Cam's Sewing Classes
About
I feel my most valuable assets are my experience and my endless patience for my students. In addition to sewing since the age of 12, I hold a Masters in Fashion Design from Drexel University with extensive research in Fashion History. I have worked in designer studios in Philadelphia, New York and London. I have been teaching classes of all ages for the last 3 years, including for the Fulton County Arts and Culture Department and private lessons.
My students have ranged from ages 8-65 with all levels of sewing proficiency. I am skilled at teaching sewing construction on a professional level, I am also adept at teaching patternmaking, draping and the principles of fashion design. As a natural maker, I also have specialized expertise, such as embroidery, needlepoint, couture hand sewing technique and fabric arts.
I teach because I am passionate about the role that clothing plays in our lives and I want to share garment construction with the world. Constructing clothes allows students to think about engineering through problem solving, mathematical and spatial reasoning while utilizing creative expression. I can teach principles via projects or we can focus on various components of construction.
References available upon request.
I enjoy sewing because it is an important life skill that is also an artform. The ability to make clothes can assure you will always the ablility to clothe yourself and others, you will be able to preserve your own garments and you will have a skill that can also provide financial support.
Highlights
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I begin my lessons by understanding my student's goals and interests in sewing. Some students are interested in garment construction and some students are interested in accessory and homegoods. I have also had professional designers as students who are seeking to add techniques to their toolkits. From there, we formulate a plan of study that will cover aspects that are of value to them and also any pertinent additional training that I feel will round out the experience.
My younger students do well initially learning how to pick out a pattern, select fabric and following directions. My more experienced students do well picking a garment they'd like to make and learning how to draft patterns through studying the design.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a M.S. in Fashion Design and Costume History from Drexel University. I have worked in professional design studios and I am also a Fashion Designer with my own line and custom design clients.
I have been teaching for the last 3 years.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
For single students, my system is $35 for one 1.5 hour long class. for 2 students or more it's $25/class. I encourage small group classes for convenience, I have taught classes with as many as 8 students. I have some sewing machines which I allow my students to use, however, there is a $10 fee for those without machines.
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching sewing because I was teaching crafts and jewelry design and I wanted to offer my specialized knowledge to my students. I love the feeling of seeing a student become confident in their craft. Sewing is intimidating to some and to see a student become acclimated to using the machine and knowing how to execute functions is always exciting to me.
What types of students have you worked with?
Children, teens and adults. Experienced designers and budding designers. New to sewing or experienced quilters looking to expand their repertoire.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I went to a folk art show that had a showcase on quilters. It was so inspiring seeing all the different approaches to quilting.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Go with a teacher that has a modern understanding of garment construction. The technology of sewing hasn't really changed, per se. But, our reception to garments have. You want to learn modern methods, so, that your projects can shine and not appear outdated.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Learning to sew is a passion that requires time. Be ready for the commitment. You have to love it because it takes lots of patience and lots of drive. But, if you start and you take to it, you will be consumed with the desire to create!