FAQ
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No! We will teach you based on your incoming skill level from beginner to advanced.
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No! We have plenty. We recommend starting on our machines. Adult students may bring their own machines for any class. Youth students may bring their own machines after completing Beginning Sewing.
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We recommend the Brother XR9550, or SQ9285. These machines cost less than $250 and provide all the accessories you need to get started. They also have a speed control feature, making them great for beginners. Another option is the Janome MOD-15. Whichever machine you choose, make sure you select the bobbins for that brand.
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You don’t need any tools in order to take classes with us. However, if you are setting up to sew at home we recommend the following tools: A good quality seam ripper. Long straight pins, 2”+. A pin cushion (magnetic is what we prefer). A pair of scissors used only for fabric (cutting paper dulls the blades). A fabric marking tool: tailors chalk, water soluble ink, or a fabric pencil. Optional: A rotary cutter, self-healing mat, and quilting ruler. We have curated a full list of suggested starter supplies on Amazon.
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Stitch Central is a local, woman owned, fabric shop in Glenside. They have amazing cottons and yarns. https://www.mystitchcentral.com
Cut and Sew PHL is a local, woman owned, fabric shop in Mt Airy. Donated fabric is resold at a steep discount. Cut & Sew PHL has the largest selection of Kona Cotton in the Tri-State Area. https://cutandsewphl.com
Needles & Bolts is a local, woman owned, fabric shop in Mt Airy. Amazing quilting cotton and hand sewing items in stock. https://www.needlesandbolts.com
Gaffney Fabrics in Germantown has great pricing and sells dead stock fabric, which creates a lower environmental footprint than traditional stores. Some fabrics are always in stock, and others are available on a hit-or-miss basis. https://www.gaffneyfabrics.com
Jomar’s carries only dead stock fabric, and you can get great deals, however it is always a rotating stock. https://jomarstores.com