St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church is offering a series of free sewing classes in the fall aimed at teaching skills to those who are nervous about getting started or can’t afford the startup costs.
“We’ve been meeting casually through the summer,” said Valerie Froom, group coordinator. “It’s a great way to learn new skills without feeling pressured or embarrassed.”
The group meets Mondays nights in the church hall at 4235 Departure Bay Rd.
More structured classes start in the fall, but this does not mean more experience is needed.
The first fall class takes place Sept. 12 at 6 p.m. and will focus on basic skills including turning the machine on, threading it and sewing items such as placemats, pillow cases and small book bags.
Sewing machines and fabric are provided, but participants are encouraged to bring their own both to ensure there is enough to go around and to learn the specifics of their machine.
“Sewing circles used to be a common neighbourhood activity back in the day. Women got together for friendship, shared their skills and learned from one another,” said Froom. “We’re more isolated now and I’d like to change that.”
For more information about the fall schedule, or to volunteer sewing expertise as a teacher, please e-mail Froom at vfroom@shaw.ca or come out to any of the September sessions.