Learn to Sew a Capsule Wardrobe (A.K.A. A Whole Lotta Lotta)
Make It Sew’s front window is not only springy, but it also showcases the pieces students will make in the upcoming Capsule Wardrobe series!
There are so many reasons to get excited about Make It Sew’s upcoming “Capsule Wardrobe” series that it’s hard to know where to begin! Here are a few nudges for why you might want to sign up for one or more of these two-part sewing lessons: 1) You want to learn or practice basic sewing skills; 2) You want to make truly wearable clothes while you learn; 3) You want a small class size so you can benefit from individual attention; 4) You hate picking out what to wear and simply want to grab things off a couple hangers, knowing you will look great!
With all those reasons in mind, Accacia has created a five-garment instructional series, drawing on the patterns and inspiration provided by the book Lotta Jansdotter Everyday Style. She says, “They’re nice, simple designs. With the five different garments, beginning students can make a garment that I think they will want to wear and enjoy wearing. But they’ll also learn some skills that are part of making more complicated garments and sewing in general.” Starting in April and continuing through September (with a break in July), on the second and third Tuesday evening of each month, 5:30-8:30 pm, Make It Sew will guide students through making a new garment, building sewing savvy as students build their wardrobes. What’s particularly nice about the Tuesday class schedule is students who find they need extra time will be able to drop by Make It Sew’s “open sewing” on Thursday evening (5:30-8 pm) and/or Friday midday (11 am-2 pm) to catch up and prepare for the next class.
April’s project: Lotta Jansdotter’s terrific Kiomi dress, which students have the option to make as a top.
During April’s sessions, students will sew either a sleeveless top or dress (their choice) while learning how to attach bias tape and gather, a skill that helps create shape.
May’s project: Lotta Jansdotter’s perfect A-line Tedra skirt, which students can create at whatever length they desire.
In May, each student will make a skirt and learn to put in a zipper, which Accacia says “is not nearly as scary as some people think.”
June’s project: Lotta Jansdotter’s easy-to-wear Owyn pants, which students can choose to make as shorts.
In June, students will not only address the shapes and geometry involved in making pants, but they will also learn how to create a channel and insert elastic.
July’s project: Lotta Jansdotter’s versatile Esme top, tunic, or kaftan.
August’s sessions will focus on making a top, tunic, or kaftan (again, up to each student) that will entail learning how to create darts to enhance fit.
August’s project: Lotta Jansdotter’s stylish Pilvi jacket or coat, which students will learn to add in-seam pockets to, if they wish.
Finally, in September students will make either a coat or jacket, learning how to sew in-seam pockets, which Accacia points out, “everybody loves.”
Each class will also include optional “extra credit” skills for students who feel competent and ambitious. For instance, students will have the chance to add patch pockets to their skirts in May and belt loops to their pants in June. Plus Lotta Jansdotter Everyday Style includes all kinds of accessories students can make to enhance their wardrobes.
Just a few of the fun accessories Lotta Jansdotter Everyday Style includes to help you add pizzazz to your capsule wardrobe.
Are students required to take all five classes? Nope (although we’re pretty sure you’ll want to). Each two-session class costs $60, but if you sign up for three or four, you can save $20 on the overall cost. Sign up for all five and get $45 off! Students will need to buy Lotta Jansdotter Everyday Style (trust us, it’s a great investment at $29.95), as well as fabrics and notions, but Make It Sew will offer those enrolled 10% off all goods purchased.
Nota bene: These classes are not for those who have never touched a sewing machine. But don’t worry if that’s you—simply sign up for a private sewing lesson with Accacia prior to the course, and she will get you up to speed!
Versatility galore with the patterns in Lotta Jansdotter Everyday Style!
Come make a capsule! There’s a whole lot to love about a whole lotta Lotta!