Sewing with Jaskamal: 4 session Beginners Series November 2nd - 23rd

What's the vibe?

These classes centre individual style, gender expression, and specific clothing alterations for 2SLGBTQIA+ people. I strive to create a more accessible learning experience, and centre our community in the process. Allies are welcome! We appreciate you being in our lives!

This series of lessons are for beginners who don't know anything about machine sewing, and for people who have some experience, but don't know how to alter clothes.

Class dates for this series are Monday November 2nd, 9th, 16th and 23rd.

Beyond the in person lessons you will have lifetime access to a sewing resource drive, and an open invitation to all future drop in sessions.

This way you can continue to learn independently and connect with your cohort and past alumni in person!

Do I need a sewing kit?

No, you will be provided a sewing kit with the following tools (notions):

• Fabric squares
• Thread snips
• Sewing pins
• Pin cushion
• Seam ripper
• Tailors chalk
• Tailors measuring tape
• Pencil

The following items will be at each sewing station for you to borrow:

• Cutting mat and rotary cutter
• Magnetic pin cushion
• Clip on light
• Extension cord

I will provide the following items when needed:

• Shared iron and arm size board
• Rotary cutters
• Thread
• Extra machine needles
• Wax paper for piece pattern making

Communication:

Once you have registered here, you can expect a follow up e-mail with all the time sensitive information.

I use e-mail and messaging apps to communicate, and send direct messages through my Instagram when possible.

Also, I will be sending you reminder emails from [email protected] with the seam ripping homework, links to important instructional examples, and upcoming drop-ins.

I am always happy to answer questions on my plussizefitsgibsons Instagram account or by email [email protected].

What if I miss the first lesson?

If you need to schedule lesson 1 before the series begins so you don't fall behind, please contact me right away. This make up class costs the same as the lessons in the series if you have registered on Eventbrite. All other make up classes are $75 - $100 each, and must be scheduled within two weeks of the originally scheduled class you are missing.

Lesson Summaries & What to Bring:

Lesson 1: Machine overview and how to hem non-stretch fabrics.

How to thread your machine, set tensions, pick the correct weight of thread, needle, fabric and notions for your project. Learning the purpose of different basic stitches on your machine. Practicing your stitches and pedal work. Learn how to sew hems for jeans, chinos, and other non-stretch garments. This can be very simple, and saves you time and money. It is the most common sewing task I need done, and the most common ask I have received in my years of sewing.

You will need:

• A pair of bottoms or a shirt that you want taken up (hemmed). If you have less stretchy or not stretchy garments bring those.
• If you only have stretchy garments to work with you will need a Universal Stretch or Ballpoint sewing machine needle, and a steady pedal speed. This is usually material that sews well on interlocking (serger) machines not basic sewing machines.
• Thread of matching or similar colour to the garment.
• A sewing machine. If you don't have one you can borrow one, or sign one out at the library.
• What garment you intend to take out next week so we can assess if you need to buy fabric.

Lesson 2: How to take it out. Let's make it bigger!

This lesson will teach you how to add panels to shirts, dresses, or pants to make them fit. I will teach you how to use salvage material from the garment itself, or a fabric that compliments or matches the garment to add panels in a flattering way.

You will need:

• A garment you wish to make a size or two larger. I suggest a long sleeve shirt, draw string or pajama pants, basic shape skirt or dress. If the garment doesn't have long sleeves to remove, or significant extra length to take from, then you will need a complimentary or matching weight of fabric that looks well with the garment. 1/2 a yard for shirts, and a yard for dresses and pants.
• A sewing machine. If you don't have one you can borrow one, or sign one out at the library.
• Thread of matching or similar colour to the garment.
• The garment you plan to sew a zipper onto in Lesson 4. I will need to see it for measurements and the size of zipper needed in case I don't have the correct zipper for you and need to order one.

Lesson 3: Taking in those bottoms.

So, those jeans, chinos, work pants, dress pants, skirts, or shorts are too big? That is great, because taking it in is what this lesson is all about!

You will need:

• A garment like those mentioned above to take in. Look for something with belt loops.
• A sewing machine. If you don't have one you can borrow one, or sign one out at the library.
• Machine needle that suits the fabric you're sewing (refer to chart from lesson one, or ask me)
• Thread of matching or similar colour to the garment.

Lesson 4: Zippers!

We will learn about different zippers and their uses, as well as how to replace a zipper. Please bring the garment you will be replacing the zipper for to the second lesson. I will provide the correct zipper for you, but I may have to order one if I, or Stitch and Bobbin don't have it in stock.

You will need:

• A garment that needs a new zipper.
• A sewing machine. If you don't have one you can borrow one, or sign one out at the library.
• A zipper foot for your model of sewing machine. (I will send a chart of different types of sewing machine feet)
• Thread of matching or similar colour to the garment.
• A machine needle suitable for your garment. (Refer to your chart from lesson 1, or ask me)

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