Sew a Quilted Vest

In this two-day workshop, you will learn to sew the Quilted Wool Vest by Purl Soho.  We will cover all the steps required to construct the vest, and you will leave with a complete or nearly complete garment.  The goal of the weekend is to improve your sewing skills, learn the basic steps of garment construction, and boost your confidence to continue sewing your own wardrobe. We will do our best to get everyone to the finish line with their vests, but we will make sure you have the skills needed to finish it on your own if you don’t complete it over the 2-day workshop.

You will learn new skills, including:

Finding the right pattern size

Basic quilting techniques

Bias binding armholes, edges, and seams

Hand-finishing seams with a slip stitch

Adding a pocket

Following pattern instructions

Proper pinning and marking techniques

If you can sew a potholder, you can sew this vest:

This workshop is suitable for the confident beginner to intermediate sewist. Please know how to thread your sewing machine, wind and insert the bobbin, and sew a straight stitch and a back stitch. You should have sewn at least one project – even a potholder – before signing up.

Why would anyone want to sew their own clothes?

Make clothing that actually fits and is tailored to your body  

Sleeves too short? Pants too long? Shoulders too narrow? You can adjust that!

Make clothing from better materials that last and are better for the environment

It’s so hard to find 100% natural fibers these days!

Make clothing in your unique style 

Retro or modern, you can make quality pieces you’ll treasure forever.

Have fun and be creative 

Working with your hands releases dopamine and feels like a good therapy session.

Learn something new

Challenging yourself to expand your skill set is good for your brain and mood!

Stop buying into fast fashion 

And start saying, “I could make that…”

Workshop Details:

The Purl Soho Quilted Wool Vest pattern is designed for a individuals with a 28”- 46” bust. If you are outside of this size range, please email Lily to discuss sizing options. The pattern is provided. 

You will need to purchase your own fabric and thread  prior to the  workshop. Detailed information on how to measure for your size, fabric recommendations, and how much fabric to purchase will be emailed to you before the class.  If you have a sewing machine, please bring it along with basic sewing tools including fabric scissors (and a walking foot if you have one). If you’re planning on sewing more garments, I also recommend you purchase Wonder Clips.

 If you need to borrow a sewing machine for the workshop, let us know.

Workshop Fee:  $325,  $300 purchased before April 1.

Lunch and snacks are provided. 

Workshop Instructor: Lily Rothrock, Chico, CA