Class Schedule
Eastern time (EST)
- Session 1: Saturday, Oct 17 - 10–12 am This session is all about understanding how to read your commercial pattern. You'll select your size, make simple pattern modifications for better fit, learn pattern symbols and terminology, and assemble your tiled PDF pattern. We'll discuss fabric prep and cutting strategy. You'll complete your fabric prep and pattern cutting at your own pace before Session 2
- Session 2: Tuesday, Oct 20 - 6:30–8:30 pm With your pattern cut and fabric prepared, in these next two sessions we'll work through each step together as I demonstrate. Incomplete work becomes homework for the following week; you'll have access to the session recording to help you finish.
- Session 3: Saturday, Oct 24 - 10:00–12:00 am
3 sessions · 6 hours total
What You'll Make
A finished pair of Emile Pants in your choice of style: barrel leg or straight leg. While light fit modifications are made to the pattern before cutting, note that we do not cover fit extensively in the class. We will not be making a toile.Garment Description
Emile is an elastic-waist pant that's simple to sew yet full of character. With its 7/8 length, choice of straight or barrel leg, and mid-rise (Size Range 1) or high-rise (Size Range 2) waist, it offers a clean, structured silhouette. A vertical seam running along the leg defines the design, while pockets inserted between this seam and the side seam add both function and a distinctive graphic detail.Class Supplies
You'll need to provide all materials, supplies, and tools.
Fabric & Materials
- The Emile Pants pattern (not included with registration; purchase directly from the designer here.
- Fashion fabric for your finished pants (information on quantity and fabric suggestions will be given in the intro email)
- Elastic: 1 3/8" (3.5 cm) wide x your waist measurement
- All-purpose thread to match your fabric (or contrasting thread if topstitching)
Machine & Equipment
- Sewing machine with straight stitch and zigzag stitch (a serger can be used in place of zigzag stitch)
- Iron and ironing surface
- Sleeve board or pressing sausage (helpful but optional)
Supplies & Tools
- Fabric scissors
- Paper scissors
- Snips
- Pins
- Seam ripper
- Measuring tape
- Masking tape or washi tape
- Clear gridded ruler
- Seam gauge or hot hem ruler
- Large safety pin or bodkin
- Hand sewing needle
For the first session, print the pattern instructions (not the pattern), as we will be referring to the instructions throughout class.
Who This Class Is For
This workshop is for beginner sewers who want to understand how to read commercial patterns. It's ideal if you're curious about sewing garments but have felt overwhelmed by pattern instructions, or if you want to build confidence before tackling other commercial patterns. You'll also learn several beginner sewing techniques that will help you feel more comfortable with your sewing.
Your Registration Includes
- Three live sessions on Zoom
- Introduction guide with pre-class preparation instructions
- A recording of each session, available for 30 days afterward
Virtual Class Details
My Camera Setup
- Overhead close-up view of my work surface
- Dedicated camera on my sewing machine
- Face-to-face camera for demos and conversation
What you'll need:
- A computer, tablet, or smartphone with reliable internet. A larger screen is recommended for best visibility. Download the latest version of Zoom here.
- If you already have Zoom installed, please make sure you're running the latest version before class begins, as outdated versions can cause connection issues or unexpected update prompts once class has started.
Homework between sessions
After session 1, you'll have one week to source fabric, cut out your pattern pieces, and prepare for sewing. Detailed instructions and a checklist will be provided. Any remaining portions of the project from class 1 and 2 that are incomplete will become homework. You'll have access to the class recordings to help you finish any outstanding parts of the project.
Your Zoom link and password will be emailed the day before each session. Please double-check your email address when registering.
Class Policies & Cancellations
Please review our full class policy here before registering.