HOUSEHOLD SEWING FOR BEGINNERS
WITH MICHELLE MARIE
Saturday, September 19th, 2026
9:00am - 5:00pm
Learn to make practical, beautiful fabric items for your home! This class is designed for absolute beginners, and is also recommended for folks with some sewing experience who 1) have found sewing machines frustrating and/or 2) aren't quite sure how to make the household items they want to make.
In this class, you will:
Learn to use your sewing machine correctly for a frustration-free experience.
Learn basic sewing concepts and foundational skills in a supportive, zero-stakes environment.
Be guided through the process of making samples of up to four simple household items that are representative of countless other useful and practical items: dish towel, quilted coaster, drawstring bag, zipper pouch. In other words, making these items will provide an excellent foundation for making just about any household items made of fabric.
As time permits, make additional items of your choice with expert support available when you need it.
Class Details
Age Requirement: this class is for adults and youth 12-17 if their parent or guardian is also registered for the class.
Location: Corvallis Museum
Students bring: Sewing machine* in good working order** and its cord/pedal; its manual if you have it; any bits and pieces that came with the machine; thread if you have it; thread scissors/fabric shears/pins/seam ripper/measuring tape if you have them.
Precut fabric (same or similar to samples pictured) will be provided for sample making; a limited selection of fabric for additional items can be purchased on-site, or you’re welcome to bring your own. If bringing your own fabric, bring woven (as in, not stretchy) cotton fabric that has already been washed and dried. Repurposed/upcycled options are welcome, and if you’re not sure about a fabric’s suitability, bring it anyway; expert guidance will be available.
*"If you don't have a sewing machine, we may be able to provide a loaner machine. Parents and children who register together will need two sewing machines (one for every participant). Contact Michelle to inquire: fifthgensewing@gmail.com.
**If you have a machine you’re not sure of, Michelle offers sewing machine checkup/fix in a 1:1 session; visit bit.ly/fifthgen to check availability.
Tuition: $100
Materials fee: $25 (Additional fabric for optional projects can be brought with you (wash and dry it ahead of time) or purchased from the teacher during class. Please reach out with questions)
Please email info@tarweedfolkschool.com to join the waitlist for a sold out class.
Accessibility note: must be able to manipulate small items, operate simple tools, see fine details (e.g. threading a needle), and safely operate a sewing machine.
Need a scholarship to attend a class? We offer full and half tuition awards (scholarships do not apply to class materials fee). Email info@tarweedfolkschool.com to register.
Tarweed Folk School values increasing access to practical arts and place-based skills. Our goal is to make our classes accessible to anyone with an interest in learning. Please consider that our classrooms take place inside and outdoors with varying amenities (think of parking, seating, walking surfaces, and bathroom options, for example). We are happy to provide any information or answer any questions about accessibility or accommodations for any of our classes and locations. Please email us if you have comments, concerns, or questions.
