Learn a variety of hand sewing techniques – stitches, seams, hems, and other finishes – to build strong, beautiful cut-and-sew knit clothing.
So many of us live our days wearing stretchy knit clothing. Can you imagine the satisfaction of stitching these garments entirely by hand? With just a few good stitches, you’ll be empowered to make a whole closetful of beautiful, comfortable clothes.

In this in-person, one-day workshop, Louisa Owen Sonstroem will teach students the basic stitches, seams, hems, and other techniques needed to construct clothes from cut-and-sew knit fabrics such as jersey, rib, ponte, terry, and more. Through a series of simple swatches, students will learn and practice the skills to build hand-sewn knit clothes that are attractive, hard-wearing, stretchy, and comfortable. These techniques build clothes that are sturdy enough for workouts, washing machines, and everyday life, but they’re also beautiful enough for special moments.

This is a skill-building class rather than a project-focused class. Students will build personal libraries of technique swatches to inform all of their future hand-sewn knit garment projects, including t-shirts, tank tops, sweatshirts, leggings, sweatpants, underwear, bras, bathing suits, etc. Variations and experimentation will be encouraged. Louisa will display various sample garments and show how class techniques were applied to construct them.

All are welcome in this class. However, some previous garment sewing experience will be helpful.

All basic materials are included and will be provided for class, but students can bring along any preferred special sewing tools such as thimbles.

Date + Time
Saturday, October 4th, 2025, 11am – 4pm

Location
Tatter Textile Library: 505 Carroll Street, #2B, Brooklyn, NY 11215

Cost
$120

Class Materials

All materials are included with class purchase