As some readers might know from reading the “You Reap What You Sew” story in the GT Fashion Issue, I’ve been taking sewing classes this year at Judy’s Sewing Center in Capitola. Judy Hollaway, owner of the store, teaches the class that I attend every week on Tuesdays from 6-9 p.m. The class is called “Learn to Sew,” and that is exactly what I have been doing. Hollaway has been sewing for pretty much her entire life, and I’d say she’s among the best seamstresses in the Bay Area. That said, taking a class with her is revolutionary if you want to genuinely learn how to sew—not just make a nice project for the day. Sure, you’ll make amazing pillowcases, lounge pants, vests, tote bags, buttoned up shirts and so on in her classes, but the key is that she’s teaching students of all skill levels the very important elements of sewing. She doesn’t cut any corners. You’ll learn the essentials: Laying out a pattern, cutting a pattern, how much yardage to buy, where to cut your fabric, how to do a button hole, how to apply snaps, zippers, elastic, darts, baby hems, zig zag stitch, how to use a serger and an endless list of important things to know when sewing. I can’t recommend her classes enough for people who are interested in sewing, or who can sew, but don’t know foundational techniques. With that said, I’m going to start writing some blogs about my experiences in Hollaway’s weekly classes. This week, I’ll also start to take garment construction classes with Dresden Erickson, also at Judy’s Sewing Center. I’ll post about what I’m learning, musings on the craft of sewing and any tips that I learn. Stay tuned.
.Sewing Class
