Atelier Benson/Detroit Manufacturing And Fabric Company

**Unlock Your Creative Potential with Me**

*Fashion Designer – Apparel Maker – Educator*

Hi, I’m Benson, and I want to personally invite you to embark on a journey of discovery, creativity, and craftsmanship with me. With over 34 years of experience in fashion design, apparel making, and education, I’ve dedicated my life to mastering the art of fashion and sharing that knowledge with passionate learners like you.

**What It’s Like to Work with Me**

When you take lessons with me, you’re not just learning skills—you’re stepping into an immersive, collaborative experience where your creativity takes center stage. I tailor every session to fit your unique goals, whether you're new to sewing or an experienced designer looking to refine your craft. My teaching style is hands-on, engaging, and focused on building your confidence to take on any project with a fresh perspective.

For the Beginner or Intermediate Student

Sewing 101: Mastering the Basics: If you're just starting out, don’t worry—I’ll guide you through the fundamentals of sewing step by step. We’ll begin with understanding your sewing machine or serger, from threading and tension adjustments to troubleshooting common issues. As you gain confidence, you’ll learn to control the machine with precision and tackle essential skills like sewing straight seams, finishing edges, and creating simple projects. Together, we’ll build a strong foundation that will support you as you grow into more advanced techniques and creative endeavors.

For the Advanced Student

Together we'll explore;

- **Couture Techniques**: I’ll show you how to create luxury garments with precision and artistry.

- **Pattern Making & Grading**: Learn to develop custom patterns that fit perfectly and adapt to any design.

- **Innovative Textiles & Dyeing**: I’ll teach you to work with fabrics in bold, creative ways, including advanced dyeing techniques.

- **Fashion Illustration & Collection Development**: Bring your ideas to life and refine them into cohesive, standout designs.

**Why You Should Learn with Me**

My career has been a mix of designing and fabricating bold fashion collections, intricate garment production, and guiding others to success in the industry. I’ve been honored with awards like Detroit’s Best New Designer and Favorite Designer of the Year, and my work has been featured in films, commercials, and on notable personalities.

But my greatest passion is teaching. As an adjunct educator at Western Michigan University, I developed curriculums that helped students thrive in the competitive worlds of fashion and interior design. Watching my students grow and succeed drives me to give my all in every lesson. When you learn with me, you’ll get more than technical skills—you’ll gain the confidence and insight to innovate, experiment, and make your creative mark.

**What You’ll Take Away**

- The ability to create garments with expert-level craftsmanship.

- The confidence to express your unique style and vision.

- A deeper understanding of how to merge artistry with practical techniques.

- Industry knowledge and skills that will help you stand out in your field.

I believe everyone has the potential to create something extraordinary, and I’d love to help you realize your full potential. Whether you’re an aspiring designer, a hobbyist, or someone looking to elevate your existing skills, I’m here to guide and inspire you every step of the way.

**Let’s get started on your journey.**

Pricing Guide for Sewing and Fashion Design Lessons

Below is a clear and detailed price list based on my expertise and the industry standards for private lessons in fashion and sewing.

- Private 1-on-1 Lessons

Rate: $75/hour

Perfect for highly focused, personalized instruction tailored to your specific goals and skill level.

- Small Group Lessons (2-3 Students)

Rate per Student: $50/hour

Offers personalized guidance while fostering collaboration and shared learning among a small group.

- Larger Group Lessons (4+ Students)

Rate per Student: $40/hour

Provides a balance of affordability and comprehensive instruction for group participants, ideal for workshops or introductory classes.

- Customized Packages

Discounts may be available for bulk lesson packages or extended sessions. Please contact me to discuss your specific needs!

This pricing structure ensures affordability while reflecting the value of specialized skills and my professional background in fashion design and sewing instruction.

Classes:

**Sewing 101 Curriculum (Beginner Level)**

*Duration: 10 Weeks, 3 Hours per Class*

**Week 1: Introduction to Sewing Machines and Tools**

- Overview of sewing machine parts and their functions.

- Threading and bobbin winding practice.

- Understanding sewing tools: scissors, pins, measuring tape, seam rippers, etc.

- First stitches: straight stitch practice on scrap fabric.

**Week 2: Fabric Basics**

- Introduction to different fabric types (woven vs. knit).

- Understanding grainlines, selvedge, and fabric stretch.

- Preparing fabric for sewing: washing, ironing, and cutting.

- Sewing straight and curved lines.

**Week 3: Mastering Basic Stitches**

- Straight stitch, zigzag stitch, and backstitch.

- Adjusting stitch length and tension.

- Sewing practice: creating a fabric coaster or placemat.

**Week 4: Seam Techniques**

- Sewing basic seams: plain seams and French seams.

- Finishing raw edges with zigzag stitching or pinking shears.

- Project: simple pillowcase with finished seams.

**Week 5: Hemming and Edge Finishing**

- Techniques: folded hems, blind hems, and rolled hems.

- Using a serger for edge finishing (optional introduction).

- Project: sewing a napkin set or small tablecloth.

**Week 6: Understanding Patterns**

- Reading and understanding commercial sewing patterns.

- Marking and cutting fabric using a pattern.

- Project: cutting and preparing fabric for a tote bag.

**Week 7: Assembling a Simple Tote Bag**

- Sewing and constructing the tote bag from a pattern.

- Reinforcing seams for durability.

- Adding finishing touches like straps or pockets.

**Week 8: Zippers and Closures**

- Installing a basic zipper.

- Introduction to buttons and buttonholes.

- Project: small zippered pouch.

**Week 9: Final Project Planning**

- Students choose a simple project (e.g., apron, skirt, or another tote bag).

- Reviewing and preparing patterns and materials.

**Week 10: Final Project Completion**

- Guided sewing session to complete the chosen project.

- Feedback and troubleshooting tips.

- Celebrating accomplishments and review of learned skills.

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**Sewing 201 Curriculum (Intermediate Level)**

*Duration: 10 Weeks, 3 Hours per Class*

**Week 1: Advanced Sewing Machine Techniques**

- Review of sewing machine settings and accessories (e.g., specialty feet).

- Introduction to twin needles, decorative stitches, and serging basics.

- Practice stitching on challenging fabrics like denim or satin.

**Week 2: Pattern Alterations**

- Adjusting patterns for fit and style.

- Learning basic pattern grading.

- Hands-on activity: altering a simple pattern for custom sizing.

**Week 3: Darts, Pleats, and Gathers**

- Sewing darts for shaping.

- Creating pleats and gathering fabric evenly.

- Project: sew a gathered or pleated skirt panel.

**Week 4: Working with Knits**

- Understanding stretch fabrics and appropriate stitches.

- Using stretch needles and stabilizers.

- Project: simple knit top or leggings.

**Week 5: Seam Finishing Techniques**

- Advanced seam finishes: flat-felled seams and bound seams.

- Using sergers for professional edge finishing.

- Practice on sample pieces.

**Week 6: Interfacing and Linings**

- Types of interfacing and their uses.

- Adding linings to garments or bags for structure and comfort.

- Project: lined cosmetic bag or simple lined vest.

**Week 7: Advanced Closures**

- Installing invisible zippers, snaps, and hooks.

- Creating functional button plackets.

- Practice sewing a sampler with multiple closure types.

**Week 8: Complex Garment Construction**

- Sewing garments with multiple pieces (e.g., blouse or simple dress).

- Understanding assembly order and handling curves and sleeves.

- Cutting and preparing fabric for the final project.

**Week 9: Final Project Assembly**

- Guided sewing session to assemble the final project.

- Troubleshooting construction challenges.

**Week 10: Final Project Completion and Review**

- Finishing details and pressing techniques.

- Feedback on final projects and skill assessment.

- Certificates of completion (optional) and celebration of progress.

This curriculum ensures students gradually build their skills, with each session building upon the last. By the end of Sewing 101 and 201, students will feel confident in tackling beginner to intermediate sewing projects.

Sewing 301 Curriculum (Advanced Level)

Duration: 10 Weeks, 3 Hours per Class

Week 1: Advanced Sewing Techniques Overview

• Review of intermediate techniques and tools.

• Introduction to advanced machine features (e.g., embroidery, programmable stitches).

• Working with specialty fabrics like chiffon, leather, or velvet.

Week 2: Tailoring Basics

• Understanding tailoring techniques for structured garments.

• Creating welt pockets and bound buttonholes.

• Project: practicing welt pocket construction on sample fabric.

Week 3: Couture Construction Techniques

• Exploring couture methods like hand-stitching and fabric manipulation.

• Sewing with horsehair, boning, and other structural supports.

• Project: creating a sample bodice with couture detailing.

Week 4: Advanced Pattern Drafting

• Drafting custom patterns from measurements.

• Modifying patterns for unique designs (e.g., asymmetry, color blocking).

• Activity: drafting a skirt or bodice pattern from scratch.

Week 5: Draping on a Dress Form

• Introduction to fabric draping techniques.

• Pinning and manipulating fabric directly on a form to create unique designs.

• Project: draping a simple garment or top on a dress form.

Week 6: Working with Tricky Fabrics

• Techniques for sewing silk, satin, lace, and leather.

• Using stabilizers, interfacing, and other tools for challenging materials • Practice: creating fabric samples using advanced techniques.

Week 7: Decorative Sewing Techniques

• Embellishments: embroidery, appliqué, and beadwork.

• Creating decorative hems, pintucks, and pleats.

• Project: embellishing a small accessory or garment piece.

Week 8: Advanced Garment Construction

• Sewing complex garments with linings, interfacing, and multiple layers.

• Techniques for perfect fit and finishing (e.g., understitching, pressing).

• Cutting and preparing fabric for the final project.

Week 9: Final Project Assembly

• Guided sewing session to construct an advanced garment of the student’s choice (e.g., tailored blazer, evening gown).

• Troubleshooting and personalized feedback.

Week 10: Final Project Completion and Showcase

• Completing finishing touches and advanced pressing techniques.

• Reviewing final projects and sharing feedback.

• Student showcase or group critique to celebrate progress.

Sewing 401 Curriculum (Mastery and Specialization)

Duration: 10 Weeks, 3 Hours per Class

Week 1: Introduction to Mastery-Level Techniques

• Identifying areas of specialization (e.g., tailoring, couture, costume design).

• Setting personal learning goals for the course.

• Advanced machine setups and using professional-grade tools.

Week 2: Custom Pattern Creation

• Drafting full custom garment patterns.

• Creating slopers for perfect fit.

• Activity: drafting and fitting a personal sloper.

Week 3: Precision Tailoring

• Perfecting advanced tailoring techniques, including pad stitching and roll lines.

• Creating structured garments with flawless construction.

• Practice: constructing a tailored lapel or sleeve.

Week 4: Fabric and Design Innovation

• Experimenting with unique textiles, dyeing, and surface design.

• Creating fabric manipulations, such as pleating or smocking.

• Project: designing and executing a textile-based art piece.

Week 5: Couture Finishing Techniques

• Mastering fine hand-sewing details like hand-rolled hems, pick-stitching, and thread loops.

• Applying couture lining techniques for invisible finishes.

• Project: creating a fully lined, couture-style garment piece.

Week 6: Advanced Draping Techniques

• Creating multi-layered and complex draped designs.

• Experimenting with asymmetry and unconventional silhouettes.

• Draping and pinning fabric for final project preparation.

Week 7: Specialty Projects

• Focused session on a specialty area of interest (e.g., bridal, costume, or activewear).

• Students work on projects aligned with their individual goals.

Week 8: Complex Garment Assembly

• Constructing garments with intricate details, multiple layers, or unique features.

• Addressing fitting challenges and garment refinements.

Week 9: Final Project Assembly

• Dedicated sewing time with one-on-one guidance to complete advanced projects.

Week 10: Final Project Showcase and Review

• Completing and presenting final projects to the group.

• Peer feedback, instructor critique, and tips for future growth.

• Celebration of accomplishments and skill mastery.

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These advanced curricula are designed to challenge students, refine their skills, and prepare them for specialization or professional-level work in their chosen area of fashion. Students will leave with confidence, advanced techniques, and stunning creations to showcase their talent.

Industrial Sewing Classes

Industrial Sewing classes, where passion meets precision! These courses are designed to transform your sewing skills into professional-level craftsmanship, equipping you to thrive in the garment manufacturing industry. Whether you’re an aspiring professional sewer or an entrepreneur looking to launch your own production line, my classes will give you the technical expertise, confidence, and speed needed to excel.

Through hands-on training on industrial-grade equipment, you’ll learn the techniques, tools, and workflows used by industry experts. I’ll guide you step by step, starting with the basics of operating industrial machines and progressing to advanced construction and finishing methods. By the end of our journey together, you’ll master high-speed sewing, complex garment assembly, and the quality standards that set professional work apart.

My goal is to provide you with real-world knowledge, from understanding production efficiency to collaborating in team environments, so you leave ready to enter or enhance your role in the garment industry. With my decades of experience in apparel manufacturing and design, I’m here to ensure you develop skills that make you stand out as a professional sewer or garment producer.

Let’s get started and stitch your path to success!

Industrial Sewing 101: Foundations of Professional Garment Sewing

Duration: 10 Weeks, 3 Hours per Class

Week 1: Introduction to Industrial Sewing Equipment

• Overview of industrial sewing machines and their functions (e.g., single-needle, overlock, coverstitch).

• Machine safety and proper handling.

• Threading, bobbin winding, and basic troubleshooting.

• Practicing straight stitches and controlling speed on industrial machines.

Week 2: Understanding Industrial Tools and Materials

• Overview of sewing tools specific to industrial settings (e.g., seam guides, clippers, specialty feet).

• Introduction to professional garment fabrics and their properties.

• Proper fabric preparation: marking, cutting, and handling in bulk production.

Week 3: Basic Industrial Sewing Techniques

• Mastering straight seams, edge finishing, and seam allowances.

• Introduction to overlock/serger stitching for clean finishes.

• Practice: sewing fabric panels with consistent quality and speed.

Week 4: Industrial Seams and Finishing

• Exploring various industrial seams: French seams, flat-felled seams, and topstitching.

• Hands-on practice with seam finishing for durability and aesthetics.

• Project: creating a seam sampler with different techniques.

Week 5: Industrial Speed and Precision Techniques

• Techniques for maintaining precision at high speeds.

• Handling bulk fabric efficiently while maintaining accuracy.

• Time trials: increasing sewing speed while ensuring quality control.

Week 6: Working with Specialty Machines

• Introduction to specialized machines like coverstitch, bar tacking, and buttonhole machines.

• Hands-on practice with each machine for basic operations.

• Project: sewing a sample with multiple machine applications (e.g., hemmed and reinforced piece).

Week 7: Garment Assembly Basics

• Understanding the production flow in garment construction.

• Sequential assembly of garment pieces for efficiency.

• Project: constructing a simple garment like a t-shirt or apron.

Week 8: Professional Sewing Standards

• Introduction to garment industry standards and quality control.

• Identifying and correcting common sewing errors.

• Practice: inspecting and refining work to meet professional standards.

Week 9: Production Workflow and Team Collaboration

• Simulating a production line setup: dividing tasks and working collaboratively.

• Emphasizing consistency and efficiency in a team setting.

• Mock production exercise: creating a batch of identical garments.

Week 10: Final Project and Assessment

• Students design and sew a final garment, incorporating techniques learned throughout the course.

• Focus on professional quality, speed, and finishing.

• Showcase and feedback session with peer and instructor review.

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Industrial Sewing 201: Advanced Professional Sewing Techniques

Duration: 10 Weeks, 3 Hours per Class

Week 1: Advanced Industrial Machine Techniques

• Exploring advanced functions and attachments for industrial machines.

• Introduction to programmable sewing machines.

• Practice with challenging materials like stretch, denim, and lightweight fabrics.

Week 2: Precision Sewing for Professional Garments

• Perfecting edge stitching, double-needle stitching, and decorative topstitching.

• Techniques for handling small pieces and complex curves.

• Practice: sewing precision samples for collars, cuffs, and pocket details.

Week 3: Garment Construction Efficiency

• Techniques for minimizing production time while maintaining quality.

• Practicing chain-stitching and continuous sewing methods.

• Project: constructing a simple garment with time benchmarks.

Week 4: Advanced Seam and Hem Techniques

• Mastering seams for professional applications (e.g., blind hems, stretch seams, reinforced seams).

• Hands-on practice with industrial hemming equipment.

• Project: creating a seam and hem sample portfolio.

Week 5: Bulk Production Techniques

• Handling large-scale production setups: cutting, sewing, and finishing in bulk.

• Managing fabric waste and maximizing efficiency.

• Practice: completing a small production run of a simple garment.

Week 6: Working with Technical and Specialty Fabrics

• Techniques for handling fabrics like waterproof, coated, or insulated materials.

• Adjusting machine settings and using specialized tools for technical fabrics.

• Practice: sewing a sample with technical fabric and reinforcement features.

Week 7: Quality Control and Professional Standards

• Advanced quality control methods for professional sewing.

• Inspecting seams, hems, and finishes for industry standards.

• Practice: refining previously sewn garments for quality assurance.

Week 8: Complex Garment Assembly

• Sewing multi-piece garments with linings, zippers, and detailed construction.

• Techniques for ensuring alignment and consistency.

• Project: constructing a tailored or structured garment.

Week 9: Production Management and Team Roles

• Understanding the roles in a production line and effective workflow management.

• Simulating production challenges and problem-solving.

• Collaborative project: batch production of a professional-grade garment.

Week 10: Final Project and Certification

• Designing and completing a final professional-grade garment.

• Review and feedback session with a focus on professional readiness.

• Certification of completion for students who meet quality and skill standards.

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These curricula ensure students not only learn industrial sewing techniques but also understand the expectations and workflow of professional garment production. They’ll leave ready to excel in a factory setting or start their own production ventures.

Introduction to Fashion Illustration Courses

Fashion illustration is the art of bringing your creative visions to life through dynamic, expressive sketches. My Fashion Illustration courses are designed to inspire your creativity and help you develop the skills needed to communicate your unique ideas effectively. Whether you’re a beginner eager to learn the fundamentals or an experienced artist looking to refine your craft, these classes offer a comprehensive journey into the world of fashion sketching.

You’ll learn to create professional-quality illustrations, starting with the basics of proportion, anatomy, and garment rendering, and progressing to advanced techniques like fabric representation, color theory, and storytelling through design. We’ll explore a variety of traditional and digital tools, ensuring you can bring your ideas to life in any medium.

By the end of these courses, you’ll have a strong foundation in fashion illustration and a portfolio of your work that showcases your personal style and technical expertise. Whether you aspire to design for the runway, create editorial illustrations, or simply express your passion for fashion, these classes will help you turn your vision into reality.

Let’s transform your ideas into stunning, vibrant illustrations and unlock your potential as a fashion artist!

Fashion Illustration 101: Foundations of Fashion Sketching

Duration: 10 Weeks, 3 Hours per Class

Week 1: Introduction to Fashion Illustration

• Overview of fashion illustration and its role in design.

• Basic drawing tools and materials: pencils, markers, erasers, and paper types.

• Understanding the 9-head figure proportion for fashion sketches.

• Practice: sketching basic fashion figure poses.

Week 2: Anatomy for Fashion Design

• Simplified anatomy for accurate fashion figures.

• Drawing balanced and dynamic poses.

• Focus on proportion and symmetry.

• Practice: sketching front, side, and back views of the fashion figure.

Week 3: Rendering Garments on Figures

• Basics of illustrating clothing on a figure: drape, fit, and movement.

• Drawing tops, skirts, and pants with simple folds.

• Practice: creating a basic outfit on the 9-head figure.

Week 4: Fabric Representation Basics

• Introduction to rendering textures (e.g., cotton, denim, leather).

• Techniques for shading and highlighting fabric details.

• Practice: illustrating fabric swatches on garments.

Week 5: Exploring Color in Fashion Illustration

• Basics of color theory and its application in fashion design.

• Using markers, colored pencils, and watercolor for garment rendering.

• Practice: illustrating an outfit with emphasis on color harmony.

Week 6: Accessorizing Fashion Sketches

• Drawing accessories: shoes, bags, and hats.

• Adding finishing details like jewelry and belts to complement designs.

• Practice: creating a fully accessorized look.

Week 7: Capturing Movement and Style

• Sketching figures in motion: walking, sitting, and dynamic poses.

• Illustrating garments that show movement, such as flowing skirts.

• Practice: drawing a figure with a garment in motion.

Week 8: Fashion Collection Concepts

• Introduction to creating cohesive design concepts.

• Sketching a mini-collection with three cohesive looks.

• Practice: creating thumbnails for a fashion collection.

Week 9: Final Project Draft

• Drafting final illustrations for a single look or collection.

• Incorporating feedback to refine sketches.

• Practice: creating detailed sketches with attention to design, color, and proportion.

Week 10: Final Project and Showcase

• Completing polished fashion illustrations for final submission.

• Group critique and celebration of progress.

• Final project showcase and individual feedback.

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Fashion Illustration 201: Advanced Techniques and Portfolio Development

Duration: 10 Weeks, 3 Hours per Class

Week 1: Advanced Figure Drawing

• Refining the 9-head figure with advanced poses and angles.

• Exploring exaggerated and stylized proportions for editorial sketches.

• Practice: sketching fashion figures with unique style lines.

Week 2: High-Fashion Details

• Adding intricate garment details like pleats, ruffles, and embellishments.

• Rendering advanced fabric textures (e.g., lace, metallics, sequins).

• Practice: illustrating garments with complex detailing.

Week 3: Advanced Fabric Rendering

• Techniques for illustrating luxurious fabrics like silk, velvet, and chiffon.

• Mastering light, shadow, and reflection in fabric rendering.

• Practice: creating swatches of different fabric types in illustration.

Week 4: Digital Fashion Illustration Basics

• Introduction to digital tools like Procreate, Adobe Illustrator, or Photoshop.

• Drawing fashion figures and garments digitally.

• Practice: replicating a sketch using digital tools.

Week 5: Dynamic Composition and Storytelling

• Creating illustrations that convey mood, theme, or narrative.

• Composing figures in fashion settings (e.g., runway, editorial).

• Practice: designing an illustration with a storytelling element.

Week 6: Portfolio Development

• Creating a cohesive set of illustrations for a professional portfolio.

• Highlighting personal design style and strengths.

• Practice: selecting and refining work for inclusion in a portfolio.

Week 7: Multi-Look Illustrations

• Sketching coordinated collections with multiple looks.

• Maintaining consistency in style and proportion across designs.

• Practice: illustrating a capsule collection of 4–6 looks.

Week 8: Experimental Techniques and Mediums

• Exploring non-traditional tools like collage, ink, and mixed media.

• Incorporating unconventional elements to enhance illustrations.

• Practice: creating experimental sketches with unique materials.

Week 9: Final Project Draft and Refinement

• Developing a complete illustration project (e.g., editorial spread, collection concept).

• Receiving one-on-one feedback and refining designs.

• Practice: creating high-quality, polished illustrations for presentation.

Week 10: Final Presentation and Review

• Presenting final projects to the group for critique and feedback.

• Preparing illustrations for a professional portfolio or exhibition.

• Celebrating achievements and discussing next steps for advancing skills.

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These classes will prepare students to master fashion illustration, from foundational skills to advanced techniques. Students will leave with a polished portfolio showcasing their unique style and technical expertise, ready to impress in design school, the fashion industry, or their own ventures.