Garment Sewing – Master Techniques
We’re thrilled to announce our upcoming Virtual Conference: Garment Sewing – Master Techniques, featuring six powerhouse (2-hr) classes taught by some of the most sought-after educators in the industry. These top-rated instructors, who have wowed attendees at our in-person events, are ready to help you elevate your garment sewing skills to an entirely new level.
No flights, no hotels, no travel stress—just world-class sewing education delivered straight to you. And the best part? You don’t have to attend live to enjoy it. Every session will be recorded and available for an entire month, so you can learn at your own pace—whether that’s from your sewing room, your couch, or in your favorite pajamas with a snack in hand.
Here’s the talent powering this year’s Fall Virtual Conference…
Roadmapping Your Fit Preferences (Susan Lazear)
Thursday, September 4 | 10am-12pm CT
Susan will present Roadmapping Your Fit Preferences – understanding your unique fit preferences will make a world of difference in your satisfaction with the garments you sew, and an end to putting time, effort, and money into something you won’t end up wearing. In this class, you will learn to analyze your body and garment measurements to understand your personal fit preferences better. This knowledge is valuable because it will guide you in creating clothing that feels comfortable for you. Whether you’re designing your own patterns, drafting by hand, or modifying commercial patterns, knowing your fit preferences will help you make wise choices. A worksheet handout will be provided for your use after the class.
Susan Lazear is a Professor of Fashion at San Diego Mesa College. She is a recognized author and wearable artist, specializing in mixed media. Susan owns Cochenille Design Studio which develops software and design aids for sewers and knitters. She has taught fashion and design workshops around the world.
Go-To Jacket Details (Marla Kazell)
Thursday, September 4 | 2pm-4pm CT
Marla presents Go-To Jacket Details. Jackets are key to putting a complete look together, and the details make the difference.
Marla’s forty years of experience in sewing professionally includes serving as technical advisor for the book, “Couture: The Art of Fine Sewing” by Roberta Carr (a classic!) and creating and teaching the Palmer/Pletsch Couture Workshop for 10 years. Her work is truly exceptional!
Master Shirt & Blouse Sleeve Plackets (Pam Howard)
Friday, September 5 | 10am-12pm CT
Pam is presenting Master Shirt & Blouse Sleeve Plackets. Many garment sewists avoid patterns that have plackets on shirts and blouses. Using Pam’s techniques, you will no longer need to avoid them and will take pride in your ability to master this challenge and create beautiful garments.
Pam is the owner of Pamela’s Closet. She has a B.S. degree in Textiles, Clothing, & Business and started a custom clothing business in 1994 making suits and sportswear. She quickly realized it was important to her to pass along her knowledge and soon began to teach others the skills and techniques of garment making.
Techniques for Copying Your Favorite Garments (Suzy Furrer)
Friday, September 5 | 2pm-4pm CT
Suzy will showcase Techniques for Copying Your Favorite Garments. We’ve all been there, struggling to part with a beloved piece of clothing that has seen better days, and just can’t let go! Learn three different ways to reproduce existing garments.
Suzy is the Founder and Director of Apparel Arts, which has trained hundreds of students who are now employed in the apparel and costuming sectors. Her expertise extends to corporate training, and she has been an instructor for employees at Pixar and Lucas Films.
Efficient Work Flow in Pants Fitting (Jennifer Stern)
Saturday, September 6 | 10am-12pm CT
Jennifer introduces Efficient Work Flow in Pants Fitting. Have you been caught in a cycle of endless adjustments while searching for the perfect-fitting pants? Your search can end now! We’ll start by discussing how to choose the best pattern and size to begin with as we learn to create a pants muslin. When we finish, you will have a step-by-step checklist to make your pants-fitting process easier in any style of pants.
Jennifer is the owner and designer at J Sterm Designs. She has a solid background in pattern design and drafting, fit, and construction. Her original line of fashion patterns features classic jeans, so fitting pants is her specialty.
Secrets for Sewing Sheer Art-to-Wear (Katrina Walker)
Saturday, September 6 | 2pm-4pm CT
Katrina will present Secrets for Sewing Sheer Art-to-Wear. Take your creative garment ideas up a notch by learning how to create artful pieces from sheer fabrics. This “practical yet pretty” class is full of beautifully reversible decorative construction techniques. Learn how to create stained-glass-like art panels for jackets and blouses from readily available artwork. Sew seams that are gorgeous inside and out. If you’ve been unsure how to work with sheer fabrics, you’ll love all the tips and tricks for planning your project and handling these special textiles.
Katrina was the 2024 Sewing Hall of Fame inductee and is a sewing industry pro whose work is regularly featured in sewing magazines. She is a popular instructor, as well as being a national educator for Husqvarna Viking and PFAFF sewing machines, a PFAFF Brand Ambassador, and a Sulky Sewcialite.
Great news! Our virtual conference class fees are staying the same — no price increase! Each class is still just $35, and when you register for all six, you’ll only pay for five. Plus, you’ll get a full month to watch (and rewatch!) every class at your own pace.
**Registration will be open soon.
