Our site will be closed on July 4th, 2025

Learn to Use Your Sewing Machine: Tote Bag Class

August 2nd, 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.
$40

Learn to use your sewing machine by making a fun, durable tote bag that is great for carrying heavy groceries! This class is perfect for those who have a machine and want to learn how to thread it, insert the bobbin, adjust the tension, and use the two most common stitches for beginner projects. By making the tote bag, you will gain experience with sewing straight seams, sewing curved seams, finishing seams, and top stitching. 

Since finding fabric is part of the fun of sewing, we are asking students to bring their own supplies. You will need to bring:

  • Your sewing machine and any cords, pedals, etc. 

  • One yard of 100% cotton quilting fabric for the outside of the bag.

  • One yard of 100% cotton quilting fabric for the bag lining.

  • One spool of all-purpose thread that matches your outside fabric.

  • Fabric Scissors that have not been used to cut paper.

  • A sharpened pencil, tailor’s chalk, or disappearing ink for marking fabric.

Register

Laurie Medford

Laurie started sewing for 4-H when she was 10 years old and hasn’t stopped since. She started bringing her own designs to life by learning flat pattering and draping as a costume technician for Luther College’s theater department. Now, her sewing table primarily sees 18th century historical reproduction clothing, household items, and modern clothes made from her own patterns. Laurie taught sewing prior to entering graduate school and taught pottery before becoming the Program and Volunteer Coordinator at Hart Square, where she enjoys working with many other artists and makers. When not sewing or at Hart Square, you’ll probably find her in the garden, at historic sites, or happily covered in clay.

 

Hart Square has a no-refund policy.