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Common Thread Studio
Categories: Event Planning & Services Cards & Stationery Shopping Arts & Crafts Cards & Stationery Shopping Flowers & Gifts Cards & Stationery Local Services Sewing & Alterations Cards & Stationery, Sewing & Alterations [Edit]
1011A Mission StSouth Pasadena, CA 91030
(626) 799-2265
- Hours:
Tue-Sat 10 am - 6 pm
Sun 12 pm - 5 pm
- Price Range:
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$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street, Private Lot
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
28 reviews for Common Thread Studio
28 reviews in English
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Review from Sarah P.
South Pasadena, CA
1/22/2012
My husband and I both took sewing classes from Jin, and now we both sew all the time! Jin is a very good teacher, and so friendly!
I have tried learning to sew before, to no avail. If you want to learn how to sew, take a class from Jin!
The store is very cute, but most of my experience has been in the studio. -
Review from Guen S.
Covina, CA
12/19/2011
this was my third and final attempt to learn how to sew. in the 80's, i wanted to be be molly ringwald in the movie, Pretty In Pink. that's when the journey started. i was apprehension going to Common Thread Studio, at first, because of the negative experience i had in the past. but the anxiety quickly dispersed once class started.
first off, the studio is located in old town South Pasadena, a quaint shop next to other small boutiques. very cute. i like the small shop feel, and it is very cozy and bright inside. thumbs up!
i took the basic course, which included how to cut fabric, how to thread (bobbin and upper thread), how to do a straight, curved, pivot, topstitch and gathered stitch. Jin, the instructor, was very clear in her instructions. the class is small enough for her to answer questions, and help you out. i like that she teaches by having us "do" it ourselves. she is firm in her guidance, which i like. sometimes chit chatty instructors distracts the others that need focus or attention.there was also a young girl, maybe 10 or 11, that took the class with us (we all ranged in ages) and Jin was very attentive and patient with her.
since then, i've made some potholders and cosmetic bags for Christmas, using the techniques i learned in Jin's class. i definitely want to come back and take some other classes. some stuff is better to be taught in person, like the pattern reading, alterations, and making aprons classes.
i HIGHLY recommend this to anyone.Comment from Jin K. of Common Thread Studio 12/21/2011
Thanks Guen! I remember this class very well and I'm so glad… More » -
Review from Regina N.
South Pasadena, CA
Updated - 8/22/2011
This is my 2nd review of Common Thread...
Every time I walk in there I feel SO welcome. Even the cute white doggie looks happy to see you when you walk into this place. I mainly just go for fabric, which is a bit expensive...but it's worth it for the taste provided. These fabrics are gorgeous, cute, wonderful, etc. I've made bags and pillow cases out of them and they all look SO unique. It really adds a flair to the house thanks to this nice shop down the hill. And lets face it, when we go to a store what are we mainly paying for? The quality of the product and the SERVICE!!!! Keeping those two things in mind, this is DEFINITELY a 5 star fabric shop with lots of other cute items and classes (although I haven't taken any of those here yet).1 Previous Review: Show all »
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5/1/2011
Service: 5 stars
Selection: 3 stars
Atmosphere: 4 stars
I came into this studio curious while walking… Read more »
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Review from Eleanor K.
Beverly Hills, CA
1/24/2012
Very cool place. It is like a sewing machine studio. You can design and make your own things here. I haven't seen a place like this anywhere else. It is great to know if I ever need to sew anything, I have this place to go to. I originally stopped in the place because of the cool made things they have in the front window. When I entered, I was pleasantly surprised by the creative sewing set up. Great idea for a business and for interesting craft parties for kids.
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Review from sabrina l.
Los Angeles, CA
5/16/2011
This place rocks.
It's cool and edgy and a place for learning to boot!
It was actually more kid-friendly than I thought it would be with it's "baby jail"as i like to call it. Inside baby jail were several places a toddler artist could express himself with chalk. There are two cool wooden rocking horses and hip little plastic lounge chairs to sit on.
We came to silkscreen and it was so fun!
It requires no sewing skill.
I love the t-shirt that i made!!!
I was so impressed with this studio that i even purchased a gift certificate for someone's birthday so I could share the joy with them!
I have no idea why anyone would dock stars just for not having more fabric and hand-sewed items for sale. I saw cool glass water bottles for sale which could be for the yoga students a few doors down who wander in. The baby stuff? Any mom can appreciate cool and cute baby stuff. I liked the note-cards and other eclectic mix of items. What if you sewed something cool and wanted to include a thank you note to give to someone for a thank you gift?
But I digress. In a world full of mass produced things, come to Common Thread to get your fill of all things unique and all things creative.
I will definitely come back to take one of the other classes. I love it! -
Review from Kelly C.
Jacksonville, FL
3/11/2011
Came here because of a Groupon deal... and I'm so glad I did. I just took the basic sewing class so we didn't actually make anything, just practiced some stitching techniques on the sewing machine... but it was really good and very fun! Jin is a wonderful teacher with a lot of patience and the class is well structured so you will retain what you learned.
Also, she has a little shop in the front with a bunch of random trinkets and stuff that are so cute!
Hope to be back! Thanks Jin! -
Review from Aurora A.
Los Angeles, CA
3/2/2011
I received a Serger lesson as a Christmas gift. I'd been intimidated for years by my machine, but the lesson was so focused and thorough that by the end of the session I felt adept enough to plow through some skirts later on my own. The instructor took the time to go over everyone's machine with them, and re-thread (the main scary part of dealing with a Serger!) The information I gained is already changing the way I sew. Oh, sweet Differential, you're such a little scamp! I think I love you.
The store itself is clean and well organized. I lust over their small but adorable fabric selection and promise x3 that I will make a dress with that portrait pattern!
Owner is cute and personable. So is the dog who hangs back in the studio. Love love love this place! Serves as inspiration and is not unapproachable. -
Review from Tiffany O.
Monrovia, CA
3/12/2011
I can barely sew a button on and have no sewing skills to speak of, before last week that is. I took the Basic Sewing class at Common Thread Studio last Saturday. I learned so much that now I am confident enough to play around with other sewing projects, I just made a little bag!!!! I fear that after taking the Basic Sewing class, me and my friend Mari are hooked/addicted, we even signed up for the Tote Bag class right after the Basic Sewing class ended.
If you have a slight inclination to take a sewing class, or if you are a beginner like me, take a class at Common Thread you won't regret it. Jin taught the class so clearly and helped each student individually and answered any and all questions that we had.
I can't wait to take more classes at Common Thread, I am already thinking about signing up for the Alterations Class! -
Review from Mef S.
Orange, CA
7/14/2011 1 Check-in Here
Great Intro to Sewing class. I'm excited to take more! Jin is a friendly and fun teacher, and the studio is adorable.
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Review from Heather S.
Echo Park, CA
3/3/2011
I gave my stepdaughter sewing lessons as one of her XMAS presents. We took the beginner class together and LOVED it. The owner, Jin was our instructor and she was fabulous. She has the cutest small dog that hangs out there too - just an added bonus! My daughter and I left the class being able to thread a machine and sew basic stitches - even a fancier one where we bunched the fabric. I have been wanting to learn how to sew for SO long - and am SO glad I finally took the plunge. I will be back for the basic alterations class. PS - the neighborhood is GREAT - plan on having lunch afterwards and walking around.
Thanks Jin! -
Review from Susan L.
Pasadena, CA
7/28/2011
I disagree with a prior reviewer who said Common Thread was too expensive. The studio's prices are comparable to other surrounding studios, and I feel that talented, well-trained fashion design teachers deserve to be compensated for sharing their knowledge.
I prefer Common Thread to other area sewing studios because Gin is a fully trained fashion designer who went to Trade Tech. So, you know you are being taught professional techniques and getting expert info from her.
Also, she has the full range of industrial sewing machines for pros to sew here if you are a start-up/burgeoning designer. -
Review from Robert T.
Monterey Park, CA
3/29/2011
Took my first sewing class at the ripe old age of 43 and really enjoyed it. I'll definitely be back to learn more. Jin is a great teacher, casual but thorough. More like being taught by someone you know, rather than a cranky home-ec teacher.
...and her pooch, Luka, is super cute. -
Review from Rochelle S.
Monrovia, CA
3/4/2011
I've taken just about every class at Common Thread and clamor for more! No matter how much I learn from Jin and her workshop instructors, there is always a new tip or technique still to be mastered. I love the intensely creative items for sale in her shop and the fabrics are fabulous. I have learned to sew and embroider, silkscreen t-shirts for every occasion, hem my favorite jeans, master the beast aka the serger, and feel perfectly confident to tackle any sewing project at home. Oh and my son is in love with her dog. There is even a play area for the little ones in the back so mom can stop in to sew something up quickly or browse the shop, making Common Thread one of the best family friendly stores in the San Gabriel Valley. If you want to learn to sew and more, do it here!
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Review from Ross C.
Temple City, CA
7/29/2010
I walked into Common Thread Studio about an hour or so before the class and was quickly convinced to sign myself up for Jin's basics to sewing class that day. Jin is a really good teacher. She's friendly, patient, and explains everything thoroughly for you to understand. If you have any questions or make any mistakes, she'll help you and also throw in a couple tips for future references. It was a fun, close-knit class of about four people and definitely worth the money. I enjoyed it very much. Her studio is really cute and charming and is worth a visit. I will be going back for more classes!
This is a fun thing to do with a friend. If you sign up for a class with someone, you get a discount off the total price.. a little perk :3 -
Review from Marisela D.
Alhambra, CA
3/5/2011
My friend Tiffany told me about Common Thread on Groupon and that we HAD to buy one so we could learn to sew together as the whole idea of sewing anything is so daunting. Well, this local studio is pretty darn popular because the classes fill up pretty quickly. Jin, the owner, helped us sign up for the Basic Sewing class and she couldn't have taught it more clearly and concisely. She was very down to earth and answered all of our questions honestly and spent time with each student to make sure they understood the functions of the machines as well as the techniques that serve as key foundations for anyone new to sewing.
The studio itself is an airy, roomy, inviting space with a lovely little retail area in the front full of "I must have that" kind of items, including a small stash of gorgeous designer fabrics such as Echino and the like. Jin's super cute little dog patrols the studio to make you feel like you are at home and welcome. All in all, Common Thread is a local treasure leaving you wanting to take another class as soon as you finish your first. In fact, my friend and I signed up for The Tote Bag class at the end of our first class. We are so excited to learn more and get creative! -
Review from Monah Li S.
Los Angeles, CA
1/26/2010
I am a fashion designer, currently without a studio and I needed to fix some of my samples. This place is totally professional with well oiled, maintained and working machines, a big cutting table and a calm, work-inducing atmosphere.
After working for a few crappy fashion companies, I had forgotten how good it feels to sew on a machine that works.
Gin, the owner is a really competent women who is respectfully detached, but available to answer questions when needed.
AND when I asked her about the always pleasant and moody music (obviously, we share the same music taste), she turned me on to http://Pandora.com and that alone would be worth the money I paid to use her machines. My samples came out great and so did the dress I made for the Holiday Party. -
Review from Breanne M.
Los Angeles, CA
3/31/2011
I bought the Groupon for a class here and I'm so glad I did! I took the basic class because my sewing machine has been collecting dust and I barely knew how to use it. Jin was an awesome teacher!! I'm coming back to take the tote or pattern class I think. Can't wait to get some projects going!
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Review from Cristina G.
Los Angeles, CA
3/29/2011
I'll preface by saying that I haven't taken a class - yet. But I got the Groupon deal, which I am grateful for. I think its important that us women get reacquainted with these sort of crafts, like sewing, not because it is expected of us, but because it can save you a lot of money in alterations, can actually be relaxing and fun & creative. I have fond memories of my mother making us totally kick ass halloween costumes, which would be something I would like to do should I have children. But I have a niece & nephew who could benefit from a neat craft project. I'm just totally stoked that there exists a place that will give you a lesson without making you take weeks and week of lessons.
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Review from Hana J.
1/7/2010
I wandered into this store/studio with my gf after the farmer's market one night, and we were pleasantly surprised!
The owner is a friendly, sweet Korean girl who teaches people how to design and use the sewing machines. Though we were only able to peruse the store part, it's full of cute trinkets, witty greeting cards, books, babies clothes, and toys. The clean and chic studio part consists of 8 or so sewing machines and large table areas. She provides silk screening and design (graphic, pattern-making, industry) services too.
On the side, she has a small coffee/tea area, which I don't know if it's for personal or customer use. (It would add an extra touch of perfection if she provided cookies and tea!) She also has a really cute dog, "Nooky,"? who, I believe, perfectly complements the adorable and endearing ambiance of the store.
This would be a perfect place for a small birthday gathering or bridal shower. It reminds me a lot of a color-me-mine, except with needles and thread. If only I already knew how to sew, I would totally come for the "open studio time" and trade ideas with her!
Pricing is pretty steep, but what else could one expect?
I'll definitely bring my other girlfriends for one of the classes in the near future--perhaps to make matching aprons? I'm dreaming already! -
Review from Robert D.
South Pasadena, CA
5/18/2011
Wow, this place is great! They have classes, product for sales, and a Kinko's concept of renting machines and other equipment for the start-up or designer in you. My daughter and I love this place, and have taken the great classes. We love the owners friendly dog providing the home like atmosphere!
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Review from Travel E.
West Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
12/4/2011
awesome store -- good classes, great products and lucca! jin is so helpful and her materials are inspirational. i had never sewed before and after the first class, i was hooked -- bought a sewing machine and have been experimenting with different projects. always went back to her for help with things and she was so great and easy to approach. also, anytime i need a unique gift or card, i go here because she stocks fun stuff.
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Review from May H.
San Francisco, CA
3/13/2011
Stopped into this shop during a street fair - adorable! Cute fabric and product selection (a teeny bit limited), and an open studio space filled with tables and sewing machines. Looking forward to my first class.
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Review from Dani T.
Monterey Park, CA
3/30/2011
I came here because of a Groupon coupon ($25 for a $50 class) and took the beginning class. It was great. Jin was a patient and helpful teacher, especially to those of us who had never touched a sewing machine. She went over all the basics of how to pin cloth together, how to thread the machine, how to do a back-stitch, etc. Looking forward to taking another class here.
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Review from Dirty D.
Pasadena, CA
7/6/2011
the price is to expensive for what its worth and the work that they do
there are way better places ou tthere then this place sorry to expensive -
Review from Kathy T.
Alhambra, CA
3/3/2011
I took the intro to sewing class back in February. It was really fun and I learned a lot considering I've never touched a sewing machine in my life. I want to go back and use the skills I learned in one of their project workshops. Also, when I was there, there was the cutest dog there. Being a dog person, I totally did not mind his presence! I also took this class with a groupon special they were having so I was able to save a lot.
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Review from Andrew M.
Nashville, TN
9/21/2009
Great idea and inspiring place to work and shop. I love the idea of keeping our old tradtions alive and teaching our kids and ourselves to sew and be creative and functional with our hands. The owner is as sweet as packet of gummy bears.
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Review from Tori M.
San Marino, CA
3/2/2011
Fun, eclectic, well-equipped sewing studio. Jin is an enthusiastic, patient and gorgeous teacher who taught a fun project to my Girl Scout troop. Am heading back there with my daughter this Sat. Go and sew!!!
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Review from michelle p.
Los Angeles, CA
3/15/2010
I took the apron class back in February of this year with Jin. Her studio is very spacious and Jin is a true professional with her gift of sewing. I was able to complete my project in a few hours and even got a few advanced sewing tips from Jin as well. I will be back to take more of her classes in the near future!
