and practice stitching.

Week 2: Let the fun begin! Our first project will be a cotton pillowcase. Victory #1 learn straight seams, seam allowances, pressing, and confidence.

Week 3: Step it up with an elevated pillow cover known as an Envelope Pillowcase with overlapping closures, cleaner finishes, and fabric alignment—no zippers, no stress.

Weeks 4-5: Are you ready to challenge yourself with a Half Apron? You’ll sew a functional, wearable apron while learning waistbands, ties, and basic construction skills you’ll use again and again.

Required Tools (if you have them do not go out and purchase unless you want to I have plenty to share):

• Sewing machine in good working order (*there are 9 machines available to reserve for class, however, if you own a sewing machine you may want to get experience using that make/model instead of the school machines).
• Power cord and foot pedal (yes, both ?)
• Fabric scissors (for fabric only!)
• Straight pins
• Sewing clips
• Seam ripper (because everyone needs one)
• Measuring tape or clear ruler
• Marking tool (Heat Erasable Pen)

Materials you will need to purchase for class:

• 1 spool - 50 WT All-Purpose 100% Cotton Thread (**Recommend “Gutermann” brand) – grey or beige are the best colors to get they blend in nicely and you will not see as many wonky lines ?- polyester thread is fine, some are too slippery that’s the only reason I’m recommending 100% Cotton for a beginner class.

**Fabric Shopping – If you feel overwhelmed wait until after the first class I will bring scrap fabric free to students to use on the first day and we will discuss fabrics on the first day we can even schedule a shopping session if you’d like some one-on-one Q&A (twist my arm a little more to go fabric shopping ?)

Budget Friendly ($2.99-$12/yard):

• oMichaels
• oWalmart
• oHobby Lobby

Local quilt shops ($12-$20/yard):

• oSew Many Things Sewing Center - 37095 S Groesbeck Hwy, Clinton Township, MI 48036
• oTime Remembered Quilting - 16701 21 Mile Rd, Macomb, MI 48044
• o2nd Street Quilt Shop - 116 W 2nd St, Rochester, MI 48307
• Shopping online a few quality brands to look for:
• oRiley Blake (if you like whimsical)
• oTilda (expensive but so fun)
• oModa
• oHoffman
• oTula Pink

(*Note: Avoid “Batik” fabric it’s not as forgiving might not be the best choice for a beginner)

Project 1: Pillowcase

• 1 yard (36” x 42”) Cotton (Quilting cotton is perfect for beginners)

Project 2: Envelope Pillow

• 1 yard (36” x 42”) of cotton (Sized for a standard 18" pillow insert)

Project 3: Half Apron (Final Project)

• 1–1½ yards of 100% Cotton Duck Canvas, 10 oz, at 58” Wide
• Optional: ½ yard of coordinating fabric for pockets or ties (also in 100% Cotton Duck Canvas)
• Hobby Lobby has a great selection of Duck Canvas.

Pre-Class Tips:

✔ Choose 100% cotton woven fabric
✔ Quilting cotton is perfect for beginners

Please Avoid for This Class

✘ Stretch fabrics (knits, jersey, spandex)
✘ Slippery fabrics (Batik, silk, satin, rayon challis)
✘ Very thick fabrics (upholstery, heavy denim)