Class Offerings
Summer 2025
Classes begin week of June 9

Bias Basics Workshop

Garments cut on true bias drape beautifully; they are body conscious, comfortable, and flattering. In this class we will learn how to prepare a pattern for bias, proper layout, cutting and marking of a bias garment. We will learn stabilizing, pressing and construction techniques for bias and finishing techniques.

Bustier / Corselet: Draft & Sew

Learn to draft and sew a corselet or bustier. While the corselet is used as an inner layer of a garment to provide support, a bustier is an outer garment, flattering to all figures and ages. It can be worn alone, under a jacket or over a tee. It can dress up (silk, satin, velvet) or dress down (denim, tweed, suede) your outfit. We will apply bones to counteract gravity and prevent wardrobe malfunctions.

We’ll begin with an introduction to the class, reviewing the materials needed and explaining the differences between a corselet (interior garment) and bustier (exterior garment) and the different materials used to construct each. 

Using your moulage or bodice sloper as a starting point , we will draft the pattern with various necklines for your bustier or corselet. (The draft for both is the same.) You'll make a test, or muslin, to check and adjust the fit. You’ll then learn all the sewing techniques needed to complete the garment.

Drafting the Classic Shirt

Your bodice sloper is the starting point. From that you will learn to draft blouses shirts with various silhouettes. Fitted with darts, casual (no darts), and oversized variation will be included. You'll draft different yokes, a couple of collar types and various sleeves. You'll also learn to make a fold over placket and hidden placket closure Mix and match what you'd like in your perfect blouse or shirt. As always, Lynda will address different body types and guide you through fitting your garments and adjusting the pattern accordingly.

Finish It!

FINISH IT! is a 4-week class. You came up with the idea. Each of you comes to the class with a project to finish, something you need help with or motivation to complete. Peer support is part of the class.

Where does Lynda come in? You email your classmates and Lynda a few days before each class meeting with your goals for that particular class and, if stuck, where you're stuck. Lynda will think about your challenges and provide feedback to each of you during the class time, perhaps pointing you to one of the 250+ videos she has prepared on how to draft/sew projects. You'll all work together to finish one (or more) projects through the course of the 4 weeks.

Knit Bodice Sloper with Sleeve

The student will learn how to draft a basic knit bodice sloper with sleeve from measurements. We will then draft knit torso slopers in all stretch categories; minimal, moderate, very stretchy, and super stretchy. These slopers form the foundation for tops, dresses, jackets and sweaters. Students will make test garments for basic sloper and sleeve. These will be fitted and any changes will be transferred to the patterns.

This was formerly called Knits: Drafting a Torso Foundation.

Motorcycle Jacket: Draft & Sew

You will learn to draft and sew the iconic motorcycle jacket in this class. This classic style includes an asymmetrical closure, with a zipper, zippered sleeves and pockets and a convertible collar.

You'll use your jacket sloper, if you have one, or your basic sloper for a closer fit to draft the pattern, then sew a test garment to ensure a proper fit. Learn to sew all of the details, including inserting sleeve zippers with a godet, pocket with zippers, a separating front zipper, inserting lining and sewing a convertible collar. Then take your jacket out for a spin!

Silk Charmeuse Techniques

Silk charmeuse is a gorgeous fabric that has a soft, lustrous drape. It looks luxurious because it is luxurious. It can be difficult to sew with, but Lynda will teach you the techniques she uses. She'll teach you how to lay out, cut and mark your pattern, how to sew a baby hem, sew basic seams, a French dart and other tips and techniques. You'll learn all the techniques needed to sew a blouse, but won't actually sew a blouse in the class.