The Thrift Flip: The T-Shirt Transformation Lab

In this structured, hands-on workshop, you will learn the essential skills of garment construction by transforming a standard oversized t-shirt into a stylish two-piece matching set. Unlike an open studio, this is a guided sewing class where we move through the project together. We start with a plain "blank canvas" and end with a custom-fitted cropped top and matching shorts or skirt.

This class is designed specifically to be an entry point into the world of sewing. If you have never touched a sewing machine, this is the perfect place to start. T-shirt fabric is soft, forgiving, and easy to handle, which removes the intimidation factor for new makers. We will walk through every step of the process—from threading the machine for the first time to the final seam—ensuring that you feel supported and confident throughout the entire transformation.

By the end of the session, you won’t just have a new outfit; you’ll have a foundational understanding of how clothes are built. You will learn to see the potential in existing garments and gain the technical confidence to continue your upcycling journey at home. It is a focused, creative environment where sustainability meets practical skill-building.

Class Details

The T-Shirt Transformation Lab

Duration: 90 minutes

Price: $80 per seat

Dates: Wednesday, May 13th @ 6:30 PM

Skill level: Absolute beginners & up

Ideal for: People new to sewing or looking to restart confidently

This workshop is designed to provide you with a specific set of technical skills and a finished product. Here is exactly what you will take away from the session:

• Foundational Machine Skills: You will learn how to set up and operate a sewing machine, including bobbin winding and stitch selection.
• Garment Deconstruction: Master the art of "mapping" an existing garment to identify where to cut for the best fit and style.
• Working with Knit Fabrics: Gain specific techniques for sewing stretchy materials so your seams stay flat and professional.
• Elastic Waistband Construction: Learn how to measure and sew a functional, comfortable waistband for your bottoms.
• Proportional Cutting: Understand how to use your own body as a guide to create a set that is custom-tailored to your shape.
• Finishing Techniques: Learn how to clean up raw edges and hems for a garment that looks handmade, not "homemade."
• A Completed 2-Piece Outfit: You will walk out of the studio wearing or carrying a one-of-a-kind set that you created from scratch.

The group classes listed below are offered throughout May 2026. Space is limited to ensure personalized instruction—so please reserve early.

Week 1 (May 1–9):

• Tuesday, May 5 @ 6:30 PM: Intro to Sewing / Machine Basics
• Wednesday, May 6 @ 6:30 PM: The Customization Lab
• Saturday, May 9:

• 11:00 AM: The Brunch Stitch: Open Studio
• 1:00 PM: Intro to Sewing / Machine Basics
• 3:00 PM: The Tailoring & Alterations Workshop

Week 2 (May 10–16):

• Tuesday, May 12 @ 6:30 PM: Intro to Sewing / Machine Basics
• Wednesday, May 13 @ 6:30 PM: SPECIAL: The Thrift Flip: Tee to 2-Piece Set
• Saturday, May 16:

• 11:00 AM: The Brunch Stitch: Open Studio
• 1:00 PM: Intro to Sewing / Machine Basics
• 3:00 PM: SPECIAL: The Streetwear Bucket Hat

Week 3 (May 17–23):

• Tuesday, May 19 @ 6:30 PM: Intro to Sewing / Machine Basics
• Wednesday, May 20 @ 6:30 PM: SPECIAL: Hands-on Skirt Making
• Saturday, May 23:

• 11:00 AM: The Brunch Stitch: Open Studio
• 1:00 PM: Intro to Sewing / Machine Basics
• 3:00 PM: SPECIAL: Hands-on Tote Bag Making

Week 4 (May 24–31):

• Tuesday, May 26 @ 6:30 PM: Intro to Sewing / Machine Basics
• Wednesday, May 27 @ 6:30 PM: SPECIAL: Halloween in Summertime: The Cosplay Lab
• Saturday, May 30:

• 11:00 AM: The Brunch Stitch: Open Studio
• 1:00 PM: Intro to Sewing / Machine Basics
• 3:00 PM: SPECIAL: Hands-on Skirt Making

• Thursday, May 7 @ 6:30 PM: The Repair & Mending Workshop
• Thursday, May 14 @ 6:30 PM: The Repair & Mending Workshop
• Thursday, May 21 @ 6:30 PM: SPECIAL: The Repair & Mending: Upcycled Totes
• Thursday, May 28 @ 6:30 PM: The Repair & Mending Workshop

Location & Accessibility

O Street Studios

52 O Street NW, 3rd Floor, Washington, DC 20001

Located in the heart of Washington, DC
Metro: Red Line to NoMa-Gallaudet U or Green Line to Mt Vernon Sq/Convention Center — 10–12 min walk from the station.

Driving: Street parking available on O Street in-front of the studio

Building Access:

• Enter code 1995 at the door
• Go up to the 3rd floor
• Walk straight back, turn right to Suite 301A

Supplies: Machines and fabric are provided, but feel free to bring your own if you have a sewing machine.

Contact Info

For accessibility coordination, private lessons, or general questions:

📧 [email protected]

📅 Book one-on-one sessions or house calls via Calendly: https://calendly.com/sabat

I offer house calls (I’ll bring my sewing machine to you) or can meet you at a local library. Just book a time, and I’ll follow up to confirm what you want to learn and where.

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