About

This class has been canceled.

Learn how to sew a classic shift dress with A Way We Sew! You’ll learn how to adjust for fit, efficient layout and cutting techniques, and how to insert a stylish lapped zipper in just a few simple seams. You’ll also learn the ‘burrito’ method for shapely, gap-free armholes and smooth, lined necklines. We’ll add a vent at the back skirt for a classic, dressed-up touch. 

You will be able to apply your new sewing skills to many garments and learn the stress-free, fun, and rewarding side of sewing. Course includes professionally illustrated handouts and step-by-step video tutorials, as well as live class sessions. You’ll have the confidence to sew a classic, flattering dress in wool, brocade, or any woven fabric. 

Session 1: Orientation : January 29th, 2 hours - Online via Zoom

• Overview of class, introduce fitting, overview supplies, pattern. Practice lapped zippers.
• Skills you will learn: fit considerations, pattern adjustments, fabric suggestions, cutting layout, interfacing, practice sewing lapped zipper with sample kit 

Session 2: Skill building: February 5th, 2 hours at BARN 

• We will review cutting, interfacing. dart sewing, fit issues. Open studio time to cut your pattern, applying interfacing, insert lap zipper, fit and sewn darts. 
• Skills you will learn: how to insert lapped zipper, make a back vent, and check your fit.

Session 3: Getting your shift together: Feb 12th, 2 hours Instructor will be online. Students may come to BARN to watch and finish your project in a work party.

• Time to get your shift together. Learn to add vent in lining, follow up fit, blind hem if not lining. See a demo of “burrito” armhole lining, fix fit issues. 
• Skills you will learn: sewing a neckline and armholes, using the burrito/all-in-one technique, and hemming.

Students need to supply:

Pattern: https://www.stylearc.com/shop/sewing-patterns/sussex-dress/

• See pattern sheet for yardage and recommended fabrics. Woolen, linen, bouche
• Lining: 2 yards bemberg, rayon or silk charmeuse. 
• Zipper: 18”-22” or as pattern indicates for your size, YKK dress zipper #3

Practice Kit for the Lapped Zipper https://www.awaywesew.com/product-page/lapped-zipper-with-a-lining-lesson 

Purchase the practice kit for $15.00, plus shipping, directly from the instructor by clicking here.  The kit has everything needed to practice inserting a lapped zipper, including step-by-step illustrated instructions and a link to a video tutorial. Students are encouraged to watch the video prior to class. Please be sure to order your kits by Monday, January 19th to ensure your kit arrives in time for the class. 

Important Details:

• Registration closes: January 19 at 12:00 pm. Cancellations for a refund or credit will not be accepted after January 19th.
• Skill Level:  Advanced Beginner
• A Zoom link will be sent one day before the first session to the email address you registered with. Please watch for this email. You may need to check your spam folder.

• Please click here for BARN's current COVID-19 health & safety protocols. 

• Tuition assistance is available. Click here before you register to fill out our simple form.  

Instructor Bio:

Leah Boyan is thrilled to contribute to the BARN Fiber Arts Studio. She has taught online and in person at Esther’s Fabrics on Bainbridge Island. She's also a national sewing speaker, having presented at the Virtual 2020 American Sewing Guild National Convention and several national ASG chapters, and she is scheduled to present at the 2021 National Convention. Leah started her company, A Way We Sew, to combine her two passions: sewing and thinking about sewing. She develops and teaches innovative ways to sew faster, with fabulous results, all while having fun!