Thursdays starting June 7th      6-8 pm

English smocking is a form of hand embroidery that is worked on fabric that has been pleated. With knowledge of only a few basic stitches, a beginner can create a large variety of geometric designs. Even the more advanced technique of picture smocking is simply stacking rows of the most basic stitch--the cable--one on top of the other.

Experience the joy of this time-honored hand sewing technique while learning the basic stitches and techniques, proper needles, thread, and fabric.  No prior experience is necessary. Our experience with this class shows that once students begin to learn, they want more! We will schedule a subsequent advanced smocking class when requested by the students.

When: This 2 week class starts on Thursday, June 7th from 6:00 - 8:00 pm.

Cost: $32.50 and includes a starting kit with pleated fabric, smocking needle, and embroidery floss.

Instructor: Amy Suter

Thursdays starting June 28th    6 - 8:30 pm

White, airy, flowing, "Beach Portrait" Dresses are a "must have" right now for summer pictures, beach weddings, or just plain gorgeous portraits. In this class you will make a gorgeous, classic white heirloom sundress as the PERFECT dress for this year, as well as treasured for future generations.

This pattern mimics the Strasburg Children's Company Sundress (an exclusive and very expensive heirloom clothing retailer) and can be custom designed with pretty Swiss/Victorian embroidery, lace, trims, entredeux, beading, edging, ribbons - whatever you choose to embellish the bodice, skirt ruffles, and hemline....at a fraction of the retail price!

Amy will take you through this pattern teaching you heirloom sewing techniques with detailed instructions and trim placement guidelines.  Use with 100% cotton batiste or broadcloth, or for a no-iron solution use an Imperial Batiste (65%polyester/35%cotton). Come in to the shop to see Amy's lovely sample and I know you will fall in love with this. We certainly did, enough to have this class!  General sewing knowledge is a prerequisite for this class.

When: This 3 week class starts June 28th from 6:00 - 8:30 pm.

Class fee is $43.50 plus pattern, fabric, laces and trims.

Instructor is Amy Suter. 

Saturdays starting June 23rd      12 - 2 pm

You will feel so special when you wear this lovely creation, which Peggy Dilbone has designed. This beautiful and FAST nightgown is made with Victorian embroideries, insertion laces, lace edgings, and silk ribbon. You will be surprised how easy it is to make this nightgown either on the sewing machine or on the serger using a 3-thread rolled edge. Make it up in cool and crisp, 100% Cotton Batiste in white, pink, blue or yellow or for a no-iron option use our Imperial Batiste (65% poly/35% cotton blend) in white or ivory. 

Included with this class is the BONUS pattern directions for the lovely French Sewn Pillowcase using matching laces and ribbons. High-end exclusive lingerie shops charge over $165 for this quality of nightgown. You can make it for a fraction of the retail cost. General sewing knowledge is a prerequisite for this class.

When: 2-3 week class starts Saturday June 23rd from 12 -2 pm

Class Fee is $43.50 plus cost of pattern, fabric, trims, laces, etc. Kits will be available upon request. 

Instructor: Amy Suter.  



This class may be scheduled subsequent to the conclusion of Beginning Smocking.
Don't you just love those adorable pictures on smocked items and wondered how they do that? Let Amy teach you the advanced stitches and techniques to make these precious scenes. Beginning smocking class or equivalent skill level is necessary.
Cost: $33 plus small kit fee

Amy Suter

We are not currently offering this class during the summer.

A perfect introduction to sewing a dress where the students continue on from the Beginning Smocking class and construct the entire girl's bishop dress with various sleeves alternatives. Beginning smocking class or equivalent skill level is necessary.
Cost: $39 plus fabrics, thread and pattern.

Smocking Instructor: Amy Suter

We are not currently offering this class during the summer.

Learn to create the basic stitches that are required for pretty and charming baby outfits, pillows, wall hangings, and quilts. Preparing your fabrics, transferring patterns and finishing touches will all be taught. This is an ideal project for a lazy summer evening.
Cost $30 

Instructor: Amy Suter

We are not currently offering this class during the summer.

This technique class will become your reference guide for future heirloom sewing. Kay designed this class for those beginning as well as those needing a refresher course.

You will learn to sew lace, beading, entredeux, & embroideries, make pin tucks, roll & whip, and other heirloom stitches. You'll be amazed how easy it is to create many exquisite projects. Some sewing experience is necessary.
Cost: $35 plus materials

Instructor: Kay Nickell