Introduction to Sewing

Introduction to Sewing 1

The Introduction to Sewing course provides an introduction to basic sewing techniques, sewing equipment and operations of a sewing machine and serger. This course helps students become more confident in their sewing and improve sewing skills through in-class work on basic hand stitches, seam finishes and the completion of a simple pair of lounge pants. Students will also learn body measurements, pattern reading and layout, and appropriate fabric selection for a constructed garment. At the end of this class, the student should feel confident enough to continue sewing on projects through the Guided Sewing course and beyond to home sewing.

Objectives

• Identify the parts and correct operations of a basic sewing machine and serger.
• Distinguish different types of fabric and fiber characteristics.
• Take measurements and choose the appropriate fabric to construct a simple garment.
• Read and follow the instruction guide of a commercial pattern.
• Demonstrate basic hand stitches, closures and seam finishes to be more confident in your sewing ability.

Supplies

Sewing machine and basic tools provided for use in class. Project materials TBD (discuss with instructor during the first class). Plaid or striped fabrics are discouraged for this class.

Skill Level: Beginner

Course Instructor

Maren Lyman is an award-winning costume designer and artisan with a BFA in Costume Design from Utah State University and an MFA in Costume Design from San Diego State University.

While at SDSU, Maren taught period costume movement and manners, costume sewing labs, and was an active member of the United States Institute of Theatre and Technology (USITT) and the Costume Society of America.

Her professional experience includes costume work at BYU, The La Jolla Playhouse, San Diego’s Old Globe Theatre, Lamb’s Players, and PCPA Theatrefest. Locally, she has designed for Lyric Rep, USU Theatre, Music Theater West, Sky View High School, Green Canyon High School, Smithfield Youth Theatre, and Serendipity Dance Co.

Favorite designs include Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Guys and Dolls, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Big River, Shear Madness, and Lysistrata.

In her free time, Maren enjoys costume history, reading, sewing, fishing, ballroom and tap dancing, and Disneyland. She is excited to be part of the BTECH family.