Hi there,

New to sewing? Start here. This three-week course is designed for complete beginners — no experience, no fear required. We'll build your skills from the ground up, one intentional step at a time, and by the end you'll have a professional tote bag you made with your own hands.

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Please read through all of the information below.  Once you register, I will reach out to set up a one to one call to review all of the details/supplies and answer any questions you might have before we begin. 

What You'll Learn:

Week 1: Foundations
We start slow and steady. You'll get familiar with your machine — its parts, how it works, and how to troubleshoot the basics. From there, we'll practice essential stitches and techniques, and you'll create your own set of reference samples to keep and return to long after class ends.

Week 2: Pattern Drafting
Now we start designing. You'll learn to draft your own tote bag pattern from scratch, understanding the why behind every measurement and line — not just tracing someone else's template. This is where sewing starts to feel like your own.

Week 3: Assembly & Construction
Time to bring it all together. You'll learn to work confidently with heavier fabrics, construct handles strong enough for everyday use, and master the structural sewing techniques that separate a homemade bag from a well-made one. You'll leave with a finished, professional-quality tote — and the skills to make another.

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Class Details:

Dates: October 3, 10, 17 - 2026

Location - Virtually

Time - 10am - 12 noon EST

No experience necessary - Perfect for complete beginners.  This course is appropriate for ages 17 through adult.

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Investment in Your Creative Journey:

This course is offered on a pay-what-you-can basis because I believe everyone deserves access to creative skills and self-expression through sewing. I trust you to contribute what feels right for your financial situation.

Suggested contribution ranges:

• $150-200 - Full course value (helps sustain and grow Sew With Monifa)

• $75-149 - Supported rate (covers basic course costs)

• $25-74 - Community rate (accessible entry point)

• Less than $25 - If this is what works for you right now, you're still welcome here

No one will be turned away due to inability to pay. Your participation and enthusiasm are what matter most.

Payment: Please send your contribution via Venmo to @MAKincaid and include your full name in the payment note. 

Questions about payment? Email me at Monifamakes@gmail.com - we'll work it out together.

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Essential Equipment:

• Sewing machine in good working order (with foot pedal and power cord).  I will be using:  SINGER Heavy Duty 4423 High Speed Sewing Machine. If you decide to purchase a different machine, be sure that you have the manual that is meant for that particular machine.

• Machine needles: Universal size 80/12 and 90/14

• Seam ripper

• Fabric scissors (8" dedicated fabric shears - emphasize NOT for paper)

• Paper scissors (for cutting patterns)

• Long roll of paper for pattern drafting.  (you can also tape sheets of printer paper together, craft paper, butcher paper, back of gift wrapping paper)

• Pins (ball-head or glass-head recommended)

• Pincushion or magnetic pin holder

• Measuring tape (60" flexible)

• Clear ruler (17 or 18")

• Fabric marking tools (chalk pencil, water-soluble marker, or tailor's chalk)

• Iron and ironing board

• Press cloth (or clean cotton dish towel)

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Thread & Bobbins

• All-purpose polyester thread in neutral colors: white, black, and gray (these work for most projects).  I personally use Gutterman thread

• Extra bobbins compatible with your machine (at least 6-8 total)

• Ready to get started? Click the register button!