About the Workshop

Join Lindsay Krage for a two-day workshop to learn the basics of sewing a beginner friendly garment. Although some sewing experience is required, no garment sewing is necessary. The pattern being used for this course is the Ruby Vest by Syd Graham Patterns, a size inclusive vest pattern with several customizable options. You will learn pattern preparation, sizing, basic terminology, and the process of following pattern directions. With the skills learned in this class, you will gain confidence in sewing and grow your understanding of garment patterns. Your vest can be customized if desired, using appliqué, embroidery, or color blocking. Feel free to bring a special patch or your ideas for customization – we’ll do our best to assist you in your vision.

In order to produce a single cotton shirt, approximately 700 gallons of water are needed according to GW Law: Environmental and Energy Law. Because of this, fast fashion is the second most water-intensive industry in the world. Slowing down your fashion choices by either making your own garments or supporting those artists that make long lasting wears, you help create a more sustainable wardrobe. It is our hope to help you start your journey into garment sewing, slowing down your wardrobe a little, and creating long lasting garments together.
In this course, each participant will create a custom vest from a purchased sewing pattern. Participants will first be guided through sizing and choosing a pattern size. Participants will prepare their pattern and learn the basics about cutting pattern pieces for garments. Everyone will be guided through sewing and making their vest their own. This can include, but is not limited to, quilting, chain stitching, and applique.

Participants will learn about 'indie patterns', printing digital patterns, body measurements, fabric preparation and cutting, and finally sewing garments on a home sewing machine. Additional skills may include binding, quilting, applique, and chain stitching.

Program materials: This workshop’s materials fee covers a portion of the required materials and equipment for this workshop, including quilt batting, embroidery thread, sewing needles, bias tape, marking tools, pins, and quilting rulers.

Participants responsible for bringing: sewing machine, fabric scissors, exterior and interior fabric*, thread for their machine in the correct color for your fabric. *we will provide some ideas for textiles you could pre-order. We estimate around $30-40/vest for linen, denim or twill. You will also need to purchase the Ruby Vest Sewing Pattern ($16) your desired size (MMAM will print it).

About the Instructor

Lindsay Krage is a seamstress and fiber artist based out of Winona, Minnesota. As a young girl, she was taught to sew and craft by her mother and grandmother, instilling a love of handcraft at an early age. Her grandmother is the namesake for her farmstead, “Salome Acres,” where she raises a flock of sheep, tends a large garden, and houses her small studio space. She is a proud dabbler in the world of crafts and trades, but a master of a few, who loves to keep learning. Her current venture is utilizing the fiber from her sheep to spin yarn and knit her own wool clothing. She has recently begun teaching quilting classes and hopes to continue sharing her passion of craft with others.

Salome Acres (website)
Salome Acres (@salomeacres) • Instagram photos and videos