Sewing gives girls and boys a fun way to create their own style and confidence. It’s a skill that teaches them to appreciate the time it takes to make something while helping them develop math and problem skills. When you enroll your child in a local class they get to flex their creative muscles create cool items like superhero capes and treasure-hunting bags and then brag with an, “I made it!” Read on to find out class options for your young crafters. Bonus: get them started now and by next year they’ll be crafting their own Halloween costume!
photo: Chiots run vial flicker
Modern Domestic
This bright and open space is full of modern fabrics in fun colors and patterns.The kids classes are geared toward beginners ages 8 and up, and each class includes a choice of fabric to use. Kids will learn to make totes, skirts, bags, dolls, and even quilts! Longer camps are also offered periodically. The owners have worked hard to create a welcoming, helpful, and beautiful atmosphere to inspire young and old. And the location on Alberta street means easy access to plenty of post-sewing munchies!
Class cost: $70 for 3 hours
503- 808-9910
422 NE Alberta St.
Portland, OR
Online: shop.moderndomesticpdx.com
Montavilla Sewing Centers
The projects at Kids Sewing Corner include fun things like Trick or Treat bags, flannel blankets, star pillows, and snow men. With all sorts of fun things to make, kids ages 8-14 will learn to sew easily. All the classes are taught by veteran teacher Kelly Steele, and offered at the Beaverton location of Montavilla Sewing. With a never-ending supply of patterns and fun ideas, these classes can be repeated again and again!
$25 for two hours
503-619-6619
4955 SW Western Ave
Beaverton, OR
Online: montavillasewing.com
photo: modern domestic via yelp
Good Hand Studio
Heather works out of her home studio sewing clothing and other one-of-a-kind products. Between that, she offers classes, camps and private lessons to teach kids how to sew. All her classes are for kids, and each student leaves with the confidence of having made something. Check out her three-hour Sewing Parties for up to 5 guests–perfect for birthdays! And especially great are her No-School workshops for those teacher in-service or other days without school. Don’t be stuck at home– get those kids to a workshop!
Class cost: $60 for a 3 hour workshop
221 SE 11th Avenue, Suite 209
Portland, Oregon
Online: http://www.goodhandstudio.com/classes/
JoLene’s Sewing School
A lifelong sewist herself, Jolene has created a wonderful space to pass along her skills. Using the popular and easy-to-follow Kids Can Sew program, geared for ages 6 and up, Jolene provides the machines, equipment, and guidance, and kids come with fabric and notions. You can choose from a variety of weekly classes or keep an eye out for special events and workshop. A recent popular workshop was the Emoji Camp, which kids got to sew emoji pillows, and pajamas from emoji fabrics.
Class cost: $35 registration fee then $50/month for weekly classes
503-804-7259
16661 SE Rock Creek Court
Happy Valley, OR
Online: https://jolenesews.com/
Photo: jolene via yelp
Klum House
A hip and stylish maker space, Klum House hosts classes, private lessons, all-day workshops, and sewing socials all month. They’re not specifically geared toward kids, but would be a great fit for kids and teens with an older fashion sense, interested in working with waxed canvas and leather. No matter the age, all are welcomed and supported at the studio, and offered plenty of resources to succeed.
Class cost: Project-based, $40-$150
3808 N Williams Ave #132
Portland, OR
Online: https://www.klumhouse.com/
Donna and Toots
This boutique offers a clothing line of in-house designs, intermingled with workshop and learning space. On Sundays anyone can bring a project in for help, or sign up for a class to make that perfect t-shirt, dress, skirt or your very own embroidery project. Keep an eye out for kid-focused classes– they pop up regularly.
Class cost: Project-based, $45-$120
503-241-5570
3574 SE Division St.
Portland, OR
Online: donnaandtoots.com
What would your child most like to sew? Tell us in the comments below!
—Katrina Emery
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