Garment Sewing Fundamentals 201 - Virtual Retreat
Garment Sewing Fundamentals 201 - Virtual Retreat
Garment Sewing Fundamentals 201 - Virtual Retreat
Garment Sewing Fundamentals 201 - Virtual Retreat
Garment Sewing Fundamentals 201 - Virtual Retreat
Garment Sewing Fundamentals 201 - Virtual Retreat
Garment Sewing Fundamentals 201 - Virtual Retreat
Garment Sewing Fundamentals 201 - Virtual Retreat
Garment Sewing Fundamentals 201 - Virtual Retreat

Garment Sewing Fundamentals 201 - Virtual Retreat

Regular price $349.95
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Join us for a 2-day virtual sewing retreat on the fundamentals of garment sewing. Developing a strong foundation will set you up for a lifetime of sewing success. Hosted by Workroom Social and taught by Christine Haynes.

[SOLD OUT] Our Winter 2023 retreat class days are as follows:

  • Weekend Edition: Saturday, February 11 and Sunday, February 12, 2023
  • Weekday Edition: Wednesday, February 15 and Thursday, February 16, 2023

Please read our full schedule below that includes our optional group working sessions, planning meetings, and celebration events.

Registration requirements

Garment Sewing Fundamentals 201 is designed for sewists who don't have a cohesive and comprehensive foundation in garment sewing skills. It's designed for both new sewists and active sewists who aren't succeeding in or satisfied with their garment construction skills.

To register for 201, students must have either taken 101 or know how to...

  • measure your body correctly
  • pair fabrics with sewing machine needles
  • cut out pattern pieces on grain and understand how fabric is created
  • sew straight seams, congruent curved seams, and opposing curved seams
  • ease both straight and curved seams together
  • clip, grade, and press seams allowances
  • sew a basic dart

Scroll down for full retreat details.

Not sure if 201 is right for you? Get in touch! You can email Jennifer at hello @ workroomsocial.com or call her in the studio at 646-481-1650.

Thank you for being a part of our community! Whether you are coming to see us in our Brooklyn studio, working with our fabrics or patterns, or joining us at Camp Workroom Social, we want to ensure that every Workroom Social sewist has the best experience possible. To help with this, please read and understand our Terms of Service and Refund Policy before you register for an event or buy a product from us. When you register for an event or buy a product from us, you agree to our Terms of Service and Refund Policy.

Our Terms of Service and Refund Policy include important information and policies regarding Health and Wellness at our events. Both are updated regularly, so please click through to read them in full.

If you have questions about these terms and policies, please reach out before you register for an event or buy a product. You can email us at hello @ workroomsocial.com or call us at 646-481-1650. We're here and happy to help you!

If your sewing education has been pieced together from a sewing book here and a tutorial there, you'll have gaps in your knowledge. In this virtual retreat you'll learn critical skills to sewing well-made clothing and how each step affects the success of your finished garment. Our virtual retreat is perfect for those new to garment sewing, as well as active sewists who've never built a cohesive and comprehensive base of skills.

▶︎ What you'll learn

Designed for sewists who have a strong foundation in our 101 skills (see the registration requirements above). The classes in this virtual retreat cover how to…

  • use specialty sewing machine needles including jeans, topstitch, wedge point/leather, and twin needles

  • use specialty sewing machine feet including the invisible zipper, blind hem, and buttonhole feet

  • choose and correctly install different kinds of interfacing

  • match and cut stripes and plaids

  • sew buttonholes using 1-step, 4-step, and manual techniques on the sewing machine

  • hand sew shirt buttons, buttons with a thread shank, and reinforced buttons

  • sew pintucks

  • use elastic thread correctly for shirring

  • install an invisible zipper

  • sew French and fisheye/contoured darts

  • sew inverted/box and knife pleats

  • install a bias facing on a curved edge

  • sew a set-in sleeve

  • sew in-seam pockets

  • sew a narrow/baby and blind hem on the sewing machine

  • sew French and flat-felled seams

The classes in this virtual retreat don't cover how to…

  • fit patterns for your body

  • grade sewing patterns

  • make fit alterations

Special note about choosing sewing pattern sizes: Due to time restrictions, Christine won't be able to assist individual attendees on choosing their unique sewing pattern sizes. If you'd like help choosing a pattern size, join Jennifer during a group working session for assistance. See schedule below.

▶︎ Schedule

Our Winter 2023 retreat class days are as follows:
  • Weekend Edition: Saturday, February 11 and Sunday, February 12, 2023
  • Weekday Edition: Wednesday, February 15 and Thursday, February 16, 2023

Please read our full schedule below that includes our optional group working sessions, planning meetings, and celebration events.

Weekend Edition

Saturday, February 11, 2023

Class Day 1
12:00–5:00 p.m. (9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Pacific)

Online class with Christine Haynes. Includes a 30 minute break. Focus on learning critical concepts and techniques.

5:30–6:30 p.m. Eastern (2:30–3:30 p.m. Pacific)
Group working session led by Jennifer Wiese. Students are split into breakout rooms of 3–5 sewists to create space for better conversation. Jennifer is available to answer questions and help students.

Sunday, February 12, 2023

Class Day 2
12:00–5:00 p.m. (9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Pacific)

Online class with Christine Haynes. Includes a 30 minute break. Focus on applying critical concepts and practicing techniques. Students actively sew on Class Day 2.

Weekday Edition

Wednesday, February 15, 2023

Class Day 1
12:00–5:00 p.m. Eastern (9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Pacific)

Online class with Christine Haynes. Includes a 30 minute break. Focus on learning critical concepts and techniques.

5:30–6:30 p.m. Eastern (2:30–3:30 p.m. Pacific)
Group working session led by Jennifer Wiese. Students are split into breakout rooms of 3–5 sewists to create space for better conversation. Jennifer is available to answer questions and help students.

Thursday, February 16, 2023

Class Day 2
12:00–5:00 p.m. Eastern (9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Pacific)

Online class with Christine Haynes. Includes a 30 minute break. Focus on applying critical concepts and practicing techniques. Students actively sew on Class Day 2.

In addition to our class days, our Winter 2023 retreats include the following optional group working sessions, planning meetings, and celebration events.

Thursday, January 12, 2023

Retreat Welcome and Orientation
8:15–9:00 p.m. Eastern (5:15–6:00 p.m. Pacific)

Led by Jennifer Wiese. Come to meet your fellow classmates and ask any questions you might have in preparation for class with Christine. Get clarification on class tools and supplies, how to use Zoom, how to navigate our virtual classroom, or to ask general questions about what to expect from our retreat schedule. If time permits after Q+A, students can join breakout rooms of 3–5 sewists for conversation.

Saturday, February 4, 2023

Group Working Session
4:00–5:00 p.m. Eastern (1:00–2:00 p.m. Pacific)

Led by Jennifer Wiese. Work on cutting out your pattern pieces to prepare for class with other students in our group working sessions. Students are split into breakout rooms of 3–5 sewists to create space for better conversation. Jennifer is available to answer questions and help students.

Wednesday, February 8, 2023

Group Working Session
2:00–3:00 p.m. Eastern (11:00 a.m–12:00 p.m. Pacific)

Led by Jennifer Wiese. Work on cutting out your pattern pieces to prepare for class with other students in our group working sessions. Students are split into breakout rooms of 3–5 sewists to create space for better conversation. Jennifer is available to answer questions and help students.

Saturday, February 18, 2022

Group Working Session
12:00–2:00 p.m. Eastern (9:00–11:00 a.m. Pacific)

Led by Jennifer Wiese. Pick a sewing pattern to make, and work on it with other students in our group working sessions. Meet and socialize with other sewists, get group feedback on your project, and make progress on your garment. Students are split into breakout rooms of 3–5 sewists to create space for better conversation. Jennifer is available to answer questions and help students.

Thursday, February 23, 2022

Group Working Session
12:00–2:00 p.m. Eastern (9:00–11:00 a.m. Pacific)

Led by Jennifer Wiese. Pick a sewing pattern to make, and work on it with other students in our group working sessions. Meet and socialize with other sewists, get group feedback on your project, and make progress on your garment. Students are split into breakout rooms of 3–5 sewists to create space for better conversation. Jennifer is available to answer questions and help students.

Wednesday, March 8, 2023

Retreat Celebration!
8:15–9:15 p.m. Eastern (5:15–6:15 p.m. Pacific)

Led by Jennifer Wiese. Our Retreat Celebration is a virtual Show-and-Tell event where students can feature the work they've done after completing class. Projects can be both a work-in-progress or completed. All students are encouraged to attend even if they don't want to present. Come to watch and support your peers. It's fun and inspirational to see all the things people have made!

▶︎ Logistics

Our virtual retreats are hosted through SocialSewists.com using the platform Mighty Networks. Online classes and working sessions take place on Zoom. Students need a computer, smart phone, or tablet with internet access to participate. Within 72 hours of registration, students will receive an email with instructions on how to set up their Social Sewists account and access class information. Confirmations are sent to the email address used at checkout.

▶︎ What's included

Each retreat includes the following with registration:

  • 2 live class sessions with Christine Haynes
  • Recorded playbacks of the 2 class sessions
  • 1 live Welcome and Q+A session led by Jennifer Wiese
  • 6 live group working sessions led by Jennifer Wiese
  • 1 live Celebration session led by Jennifer Wiese
  • Digital sewing pattern pieces for the class exercises
  • Opportunities to connect with the other sewists in your virtual retreat
  • Access to Social Sewists, Workroom Social's online sewing community

▶︎ Registration fees

Choose from 3 registration options.

Option 1—Retreat only
$259.99

Option 2—Retreat plus 6-months membership to our Lab and Lounge for Social Sewists
$337.99
Get $42 off a 6-month membership to our Lab and Lounge for Social Sewists. Join other sewists in our Lab and Lounge to attend live virtual and in-person events, watch recorded tutorials, get support and tools to improve your sewing, and make new sewing friends! 1 live event each week.

Option 3—Retreat plus 1-year membership to our Lab and Lounge for Social Sewists
$409.99
Get $90 off a 12-month membership to our Lab and Lounge for Social Sewists. Join other sewists in our Lab and Lounge to attend live virtual and in-person events, watch recorded tutorials, get support and tools to improve your sewing, and make new sewing friends! 1 live event each week.

▶︎ Registration requirements

Garment Sewing Fundamentals 201 is designed for sewists who don't have a cohesive and comprehensive foundation in garment sewing skills. It's designed for both new sewists and active sewists who aren't succeeding in or satisfied with their garment construction skills.

To register for 201, students must have either taken 101 or know how to...

  • measure your body correctly
  • pair fabrics with sewing machine needles
  • cut out pattern pieces on grain and understand how fabric is created
  • sew straight seams, congruent curved seams, and opposing curved seams
  • ease both straight and curved seams together
  • clip, grade, and press seams allowances
  • sew a basic dart

Not sure if 201 is right for you? Get in touch! You can email Jennifer at hello @ workroomsocial.com or call her in the studio at 646-481-1650.

▶︎ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: This is exactly what I'm looking for! How do I register?

Scroll up and select your class dates and registration option to register.

Q: I can't make these dates, do you know when you'll be hosting these virtual retreats again?

We don't have future dates scheduled at this time. We do hope to run Garment Sewing Fundamentals 101 and 201 again in the future. The best way to learn when registration opens is to join Workroom Social's mailing list.

Q: How much does it cost to attend this virtual retreat?

Choose from the following 3 options to register for Garment Sewing Fundamentals 201:

Option 1—Retreat only
$259.99

Option 2—Retreat plus 6-months membership to our Lab and Lounge for Social Sewists
$337.99
Get $42 off a 6-month membership to our Lab and Lounge for Social Sewists. Join other sewists in our Lab and Lounge to attend live virtual and in-person events, watch recorded tutorials, get support and tools to improve your sewing, and make new sewing friends! 1 live event each week.

Option 3—Retreat plus 1-year membership to our Lab and Lounge for Social Sewists
$409.99
Get $90 off a 12-month membership to our Lab and Lounge for Social Sewists. Join other sewists in our Lab and Lounge to attend live virtual and in-person events, watch recorded tutorials, get support and tools to improve your sewing, and make new sewing friends! 1 live event each week.

Q: How long will I have access to the classes in this virtual retreat?

Students get access to the recorded classes for the lifetime of the class. That means as long as the platform is available, you'll have access to the recordings.

Q: Are the classes in this virtual retreat live or recorded to watch on-demand?

The classes during our virtual retreats happen live, and we encourage students to attend live to ask questions in real-time and engage with their fellow students. Classes are recorded for those who can't attend live and can be watched on-demand as often as you want. Group working sessions are not recorded and must be attended at their scheduled times.

Q: Who are your virtual retreats designed for?

Garment Sewing Fundamentals 101 and 201 are designed for sewists who don't have a cohesive and comprehensive foundation in garment sewing skills. It's designed for both new sewists and active sewists who aren't succeeding in or satisfied with their garment construction skills.

To register for 201, students must have either taken 101 or know how to...

  • measure your body correctly
  • pair fabrics with sewing machine needles
  • cut out pattern pieces on grain and understand how fabric is created
  • sew straight seams, congruent curved seams, and opposing curved seams
  • ease both straight and curved seams together
  • clip, grade, and press seams allowances
  • sew a basic dart

Q: Will this virtual retreat teach me how to sew?

Yes! More specifically, it will teach you how to sew clothing using sewing patterns. It will not teach you how to operate a sewing machine. All students must know how to operate their individual sewing machines.

Q: Will I sew a garment in this virtual retreat?

No, you will not sew a complete garment in Garment Sewing Fundamentals. Students learn the garment sewing skills listed above, and apply this knowledge to sewing sample pieces using sewing patterns developed specifically for the class.

At the end of class, students see how the specific skills are used in different garment sewing patterns. Students are encouraged to choose a sewing pattern to create immediately following class, and they can start work on them in the optional group working sessions that take place after the class sessions end.

Q: Will these classes teach me how to make adjustments to my sewing pattern to alter the fit?

No, the classes in Garment Sewing Fundamentals do not cover how to make adjustments to sewing patterns.

Q: Can I find this information on YouTube for free?

You can find some of the information in this class for free online. However, as expert sewists and experts in adult-skills-training, Christine Haynes and Jennifer Wiese developed this virtual retreat to teach sewists a comprehensive foundation for garment sewing. The classes in our virtual retreat are taught in a systematic way so that knowledge builds on itself, setting up our students for sewing success. When you register for this virtual retreat, not only do you receive the class materials, which were specifically developed to teach this topic, you also get help from experts and your fellow students in our online class community. And remember! By registering for this class, you're supporting a small business too.

Q: What if I want a refund on my class registration?

Due to the nature of digital products, Workroom Social does not offer refunds on class and event registrations. All registrations are final sale. You can read more about our Terms, Conditions, and Refunds policy at https://workroomsocial.com/terms.

Table of Contents

AboutDatesLocationScheduleClass IntensivesWhat's IncludedLodging OptionsFAQHealth and Wellness PoliciesTerms of Service and Refund PolicyTravel Insurance

About Our Sleepaway Sewing Retreat for Adults

Camp Workroom Social's Fall Camp is a four-day, three-night summer camp-inspired adult sewing retreat that combines focused skill-building with community-building. Each camper joins one intensive class, structured to deepen your technical knowledge and boost your confidence in fashion sewing. The weekend is filled with hands-on learning, some outdoor adventures, and the kind of joy that can only come from being a kid again at summer camp.

Designed for challenging your sewing skills, expanding your creativity, and making new friends, Camp Workroom Social blends the magic of a sleepaway camp experience with the structure of an intensive sewing class. Whether you're trying something new or building on what you already know, you'll leave with fresh skills, a new community of sewists, and renewed energy for sewing your own clothes.

What to Expect

Throughout the retreat, each camper participates in one intensive sewing class. Our classes are designed to expand your technical knowledge, reinforce fundamentals, and build problem-solving confidence in your garment sewing practice.

When you're not in class, you can join a variety of camp-inspired activities, including arts and crafts, hiking, ziplining, or relaxing with fellow campers. Some years we even have a haunted trail hike!

Our staff specializes in teaching sewing to adult learners in a relaxed, non-competitive setting. At Camp Workroom Social, we embrace experimentation and curiosity over perfection, giving you space to grow, explore, and connect with other campers through sewing. Great sewing comes with time and practice, and our goal is to give you the skills, the confidence, and the support of a community to help you continue your sewing journey at home.

Dates

Friday, October 16–Monday, October 19, 2026

Location

Camp takes place at Frost Valley YMCA—located on over 5,000 acres in the heart of the Catskill Mountains, just 2.5 hours north of New York City.

Learn more about getting to Camp in our Travel Guide, which includes information on transportation options to and from Frost Valley YMCA and flying in and out of New York City.

Schedule

Campers receive final event schedules upon arrival. The schedule below is for planning purposes only.

Friday, October 16, 2026

12:00 p.m. Bus departs Midtown Manhattan, NYC for Camp Workroom Social

3:00 p.m. Bus arrives at Camp Workroom Social and registration begins

4:15 p.m. All Camp Welcome and Orientation

5:30 p.m. Dinner in the Dining Hall

6:30 p.m. Sewing Intensive Orientation

7:30 p.m. Camp PJ Party

10:30 p.m. Quiet hours begin in lodges

Sunday, October 18, 2026

7:00 a.m. Early Morning Hike, Run, and/or Yoga

8:00 a.m. Breakfast in the Dining Hall

9:00 a.m. Sewing Intensive Day 2

12:15 p.m. Lunch in the Dining Hall

1:00 p.m. Sewing Intensive Day 2 resumes

5:30 p.m. Dinner in the Dining Hall

7:00 p.m. Me-made Spectacular and Fashion Show Celebration

11:00 p.m. Quiet hours begin in lodges

Saturday, October 17, 2026

7:00 a.m. Early Morning Hike, Run, and/or Yoga

8:00 a.m. Breakfast in the Dining Hall

9:00 a.m. Sewing Intensive Day 1

12:15 p.m. Lunch in the Dining Hall

1:00 p.m. Sewing Intensive Day 1 resumes

5:30 p.m. Dinner in the Dining Hall

7:00 p.m. Maker Fair Periods 1 and 2

11:00 p.m. Quiet hours begin in lodges

Monday, October 19, 2026

7:00 a.m. Early Morning Pack-Up and Move-Out

8:00 a.m. Breakfast in the Dining Hall

9:00 a.m. Camp Activities Periods 1 and 2

11:00 a.m. Closing Ceremony and Lunch in the Dining Hall

1:00 p.m. Buses depart Camp Workroom Social for NYC

4:30 p.m. Buses arrive in NYC

Sewing Class Intensives

Camp is designed for those with some sewing experience, and our sewing intensives will help you further develop the skills you already have.

Are you an absolute beginner? Don’t worry! You’re still invited to register as long as you build up your basic skills before Camp.

Class sizes can range from 8 to 12 campers in a class, with one dedicated instructor.

If you’re not sure if our classes are right for your skill level, or if you have any questions about a specific class, please reach out to Jennifer. I'm super excited to talk Camp with you!

2026 Class Intensives

When registering, you must select one of the following classes...

Please read through all class descriptions carefully. Once registered, classes may not be changed, transferred, or cancelled.

Campers receive tools and supplies lists and sourcing resources at least one month before Camp. Some classes may require campers to purchase a supply kit for class, while other classes may have an optional supply kit for sale. Campers will be notified when kits are available.

Additionally, some classes may require sewing-related prep work at home prior to arrival at Camp. If you're interested in a class that requires advance work, only register for that class if you can complete the prep work as described.

Couture Hand Sewing Skills with Brooks Ann Camper

Learn the fundamentals and benefits of hand sewing. Campers in Couture Hand Sewing Skills practice and get comfortable with a wide variety of temporary and permanent hand stitching techniques. Campers see real-life examples of techniques used in clothing construction, while creating a useful resource notebook full of samples to reference for future projects.

Topics covered in this class include...

  • the best tools for successful hand sewing.
  • tricks for threading needles and tying successful knots.
  • how to avoid or remove thread tangles when hand sewing.
  • how to use a thimble for faster hand sewing.
  • how to sew a wide variety of temporary and permanent hand stitches and when to use them.
  • how to sew various closures including buttons, hooks, and zippers.
  • couture techniques such as...
    • underlining, including why to use it and how to sew it.
    • various hem finishing techniques including invisible hems and rolled hems.
    • how to use ribbon in waistbands, curved hems, and more.
    • how to sew thread chains and bars and when to use them.
  • the value of hand sewing and how it can be used to upgrade the quality of your handmade sewn projects.
  • how to use your resource notebook at home for future projects.

Campers are responsible for purchasing and bringing their own tools to Camp.

Campers in this class are required to purchase a Hand Sewing Skills kit from Workroom Social prior to Camp. This kit includes some of Brooks Ann’s favorite hand sewing tools, as well as prepared samples in a variety of fabrics. Samples allow campers to jump right into the coursework without having to do any of the advance prep at home. This class kit costs $75. Enrolled campers will receive instructions on how to purchase their kit prior to Camp.

This class is perfect for campers who want to improve their hand sewing skills, who want to learn couture techniques for fine sewing, or who want to learn strategies to elevate their current sewing skill set to get better results out of their garment sewing at home.

This class is appropriate for all skill levels.

Creative Fashion Design for Sewists: How to Modify Sewing Patterns Using Flat Patternmaking Techniques with Katy Patzel

Learn how to transform the sewing patterns you already love into brand-new designs using flat patternmaking techniques. In this creativity-focused class, campers use scaled-down versions of sewing patterns to gain the skills to evaluate sewing patterns, understand how basic flat patternmaking techniques translate into sewn shape, and modify sewing patterns to create new styles. You’ll learn how to interpret design inspiration and apply patternmaking techniques to customize and hack existing patterns from your stash. Please note, this class is not about altering patterns for fit.

Topics covered in this class include how to...

  • evaluate patterns for modification potential.
  • look at photos of sewn garments and understand how you might modify an existing pattern to achieve a similar design.
  • modify bodice, skirt, and pant sewing patterns.
  • change neckline styles.
  • move darts and transfer dart volume.
  • create seams from darts, like princess seams.
  • add design features like yokes and color blocking.
  • modify pant rise and leg shape.
  • add volume to sleeves.
  • use rulers and patternmaking tools.

Campers are responsible for purchasing and bringing their own tools and supplies to Camp.

This class is perfect for campers who are curious about how sewing patterns work, want to expand their creativity through patternmaking, or are interested in learning how to modify their tried-and-true sewing patterns to create more style and design variation in their projects.

This class is designed for intermediate sewists and above. To be successful in this intensive class, campers need experience in...

  • understanding seam allowance.
  • sewing straight and curved seams.
  • easing fabric together.
  • sewing darts.
  • identifying different sewing pattern pieces by sight.
  • reading and understanding sewing patterns and instructions.
  • successfully sewing clothes using sewing patterns.
  • patternhacking.

Interested in this intensive class, but not sure if it's a good match for your skill level? Email us! We're excited to talk Camp with you.

Dressmaking for All Busts: How to Alter and Sew a Fitted Bodice Dress with Carrie McGowan

Learn how to alter and fit a close-fitting woven bodice using the Upton Dress from Cashmerette Patterns. Campers in this class learn essential fitting techniques for the bust, waist, and shoulders, that you can use to fit and alter other dress and top patterns. You’ll create a custom-fit muslin bodice, learn how to assess fit on your body, and build confidence to tackle future projects on your own at home. Please note, this is a fit-focused class, and campers sew using muslin.

Topics covered in this class include how to...

  • choose your sewing pattern size using different measuring and grading techniques.
  • sew a simplified muslin to assess fit.
  • assess bodice fit based on your personal fitting preferences.
  • plan your alterations strategy using iterative fitting techniques.
  • make common bust fit adjustments, including full bust and small bust adjustments.
  • adjust darts.
  • make common shoulder adjustments, including sloping shoulder, gaping armhole, and broad/narrow back adjustments.
  • proof your adjustments to ensure your altered pattern pieces will sew together correctly.

Campers are responsible for purchasing and bringing their own tools and supplies to Camp.

Sewing machines are provided for camper use. You’re welcome to bring your own sewing machine if you prefer. If you choose to bring your own machine, please bring your sewing machine manual and accessories as well, including a zipper foot.

This class is perfect for campers who struggle with fitting bodices, who want to learn bodice fitting techniques, or who want to improve their current bodice fitting skills.

This is a fit-focused class appropriate for advanced beginners and up. To be successful in this intensive class, campers need experience in...

  • setting up, operating, and troubleshooting sewing machines.
  • sewing straight and curved seams.
  • easing fabric together.
  • installing zippers (any kind).
  • reading and understanding sewing patterns.
  • sewing clothes using sewing patterns.

Designed as a fit-focused class, campers work on creating one or more bodice muslins. Campers shouldn't expect to sew a full garment at Camp to have a successful experience. Carrie will discuss sewing the bodice to the skirt, but time likely won't allow for sewing a full dress. In addition, campers shouldn't expect to sew their dress in fashion fabric at Camp. Carrie will discuss how fabrication affects garment fit, and campers may bring fashion fabric swatches for evaluation.

Interested in this intensive class, but not sure if it's a good match for your skill level? Email us! We're excited to talk Camp with you.

Essential Serger Techniques with Pamela Leggett

You can do a lot more with a serger than just finishing raw edges. Learn everything you need to know about using a serger to sew clothes. Campers practice and build confidence in various serger functions by creating a resource notebook of samples and techniques, and campers see a variety of real-life applications used in garment construction. Additionally, campers apply learned skills by creating two garments in this class, a woven robe/topper and a knit sweatshirt.

Topics covered in this class include how to...

  • understand how a serger creates stitches.
  • easily change threads and needles.
  • evaluate and adjust tension for different techniques and situations.
  • engage and disengage the serger knife and why.
  • create strong, even seams.
  • secure thread tails.
  • ease fabrics.
  • seam straight edges, curves, inside corners, and outside corners.
  • seam in the round.
  • use differential feed when seaming and to create special effects.
  • hem.
  • install elastics and casings.
  • install bands and ribbing.
  • make several types of rolled hems.
  • make several types of flatlocked seams.
  • make several types of heirloom sewing techniques including...
    • heirloom seams.
    • pintucks.
    • and lace applications.
  • work with various types of garment fabrics including both wovens and knits.
  • change presser feet.
  • troubleshoot when things go wrong.
  • clean and maintain your serger.

Campers are responsible for purchasing and bringing their own tools and some supplies to Camp.

Campers in this class are required to purchase a Serger Skills kit from Workroom Social prior to Camp. This kit includes sewing pattern licenses, prepared samples in a variety of fabrics, and printed worksheets that all come together in a resource folder. Our sewing samples allow campers to jump right into the coursework without having to cut and prepare fabrics at home. This class kit costs $77. Enrolled campers will receive instructions on how to purchase their kit prior to Camp.

Additionally, campers are responsible for cutting fabrics for the robe and sweatshirt at home before arrival to Camp. Campers will receive PDF copies of the sewing patterns and virtual assistance with choosing their pattern size and their fashion fabrics.

Garments made in this class include...

  • Modern Peignoir Robe from Pamela's Patterns
    This woven robe or topper features a front band, tie belt, drop shoulder, and wide faux cuffs.
  • Adult Classic Sweatshirt from Peek-A-Boo Pattern Shop
    This knit sweatshirt features a relaxed fit and includes options for a hoodie or crew neck. Campers sew the crew neck version at Camp. The sleeves include options for a semi-fitted or relaxed fit.

Sergers are provided for camper use, however we strongly encourage campers in this class to bring their own sergers. Sergers can vary widely, and campers will get the best experience out of the class if they learn on their own equipment. If you bring your own serger, please bring your manual and accessories as well.

This class is perfect for campers who've owned a serger for years, who've just purchased a serger, or who are thinking about adding a serger to their home sewing studio.

This class is appropriate for all skill levels if you have experience in...

  • threading your serger.
  • reading and understanding sewing patterns.
  • sewing clothes using sewing patterns.

Interested in this intensive class, but not sure if it's a good match for your skill level? Email us! We are excited to talk Camp with you.

Foundation in Modern Tailoring Skills with Erin Proud

Start your journey into the traditional art of tailoring by building a foundation of skills that you can apply to making modern garments. Learn the thoughtful, slow, precise approach of tailoring techniques by creating a library of sample swatches that can serve as reference for future projects. This class is a mixture of lectures, demonstrations, and hands-on activities which includes both hand and machine sewing. Campers see examples of real-life tailoring including women’s suits, jackets, and pants.

Topics covered in this class include...

  • hands-on work sewing swatch samples.
  • what makes a tailored garment tailored and about the inner workings (the guts!) of a tailored garment.
  • how to shape tailored garments using different kinds of materials.
  • about tailor basting and how and when to use tailor basting to help you sew finer garments.
  • about pad stitching, how to pad stitch, and when and where to use pad stitching in a garment.
  • about shoulder pads and headers and how and when to use them.
  • how to make a thread shank button.
  • how to sew a single welt pocket.
  • how to sew a double welt pocket and buttonhole.
  • how to line and finish a sleeve with finesse.
  • how to sew a notched collar.
  • the key supplies needed to create tailored garments and where to source tailoring supplies.
  • general tailoring tips and tricks that can be applied to other projects.
  • modern tailoring shortcuts that can be applied to other garments.

Campers are responsible for purchasing and bringing their own tools to Camp.

Campers in this class are required to purchase a Tailoring Skills kit from Camp Workroom Social prior to Camp. This kit includes specialty tailoring supplies needed for this intensive class, samples for future reference, and prepared swatches in a variety of fabrics. Swatches allow campers to jump right into the coursework without having to do any of the advance prep at home. This class kit costs $75. Enrolled campers will receive instructions on how to purchase their kit prior to Camp.

Sewing machines are provided for camper use. You’re welcome to bring your own sewing machine if you prefer. If you choose to bring your own machine, please bring a walking foot as well.

This class is perfect for campers who are interested in learning sewing techniques used by professional designers and tailors.

This is an intermediate to advanced level class. To be successful in this intensive class, campers need experience in...

  • setting up, operating, and troubleshooting sewing machines.
  • sewing straight and curved seams.
  • easing fabric together.
  • constructing garments.
  • reading and understanding garment sewing patterns.

Interested in this intensive class, but not sure if it's a good match for your skill level? Email us! We're excited to talk Camp with you.

Heirloom Sewing Techniques for Contemporary Clothing with Martha Moore Porter

Learn how to sew heirloom techniques and how to incorporate them into modern sewing patterns. Campers in this class create swatches of heirloom techniques to build a personal reference that they'll use for designing a custom top (blouse) or bottom (pull-on pant) garment. After sewing all the heirloom techniques, campers will design and plan out their final projects using a modern sewing pattern of their choice. Please note, this is a techniques and design focused class, and campers shouldn't expect to sew their final garment to have a successful experience.

Topics covered in this class include...

  • the best notions and sewing machine settings to use for heirloom sewing.
  • learning the traditional materials used in heirloom sewing, how to find suitable materials in your stash, and how to think creatively about using non-traditional materials for heirloom sewing.
  • tips, tricks, and troubleshooting for working with delicate materials such as lace ribbons and lightweight fabrics.
  • how to identify different kinds of lace trim and where to use them.
  • how to sew insertion lace in multiple ways.
  • how to apply entre-deux trim.
  • how to sew different sizes and types of tucks.
  • how to make your own piping and how to apply it.
  • a look at different kinds of ruffles and how they can be used.
  • how to make and install box pleat trim.
  • how to approach designing a custom garment using heirloom sewing techniques. This includes important things to consider when planning your project, and when, where, and how to incorporate heirloom techniques in a sewing pattern that's not designed for such techniques.
  • how to combine multiple techniques in one garment, and the order in which to apply them.
  • how to modify modern sewing patterns to accommodate heirloom sewing techniques.

Campers are responsible for purchasing and bringing their own supplies and tools to Camp.

Additionally, campers in this class are required to purchase an Heirloom Sewing Trims Kit from Workroom Social prior to Camp. This kit includes the trims needed for creating swatch samples in class. It does not include fabric. This class kit costs $25. Enrolled campers will receive instructions on how to purchase their kit prior to Camp.

Campers are responsible for project preparations at home before arrival to Camp. Specific instructions will be available after registration.

Sewing machines are provided for camper use. You’re welcome to bring your own sewing machine if you prefer. If you choose to bring your own machine, please bring your sewing machine manual and accessories as well. Specific accessories will be listed in your class supplies list.

This class is perfect for campers who want to learn heirloom sewing techniques, to add new skills to their sewing toolkit, or to get creative and learn strategies for incorporating the decorative elements of heirloom techniques into modern sewing patterns.

This is an intermediate to advanced level class. To be successful in this intensive class, campers need experience in...

  • setting up, operating, and troubleshooting sewing machines.
  • sewing straight and curved seams.
  • easing fabric together.
  • reading and understanding sewing patterns.
  • successfully sewing clothes using sewing patterns without assistance from an instructor.
  • making basic flat pattern adjustments like slash and spread.

This is a techniques and design focused class. Campers taking this class should feel excited about designing a unique garment (blouse or pull-on pant) and learning how to plan out their final project to follow their design vision. While campers in this class will plan out their final project, you shouldn't expect to sew your final project in class to have a successful experience.

Interested in this intensive class, but not sure if it's a good match for your skill level? Email us! We're excited to talk Camp with you.

Jeans Fitting with Tommie Hernández

Learn how to fit and alter jeans. Choose to make the Claryville Jeans by Workroom Social or another pattern of your preference. As a fit-focused class, campers shouldn't expect to finish a final pair of jeans at Camp to have a successful experience.

Topics covered in this course include how to...

  • choose your sewing pattern size.
  • evaluate the fit of a test pair of jeans based on your personal fitting preferences.
  • plan your alterations strategy thinking about fabrication, style, and comfort.
  • make pattern alterations to change the fit of jeans.
  • proof your adjustments to ensure your altered pattern pieces will sew together correctly.
  • evaluate the fit of a second test pair of jeans made with your altered pattern.

Campers are responsible for purchasing and bringing their own tools to Camp.

Sewing machines are provided for camper use. You're welcome to bring your own sewing machine if you prefer. If you choose to bring your own machine, please bring your sewing machine manual and accessories—including a regular zipper foot and buttonhole foot—as well.

Please note, this is an intermediate to advanced level class and requires participants to already know how to sew jeans. This isn't a Jeans-making class. Campers enrolled in this class must cut and sew their own test jeans at home prior to arrival at Camp. Enrolled campers will receive preparation instructions and virtual assistance as needed.

This class is perfect for campers who want help fitting and altering their handmade jeans or for campers who want to learn pant/trouser fitting to add to their skill set.

This is an intermediate to advanced level class. To be successful in this intensive class, campers need experience in...

  • setting up, operating, and troubleshooting sewing machines.
  • reading and understanding sewing patterns.
  • successfully sewing jeans using sewing patterns.
  • using rulers to measure and mark sewing pattern pieces.

Designed as a fit-focused class, campers work on creating one or more pairs of jeans for fitting purposes. Campers shouldn't expect to sew a full and final pair of jeans at Camp to have a successful experience. Campers in this class should already know how to sew jeans and should feel comfortable sewing their final jeans projects at home after Camp.

Interested in this intensive class, but not sure if it's a good match for your skill level? Email us! We're excited to talk Camp with you.

Quilted Jacketmaking with Diana Rodgers

Learn how to sew a quilted jacket, perfect for fall layering. Campers in this class learn the tricks of creating and working with quilted textiles for fashion sewing by constructing the Fowler Jacket by Closet Core Patterns. Please note, while campers won't be piecing patchwork in class, campers are encouraged to create their own patchwork at home prior to our retreat.

Topics covered in this class include how to…

  • create quilted textiles for fashion sewing.
  • cut quilted textiles for fashion sewing.
  • sew quilted textiles for fashion sewing.
  • create and install quilted patch pockets.
  • install a bandless collar.
  • sew and install a 2-piece sleeve.
  • install bias binding for fashion sewing.
  • correctly plan and mark front closures.
  • install front closure hardware (snaps or buttons).

Campers are responsible for purchasing and bringing their own supplies and tools to Camp.

Campers are responsible for purchasing pre-made bias binding or making their own custom bias binding at home before arrival to Camp. Campers won't have time at Camp to create custom binding.

Sewing machines are provided for camper use. You’re welcome to bring your own sewing machine if you prefer. If you choose to bring your own machine, please bring your sewing machine manual and accessories—including a walking foot—as well.

This class is perfect for campers who are interested in learning how to create a quilted jacket. This class is also a good fit for campers who are interested in learning how to create quilted textiles for other fashion sewing projects. Please note, while campers won't be piecing patchwork in class, campers are encouraged to create their own patchwork at home prior to our retreat.

This is an advanced-beginner to intermediate level class. To be successful in this intensive class, campers need experience in...

  • setting up, operating, and troubleshooting sewing machines.
  • sewing straight and curved seams.
  • easing fabric together.
  • reading and understanding sewing patterns.
  • sewing clothes using sewing patterns.

Please note, while campers won't be piecing patchwork in class, campers are encouraged to create their own patchwork at home prior to our retreat. Additionally, due to the slow nature of quilting, campers should not expect to complete their quilted jackets at Camp to have a successful experience. Diana will demonstrate all of the key components of the project, and campers should leave class with the confidence to complete their jackets at home if they don't finish them at Camp.

Interested in this intensive class, but not sure if it's a good match for your skill level? Email us! We're excited to talk Camp with you.

What's Included with Registration

  • Roundtrip shuttle bus service from Midtown Manhattan, New York City. Campers may drive themselves to Frost Valley if they prefer.
  • 4-days/3-nights accommodations in our dormitory-style lodging with shared rooms of 4–6 campers in single (twin-size) bunked beds. Double and single occupancy hotel-style lodging and single occupancy cabin lodging are available on a limited basis for an additional fee.
  • One two-day intensive sewing class taught by a sewing instructor who specializes in fashion and garment sewing. Tools and supplies not included. Select intensives may require supply kits for purchase. Please read class descriptions carefully.
  • Access to a sewing work space that considers the unique needs of our campers and their class projects, in addition to the limitations of our summer camp venue.
  • Sewing machines for use (for applicable classes only). Campers may bring their own machines if they prefer.
  • Sergers for shared community use.
  • Irons and ironing boards for shared community use.
  • Various craft and sewing related workshops, which take place in addition to each camper's two-day intensive course. Select premium workshops may require supply kits for purchase to participate.
  • Camp activities which may include our PJ Party, Makers Fair, Me-Made Spectacular, and Fashion Show.
  • Additional Camp activities which may include hiking, rock climbing, ziplining, canoeing, nature workshops, and arts-and-crafts classes.
  • All meals from dinner Friday night through lunch Monday afternoon. All meals are served in the Camp Dining Hall, which hosts other guests at the same time. A variety of nutrition options are available at every meal, and we happily accommodate food allergies. For those with specific dietary needs, campers are put in touch with the Dining Hall directly to ensure every meal is safe.
  • A variety of snacks throughout each sewing day.
  • Access to Workroom Social's private online community, socialsewists.com. All retreat planning materials are located on Social Sewists, and campers can connect with each other before and after the event there as well.

Lodging Options

For Fall Camp, campers have 4 lodging options.

  • Hussey: Dormitory-style building—included with registration. No extra fee required.
  • Lakeview: Single occupancy hotel-style room—additional $650.
  • Lakeview: Double occupancy hotel-style room—additional $400.
  • Cabin: Single occupancy cabin—additional $525.

Dormitory-style Building

Registration to Fall Camp includes lodging in one of Frost Valley's dormitory-style buildings. Think ski-lodge meets summer camp. The 2-story building has 13 rooms sleeping 4 to 6 people in bunk beds with foam mattresses. Each room has its own bathroom. The lodge also features a large common room with a fireplace, where nighttime activities take place with drinks and dessert.

Just like when you went to sleepaway camp as a kid (or when you sent your little ones off for their camp adventures), every camper gets basic bedding and a towel. Basic bedding includes linens and a pillow. Want to get extra cozy in your bunk? We encourage you to bring your own additional pillows and blankets to snuggle in at night. Past campers love bringing their handmade quilts to sleep under.

↗︎ View photos of the Dorm-Style Building and Rooms

Hotel-Style Building

Campers can upgrade their lodging to Frost Valley's hotel-style building, which features full-sized beds with spring mattresses. Each room has 2 beds and one private bathroom. Campers can book a private or shared room in the hotel-style building.

↗︎ View photos of the Hotel-Style Building and Rooms

Cabin

For campers who want a more private lodging experience, we also offer single occupancy cabin upgrades. Frost Valley's summer camp-style stand-alone cabins are recently renovated and come with twin-sized bunk beds with foam mattresses. Even though these cabins sleep up to 10, campers who upgrade to a cabin will have the entire building to themselves.

Each cabin has a bathroom and shower located inside the cabin. Basic bedding and a towel are also provided. Basic bedding includes linens and a pillow. Want to get extra cozy in your bunk? We encourage you to bring your own additional pillows and blankets to snuggle in at night. Past campers love bringing their handmade quilts to sleep under.

↗︎ View photos of the Cabins

The ABCs of Camp (Our Campy FAQ)

Got questions about the nitty gritty details of Camp? Check out The ABCs of Camp, a Frequently Asked Questions article. It's a fun way to learn a bit more about what to expect from your weekend at Camp.

Health and Wellness Policies

Camp Workroom Social attendees are responsible and caring individuals who believe in overall community health. We understand that Camp is a unique event where strangers come together from all over to live and work together in close quarters. With this in mind, we take actions in our daily lives to help mitigate the risk of spreading illnesses to others at Camp.

While Workroom Social will no longer require proof of vaccinations, we ask that all attendees of our events stay current on all vaccinations including COVID-19; influenza (the flu); tetanus, diphtheria, and whooping cough; MMR; etc. Vaccines are the best way to protect ourselves and our loved ones from preventable diseases and illnesses. We recommend discussing vaccinations with your healthcare providers, and you can read the CDC's schedule for adult vaccinations here:

The CDC continues to recommend COVID-19 vaccinations for adults.

Additionally, Camp Workroom Social continues to require proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken the morning of the first day of the event, and participants may not attend the event if they are experiencing any symptoms of illness, even if you receive a negative COVID-19 test result.

By attending Camp Workroom Social, you agree to prioritize the health and safety of the community and adhere to our Health and Wellness terms and policies. You can read our full Health and Wellness Policies on Workroom Social's Terms of Service page.

Terms of Service and Refund Policy

Thank you for being a part of our community! Whether you are coming to see us in our Brooklyn studio, working with our fabrics or patterns, or joining us at Camp Workroom Social, we want to ensure that every Workroom Social sewist has the best experience possible. To help with this, please read and understand our Terms of Service and Refund Policy before you register for an event or buy a product from us. When you register for an event or buy a product from us, you agree to our Terms of Service and Refund Policy.

Our Terms of Service and Refund Policy include important information and policies regarding Health and Wellness at our events. Both are updated regularly, so please click through to read them in full.

If you have questions about these terms and policies, please reach out before you register for an event or buy a product. You can email us at hello @ workroomsocial.com or call us at 646-481-1650. We're here and happy to help you!

Travel Insurance

Due to the unique nature of travel events like Camp Workroom Social retreats, we are unable to issue refunds due to delays or changes in travel plans. We strongly encourage all participants to research and consider purchasing a travel insurance plan to cover your Camp Workroom Social expenses. Research and understand how issues relating to COVID-19 and illness are covered or not covered by different agencies and policies. Here are some resources to help get you started with your research.


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