August 2023

Our annual vacation closure is coming up soon! There is no time better spent then with your family with your toes in the sand, laughter in the air, and something tasty in hand. We hope you had a chance this summer to rest, and see the people that mean the most to you.

This year we will be closed from Saturday September 2-11, 2023. We Re-open Tuesday September 12, 2023.

Our hours remain the same: Tuesday 10am-7pm. Wednesday-Friday 10am-5pm, and Saturday 1-5pm.

As always, thank you for your support, we look forward to seeing you when we are back in store Tuesday September 12, 2023.

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Hiraeth Handbag Class coming up quickly!

This handbag has beautiful structure, curves and lines that ground the eye and elevate the aesthetic. Hiraeth is equipped with two slip pockets on the exterior, and a slip pocket and zipper pocket on the interior. There are endless opportunities for color blocking prints, textures and details which will make a uniquely different bag every time.

Saturday September 16 and 23, 2023 from 1:30-4pm.

Cost: $50 Plus materials

REGISTER HERE

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Periwinkle Spring Collection



Meet the Periwinkle spring collection. These 100% Cotton fabrics are so lovely, you don't even want to cut them.

From left to right: Periwinkle Spring - 9PS-1, Periwinkle Spring - 4PS, Periwinkle Spring - 1PS-1.


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Succulents are back in stock!

By popular request we have succulents fabric back in stock! See it HERE.

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Confessions of a Non-Sewist No. 1: The Peacock Skirt.

Hello, my name is Mikaela, and I am a Non-Sewist that works at That Sewing Place. I grew up in a family of incredibly talented sewists, and I was naturally assumed to have picked up the sewing bug - alas, I did not. Or so I thought.

For many years I promised the world I would never sew, and hated being in front of a machine, which all changed when my love for a fabric and need for a dress ASAP outweighed my dislike for sewing.

From the moment the Luminosity collection came in I fell IN LOVE with the Luminosity Navy Multi, but didn't know what I wanted to do with it. June came, and I had a special event to go to, and I needed something special to wear, and then I had an idea. I played with pleating the fabric, and decided on making a skirt and shirt.

I took my measurements, and was able to divide it by an even number of pleats, added a side zipper and made a mockup.

On the left is the fabric unsewn. I pinned it by eye to play with pleats. On the right is the first mockup I made.

The mockup was quite close to fitting, however the waistband was too loose at the top and needed a little adjusting. I decided to add two darts front and back hidden in the pleats, lining, and a pocket. Then it was time for mockup #2. This one went very well for the most part. For some silly reason, I thought I could save time and make the lining a-line, instead of pleated properly and it turned out to be too small...so much so that in my determination to try it on (and confidence that I made it the right size when it was clearly not) I got in but could not get out of the skirt! Cue emergency seam ripping!

Barb is incredible. She helped with getting me in and out of the skirt. I might still be stuck if it weren't for her! Back to the drawing board. After some research on pattern drafting, I redesigned the lining, and chose a light cotton voile so it wouldn't be too heavy. Lastly was the waistband. I found a great article on How To Draft a Shaped Waistband from In The Folds, and was able to make a no-gap waistband that fit comfortably! WAHOO! With all my adjustments made, I could begin the final design.

I chose to work on the Bernina B770 QE PLUS and the Bernina L460 Serger. I have sewn on my mom's Bernina, and like working with them. I chose to use both machines because I wanted to get to know them better, and needed the space for this very long skirt. They DID NOT dissappoint! More on that later.

I used the heat erase Frixion Pen in the seam allowance, used the white Chaco Liner for marking on the good side of my fabric, and Fine Glass Headed Pins to pin it together.

As if there was any doubt, the B 770QE PLUS handled this project like a dream. I really love the hover feature for the presser foot, and am not sure I can live without the Dual Feed ever again. I switched to a Schmetz Super Universal Needle (coated for less friction) to sew the zipper in and waistband as there was a lot of bulk.

Then to complete the skirt, I used a Hot Hemmer to finish off the hem, and topstitched it to complete the garment.

To pair with it, I wanted something simple and light, so I chose the Etty Camisole Pattern which is lovely. I used Raw Silk and it turned out well.

Endnotes on working with the Bernina 770 QE PLUS and L460. I have absolutely no complaints, and can't wait to work on these machines again. The B 770 QE PLUS really impressed me with how well it handled the bulk of the waistband, especially at the zipper. There was the skirt, lining, zipper and waistband that was fully interfaced AND folded over. It sewed through cleanly, with no complaints and the stitching was gorgeous. 

The Bernina L460 is a dream to serge with. I love how smooth and quiet is, and LOVE the knee-lift. If you have never worked with a serger that has a knee-lift, you just have to. It is revolutionary! In addition, the speed control is incredible. Want to creep along one stitch at a time? That is no problem with this machine.

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Eaze-out in stock!

So, by now you may have heard that there is a nation wide shortage of Ease-out. Well, we just received our shipment and are LOADED! Stock up HERE.

If you haven't already used it, Ease-Out is an incredible stain remover that takes almost everything out, even if the stain has sat on the clothing for some time before being washed.

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Sweetpea Placemats - Lea

This is the Roll Up Picnic Placemat from Sweetpea Machine Embroidery. This is a great placemat to take with you on a trip, and on the bottom left there are little pockets to slide your cutlery into! A perfect stash buster project!
 

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See all classes HERE

Time or U.S (Uninterrupted Sewing)

Join other like-minded sewists and take advantage of Uninterrupted Sewing (U.S.) time in our classroom between 11am and 2pm on these posted in-store sew-days!

You can choose your own project and pace. Start new projects or catch up on the "work in progress" pile. This is independent sewing time (no teacher supervision) but of course our staff will be available to assist, and your fellow sewists love to chat and help each other.

August 10 and 24, September 14, and 28, 2023 from 11-2pm.

Cost: $25

REGISTER HERE

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Japanese Knot Bag - Marlene

This is the third project in a series and a great intro to our bag making classes as well. A good bag for carrying snacks, kids toys, personal belongings and of course the Bucket Hat and Fold and Stitch Wallet. It is fully lined and reversible. You will be sewing with cork or vinyl, be introduced to stabilizers, and seam trimming.

Friday August 11,2023 from 10:30-12:30pm.

Cost: $25 plus materials

REGISTER HERE

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Bag Therapy - Charmaine

Bring in your bag projects in any stage of development that you would like to complete, and get help or advice from our teacher and the other participants or just to chat and get your project finished.

Saturday August 12, 2023 from 1:30-3:30.

Cost: $25

REGISTER HERE

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Kids Summer Sew Intermediate



What's Happening: 5 days of sewing a number of projects they will be proud to take home. They will also have the opportunity to learn how to personalize them.

Date: August 14 - 18, 2023
Time: 1pm - 4pm  There will be two 15 minute breaks.
Students are to bring their own snacks.

An email will be sent out before start date with release forms that need to be signed and brought to the first day of class. The email will also containing a supply list.

Cost: $300 Plus Materials

REGISTER HERE

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Big Brother Club

Choose your own projects and accomplish them in-class with expert guidance. This Club is for Brother sewing & embroidery machines that have an embroidery hoop of 6"x10" or larger.

August 16, September 13 and 27 from 10:30-2PM.

Cost: $25

REGISTER HERE

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PR/PRS Machine Essentials - Charmaine

In this class you will learn:

•     Setting features, troubleshooting, maintenance and basic operation
•     Machine special features
•     Importing, editing and saving embroidery designs

Class fee is waived for machines purchased at That Sewing Place. If you have purchased your machine at That Sewing Place and would like to register, please contact the shop, and we will take care of registration for you.

*CLASS HELD VIRTUALLY ON ZOOM*
You will receive an email with zoom information closer to date of class along with any class notes and other materials that you may need

Saturday August 19, 2023 from 11:30-1:30pm.

Cost: $87 - including the class kit.

REGISTER HERE

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Experimenting with Knits - Marlene

In this class you will make a t-shirt from start to finish, which includes pattern tracing, cutting and sewing. You will ease your worries on sewing with knits and build your knowledge on fabric choices and techniques. This class is a perfect choice as an introduction to sewing knit garments.

Choose from two patterns Jalie #3903 top, tunic and dress with medium weight stretch fabric or, #2918 mens t-shirt with crew neck or v-neck which is great for women as well. The Pattern is not included in the class fee. 

No Serger? No problem! Try out one of our Sergers and do some sample stitches before you sew your garment.

Patterns can be purchased with enrollment in the class.

Wednesday August 23, 2023 from 11-2pm.

Cost: $25 plus materials

REGISTER HERE

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Beginner Adult Sewing - Barb

This project-based beginner-level class for adults will start the students building a solid foundation in the world of sewing. Each of the three projects have been selected to focus on a different sewing skill and the students will complete this class understanding the basics of sewing machine safety and operation. Please bring your own sewing machine to class.
There will be homework in between classes.

This class is held in store, so there is limited spacing and will be held at That Sewing Place.

Friday September 15, 29, October 6, 13, 27, and November 3 2023, from 10:30-12:30pm.

Cost: $150 Plus materials.

REGISTER HERE

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Hiraeth Handbag - Charmaine

This handbag has beautiful structure, curves and lines that ground the eye and elevate the aesthetic. Hiraeth is equipped with two slip pockets on the exterior, and a slip pocket and zipper pocket on the interior. There are endless opportunities for color blocking prints, textures and details which will make a uniquely different bag every time.

Click HERE to purchase and download the pattern.

This is a 2 session class held in person. You have the option of 3 different hardware colours.  Gold, nickel or gunmetal. You can create the bag with cotton, cork or vinyl, or all of them which That Sewing Place carries.

Saturday September 16, and 23, 2023 from 1:30-4:30pm.

Cost: $50 plus materials.

REGISTER HERE

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Intro to Quilting - Barb

Learn the basics of the whole quilt process right from rotary-cutting to piecing your patches into blocks then arranging them into a quilt top. Learn about batting and backing your quilt use simple straight line quilting to secure all layers before binding to complete your quilt. In this six week course you will be making this simply beautiful table runner. This is also available to see in store.

Tuesday Sep 19, 26, Oct 03, 10, 17, 24 from 4-6pm.

Cost: $150 plus materials

REGISTER HERE

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Embroidery Intro: Brother Machines

In this class you will learn the essentials of your embroidery machine. You will learn about threads & threading, needles, hooping & stabilizing, how to navigate your machine, access built-in designs (including text) as well as working with importing designs. Leave this class with the confidence to tackle all your upcoming projects.
There is a required kit that includes class notes for this class, please be sure to pick it up or ask to have it shipped to you. (shipping fees apply)

Class fee is waived for embroidery machines purchased at That Sewing Place. If you have purchased your machine from That Sewing Place, please contact us and we will take care for registration for you!

Saturday September 23, from 9:30-12:30pm.

Cost: $92.04

REGISTER HERE

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Kidstart Beginner

This project based beginner class for children 9 to 13 years of age will start them building a solid foundation in the world of sewing. Each project has been selected to focus on a different sewing skill, which progressively builds their sewing knowledge. On completion of this class students will have an understanding sewing machine safety and basic operation. Students are encouraged to bring their own sewing machine, but there are machines available for use in the classroom if necessary.

You will receive an email with information closer to date of class along with any class notes and other materials that you may need.

Tuesday September 29, Oct 03, 10, and 17, 2023 from 4:30-6:30pm.

Cost: $100 plus materials

REGISTER HERE

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Kidsew Intermediate - Marlene

Having had some experience at the sewing machines in KidStart children are now invited to add to their sewing knowledge bank. With a beginner's focus on pattern reading and different stitching practice.

Students are encouraged to bring their own machine, but if they don't have their own sewing machines will be provided. Materials for projects will be purchased at the end of classes.

*CLASS HELD IN PERSON *
You will receive an email with information closer to date of class along with any class notes and other materials that you may need.

Saturday September 30, October 07, 14, and 28, 2023 from 1:30-3:30pm.

Cost: $100 plus materials.

REGISTER HERE

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Serger 102

Dive into using your serger, and learn a variety of techniques for garment construction. You will learn how to use your serger for a polished and professional finish on your clothing, and come away inspired to use your serger.

Class fee is waived for machines purchased at That Sewing Place. If you have purchased your machine at That Sewing Place and would like to register, please contact the shop, and we will take care of registration for you.

Saturday October 7, 2023 from 11:30-1:30

Cost: $70

REGISTER HERE

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Intermediate Adult

Project-based intermediate-level class for adults, students will build on their knowledge from the Beginner Adult class. This is a four session class.

Please bring your own sewing machine to class. There will be homework in between classes.

This class is held in store at That Sewing Place, so there is limited seating.

Friday November 10, 17, 24 and December 1, 2023, from 10:30-12:30

Cost: $100 plus materials.

REGISTER HERE

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Sewing Machine Essentials for NQ Series Brother Machines - Jaret

In this class you will start with the basics to get to know your machine and then progress to maintenance, tips and tricks from the tech, and troubleshooting. There is a question and answer period at the end of class so that you go home confident with your machine.

Our favourite part about this class is that it’s not only for beginner sewists. If you want to gain a deeper understanding of your machine, or just have a refresher this class is a great option for you.

This class caters from the small to midsize combination sewing machines, some examples being NQ550, NQ900, NQ1600E & NQ3500D. If you don't know if this class is suitable for your machine please give us a call.

Class fee is waived for machines purchased at That Sewing Place. If you have purchased your machine at That Sewing Place and would like to register, please contact the shop, and we will take care of registration for you.

You will receive an email closer to date of class with any class notes and other materials that you may need

Saturday August 19, 2023 from 2:30-4:30pm, or Saturday November 11, 2023 from 2:30-4:30pm.

Cost: $70

REGISTER HERE

Alicia asked: "I'm left handed, and just treated myself to left handed scissors for the first time and they are even harder to use then the right handed pairs I have been using all my life. Is there something wrong with the scissors? They are supposed to be easier!"

"We hear about this a lot, and likely the scissor is fine, but the problem lies with how it is being used. The short answer is that you are the problem, but it isn't your fault. The world is built for 'righties' and because of this, 'Lefties' have learned to compensate and use right handed items. For scissors specifically,
 this means that when you go to close the scissors, you will be pulling the blades away from each other because that is how you would have had to on a right handed pair.

Here is the good news: If you want to you an easily retrain your muscle memory, it just takes a little practice." - Jaret the Technical Expert

August is Left Handers month. Did you know we carry left handed shears, and you can make rotary cutters left handed??

Left handed Kai Shears. See them HERE.

Left handed micro serrated shears. See them HERE.

Make a rotary cutter Left Handed: To make your make your ergonomic rotary cutter leftie friendly you can remove the blade, and put it on the other side. Bam! Ready to roll left handed!