Sewing Foundations - The Madrid Tote

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Sewing Foundations: The Madrid Tote

Have you been wanting to learn to sew but weren't sure where to begin? This is your starting point.

In this beginner-friendly workshop, we'll learn to sew together, using the Madrid Tote as our guide. From threading your machine to cutting your fabric and working through your essential beginner sewing techniques, every step of this class is designed to build your confidence and give you skills you'll carry into every project you make from here.

In this workshop you will:

  • Get to know your sewing machine, its components, tension, stitch length, stitch width, and how to use them together
  • Learn how to read and use a beginner-friendly accessory pattern with no fitting required
  • Discover how to properly lay out and cut your fabric
  • Practice several essential beginner sewing techniques
  • Complete a beautiful, functional tote bag you made yourself

If you've been wanting to start sewing but haven't known where to begin, this is where we start.

Included in Class

  • The Madrid PDF pattern (must be printed and assembled prior to class)
  • Following each class, you will receive a recording of the session, which will be available for 30 days

Class Supplies

    All materials, supplies, and tools must be provided by the student.

    Pattern

  • The Madrid PDF pattern, printed and assembled
  • Fabric & Materials

    You can choose to make view 1, which uses the same fabric throughout the bag, or View 2, which uses a contrast fabric for the pockets.

  • View 1: 1 meter or 1.25 yards of medium to heavy-weight denim, waxed cotton, light to mid-weight canvas, oilcloth.
  • View 2: 0.6 meters or 3/4 yards of self fabric, 1/2 meter or yard of contrasting fabric.
  • Scrap fabric to practice stitching
  • 3.5 meters or 3.8 yards of 1.25 wide webbing for the bag straps
  • Polyester thread - consider if you want to use a contrasting colour
  • Machine & Equipment

  • Sewing machine
  • Iron and ironing surface
  • Size 16 "denim" or "jeans" sewing machine needle
  • Supplies & Tools

  • Fabric scissors
  • Pins
  • Seam ripper
  • Measuring tape
  • Tailor's chalk
  • Ruler
  • Masking tape or washi tape

Who This Class Is For

This class is for the absolute beginner. If you need guidance in learning how to sew up and use your sewing machine, and tackle your first sewing pattern.

We will be making the Madrid tote bag, a large, versatile carry-all tote bag with side pockets, boxed corners, and webbing straps. The techniques involved in this project are perfect for introducing the beginner sewist to many foundational skills.

What You’ll Learn

In this workshop you will:

  • Get to know your sewing machine, its components, tension, stitch length, stitch width, and how to use them together
  • Learn how to read and use a beginner-friendly accessory pattern, no fitting required
  • Discover how to properly lay out and cut your fabric
  • Practice several essential beginner sewing techniques
  • Complete a beautiful, functional tote bag you made yourself

  • Techniques

  • Edge finishing
  • Reinforced stitching
  • Single turned hem
  • Double turned hem
  • Boxed corners

Virtual Class Details:

    This is a live, online workshop taught by me, Kristiann, streaming directly from my home sewing studio. Class sizes are kept small so I can give each participant individualized guidance and real-time feedback throughout each session.


    Joining the class:

  • You'll need a computer, tablet, or smartphone with a reliable internet connection. A larger screen is strongly recommended for the best visibility.
  • Classes are held on Zoom. If you don't already have it, you can download Zoom here.
  • Your Zoom link and password will be emailed the day before the first session to the address provided at checkout. Please double-check your email address when registering.


    Camera Setup:

  • An overhead close-up view of the work surface
  • A dedicated camera focused on the sewing machine
  • A face-to-face camera for demonstrations and conversation


    Recordings & Catch-Up

    Each session is recorded. If you fall behind during class or need to miss a session, recordings are available for review for 30 days following the final workshop date.


    Class Policies & Cancellations

    Please review our full class policies before registering, including cancellation and refund terms.