How to conduct a sewing class

November 4, 12:14 AMOmaha Sewing ExaminerCalandra Ferguson

Previous Next

Comment Print Email RSS Subscribe

Subscribe

Get alerts when there is a new article from the Omaha Sewing Examiner. Read Examiner.com's terms of use.

Email Address   Include other special offers from Examiner.com Terms of Use

 

Have a passion for sewing and you’ve decide to teach what you love to others? Or maybe you’ve been approached by a community organization, friend, relative or other to give a speech, teach a skill or perform a demonstration.

Whatever the case, you’ve decided to take it on and just don’t know where to begin.

Here are some things to consider:

Make all levels of participants feel welcome-Avoid sewer elitism by making all participants, regardless of their skill level, feel welcome, at ease and as if they belong. The surest way of not attracting attendees or getting returning visits is by making even a single participant feel ill at ease in the group.

Greet participants by name, shake hands, smile when speaking, don’t ignore questions, include everyone in conversation, encourage participants to speak openly, encourage mutual respect amongst everyone, ask non-threatening questions, don’t force group activities, encourage questions from everyone, give value to everyone’s opinions and spend some amount of individual time with everyone in the group.

Make accommodations for varying skill levels-Not everyone participating will be at the same skill level. There are two options:

1. Start with a simple project. One that’s fun and enjoyable to make even for someone at an advance skill level.

2. Offer classes for different skill levels. Participants of like skill levels may feel more comfortable and at ease with others of the same skill level.

Consider the layout of the room- If organizers haven’t designated rooms for classes, you may be forced to work with floor space only. In any case, you’ll need tables and chairs. In addition, the layout and lighting of the room must be conducive to teaching and demonstrating tasks and procedures.

Remain professional-Arrive early and don’t try to set-up at the last minute or after class begins. You waste valuable class time and if participants are paying for the class, you’re not only wasting their time, but money, as well. A sewing or crafting class deserves just as much professionalism as any other endeavor requires. In addition, being professional adds to your credibility.

Carefully consider your class size-To avoid being overwhelmed limit class size. A smaller sized class has greater likelihood of success and teaching the desired skill. 

Set a price reasonable-If the class isn’t free of charge, set a reasonable price; one that’ll attract participants and cover expenses and your fees for time and labor. Consider whether or not participants need to supply any of their own supplies and notions or if they’ll be supplied by the instructor.

Create good learning tools and handouts-Handouts with written instructions combined with diagrams and photos will assist your visual and tactile learners. Creating handouts is a skill that takes time to develop. Don’t overwhelm participants with too much information.

Consider using a Lesson Plan- A lesson plan helps organize thoughts and is a resource for participants which helps the class run smoothly and on target. Be sure to incorporate break and free-time into the plan.

Make the class fun and enjoyable- Ever attended a class where the instructor talked and never shut-up? A class so boring you found it hard to stay awake or became angry because you felt as though you threw good money down the drain. Don’t let your class become that one. Make your class fun, enjoyable, inviting and interactive.

Conducting a sewing or crafting class can be challenging, with some planning you’ll find it’s rewarding and enjoyable for all parties involved.

Photo:  Calandra Ferguson

For more info: 

Wanting to take your inspiring sewing craft genius idea to a wider market? The Omaha Sewing Examiner profiles men and women who're doing it, as well as providing you with handy tools and tips for your business.  Email profileme@sewcraftful.com

Do you have a business topic you’d like to see covered?  Contact omahasewingexaminer@sewcraftful.com

Enjoy this article?  Please click the subscription button above to receive alerts when new articles are posted or tweet this articles for others.