Our sewing and fiber arts work area provides sewing machines, a serger, an embroidery machine, a range of sewing accessories and tools, and a selection of donated fabric. In addition of operating a sewing machine, our offerings to members include other fiber arts, such as embroidery, crocheting and leather working.
Questions can be directed to the sewing area manager, Leah Farrar, at sewing@rocmakers.org.
Upcoming Classes (members only)
Introduction to Sewing
Maximum Students: 3 Duration: 3 hrs Prerequisites: None
Class description
Learn to use a sewing machine through a drawstring bag or messenger bag project. Students will learn to thread and operate their sewing machine, discussing common errors. Students will then measure, cut and iron fabric pieces, and construct their bags. All materials and machines are provided, but students may bring their own fabric and machines if they prefer.
Introduction to the Embroidery Machine
Maximum Students: 2 Duration: 2 hrs Prerequisites: None
Class description
This class will teach you to embroider with the Brother PE900 Embroidery Machine, and how to make an embroidery file using Ink/Stitch in Inkscape. Students will hoop fabric with stabilizer, thread the machine, and run embroidery files. The class will also discuss what handling errors and embroidery design flaws can cause needle breaks and other faults.
***NEW*** Introduction to Hand Embroidery
Maximum Students: 4 Duration: 2 hrs Prerequisites: None
Class description
Curious about embroidery for visibly mending clothes, making iron-on badges, personalizing your backpack, or making art? Don’t know how to get started? Learn five basic stitches, how to keep your fabric tight and your floss untangled, and what makes an embroidery needle distinct from the one in your sewing kit, while enjoying a laid-back gathering around the Makerspace couches. Makers interested in the embroidery machine may find this class useful as well, as many machine projects require filling in small areas with hand stitching.
Introduction to Leather Working
Maximum Students: 4 Duration: 2 hrs Prerequisites: None
Class description
In this class, you’ll learn the basics of leatherworking. You’ll learn about the essential tools and materials needed for a leather project and practice a host of skills hands-on by making a wallet out of high-quality Vegetable-tanned English bridal leather. Introduction to Laser Cutting preferred but not required.