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Sew L.A.
Categories: Shopping Arts & Crafts Fabric Stores Education Specialty Schools Art Schools Fabric Stores, Art Schools [Edit]
1637-1/2 Silver Lake Blvd2nd Fl
Los Angeles, CA 90026
Neighborhood: Silver Lake
(323) 665-7097
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 11 am - 6 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
About This Business:
We are purveyors of fine and rare vintage sunglasses and prescription eyewear. Come visit us in the heart of Los Angeles or at our online shop.… read more »
73 reviews for Sew L.A.
Review Highlights
"I took the Machine Intro class with Alicia."
(in 8 reviews)
"We left with a super cute tote bag."
(in 10 reviews)
"I can't wait to take everything."
(in 3 reviews)
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73 reviews in English
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Review from Cas L.
Alhambra, CA
7/20/2011
What a gem! I discovered Sew-LA through Yelp almost 3 years ago at their old location. This place is all about QUALITY. Everyone who works there loves to sew and are incredibly enthusiastic, and supportive of the students' projects, both the ones from classes as well as our own personal sewing endeavors.
I have taken the Machine Intro (a requirement for newbies), Pajamarama (probably my favorite--I've made a number of them for gifts!), the Pleated Tote (using them for gifts as well), Tess Dress, Beginning Alterations, Best Party Dress, Beignet Skirt (another favorite), Essential Summer Dress, Perfect Pants, 1950's Dress (a tough one, but so worth it!). They are all great and the instructors are incredibly thorough and patient (I am not one to hesitate asking for repeat instructions) and fun. The classes are categorized by difficulty and different classes have prerequisites. They are really cute, sassy and cool classes, many of them with a vintage vibe. Each class you learn new techniques that are needed to start doing your own projects. They let you take notes and pictures of the steps so that you can remember how to do it later. Also, you learn a lot of sewing pearls not offered in books, based on their extensive sewing experience.
The fabric is also very cute, vintage-y and fun! And quality fabric. Their sewing tools are also very good--the owner, Shaerie personally picks the goods that she feels is the best to use!
Their selection of patterns is pretty sweet. There are a number of independent pattern companies available here (Sewaholic, Anna Maria Horner, Colette, Decades of Style, etc). Many of the classes are based on these patterns, which is awesome!
Very fun environment, very cool people, a lot of cool projects and classes. Highly recommend! -
Review from Terri W.
Studio City, CA
9/6/2011
I have taken a few classes here intro to sewing machine, cute skirt and beginning alterations.
Let me first start by saying that if it hadn't been for my last class taught by Rebecca I probably would have given Sew LA three stars.
Upon entering for my first sewing class, i came in contact with the owner Sherrie who I guess I find her personality a bit off-putting. I went to look at fabrics for my cute skirt class and I was talking to my best friend and Sherrie says to me "I can tell you are a beginner because you are looking at the wrong fabric." Ew! I'm not sure if she was trying to be funny but I didn't need anyone to make me feel any more nervous about starting something new. In that moment I chalked it up to nerves and brushed it off. Sherrie taught my intro to sewing machine class and for the most part was really pleasant.
For the cute skirt class I do not remember the teachers name. She was okay. I found that in her class when I took the class I had a hard time getting information to sink in. Everyone learns differently, and I thought because the class was such an intimate size that it would be a bit more structured along each students learning style. I would ask the teacher a question and she would ask me to move from my machine or take stuff away from me to show me instead of letting me do it myself. I asked her if she could let me just do it but she said its easier for her to show me and then I could do it afterwards. My bad, I didn't know I was paying all of this money for things that would be easier for you..... So, that was disappointing. There were a few places in the sewing pattern that we were told to do something different but when I asked why I was just told "do it this way because this is the way that we found worked best." This was hard for me to wrap my head around because if I was at home working on a pattern on my own how would I know not to do one thing over the other.
I was ready to not take anymore classes but then I saw that I had met all of the requirements for the beginning alterations class and this is one of the reasons that I started sewing classes. Rebecca is by far the most delightful teacher that I have take!
When I came to the class I had another run in with Sherrie the owner. (Backstory: I was told several times that I should wait to buy a sewing machine. They had suggested Janome and going to one of their suggested stores or their store to buy a good one. I didn't know if I wanted to spend this amount of money not sure if sewing was something that I was going to stick with. Sherrie had explained in the intro to sewing machine class that at a sewing machine store that they would sit down and explain to you how the sewing machine works. cut to the chase. I'm not spending $300 on a sewing machine. I went online and found a refurbished Janome machine for a very good price. I brought my sewing machine to my alterations class because I was told on the phone that I should although the online description I was told that we wouldn't be using the machine in the first class. I hadn't had a chance to sit down and figure it out yet. Once I got to class Sherrie was there and I asked her if someone would be able to show me how to use my machine and I felt like her response was extremely rude. she said "They didn't show you how to use your machine where you purchased it?" and I said "I bought it online." and she says "we don't encourage people to buy machines in the store that's why we say for you to buy it in a store." and I said "well, I didn't want to invest that amount of money and YOU told me in the intro to sewing machine class that someone would be happy to show us how to use our new machines" and she said "yeah someone can show you the basics but if you need more than that you need to sign up for a private class." LAWD!!!!!! it took all of my strength not to go off on her. As you can see I've already spent over $300 at Sew LA taking classes and to be talked to like this was really the last straw for me.
Like I said, luckily, Rebecca was a dream. She was everything for me that the other classes was not. Really about explaining things in an easy to understand way and letting the student do the work in their own time so everything that I learned really stuck and I am so grateful. I may take some other classed with Rebecca one on one. -
Review from Annie N.
Los Angeles, CA
11/26/2011
I hate the idea of going to Michael's or Joann more than almost anything, so I was very happy to see a locally owned sewing shop right in my neighborhood. The only real problem is that they are so limited in terms of space that they don't carry certain basics, like batting. I did pick up some pretty fabric there, and the staff was very sweet, but in the end I had to go to the dreaded chain store anyway to finish my project, which makes me sad.
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Review from Marie G.
Los Angeles, CA
12/11/2011
I went here four times. The owner and staff look at you as you come in like a deer in headlights. No hellos at all, sometimes I feel like I should ask permission to look at their stuff. The owner specifically is very condescending. I've talked with her and she makes you feel like a bug. The store has good fabric but nothing hugely spectacular. Parking is a pain, the street parking is always packed. I bought my own machine and figured out how to use it between books and free instruction from the dealer I bought it from. Go to fabricworm or etsy for your fabric. Sew L.A. could have been nicer to me. I just spent $200 on Echino fabrics. Oh well.
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Review from CraftyGirl M.
Los Angeles, CA
1/26/2012
I won't go back here. Although the fabric was beautiful, the service was not. When I first walked in there was no "Hellos" "I'll bee right with you" so I stood by the register hoping that I would get so direction for the class I had signed up for. Instead I was told to move by someone working there because I was in the way of the of them helping someone else. I was totally shocked. I took the class and felt totally ignored. I don't know how that is possible with a class size of 6 but I did. To top it off, the class was in the evening and throughout the class they are telling you all the things you will need to buy for yourself but have closed the register so I will have to come back another time to buy the things they were"selling" me throughout the class. All I can say is that they lost a good amount of money that night and a customer that more than likely would have become a repeated buyer if they had better attitudes.
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Review from Erin H.
Echo Park, Los Angeles, CA
4/26/2011
Shaerie and the team at Sew LA are incredible teachers - they always emphasize the "why" along with "how." I am so so happy I found this place. I began taking classes almost two years ago and have gone from being able to sort of fix a button to sewing a beautiful wool coat.
If you are at all put off by the class prices (which can seem a little high, especially for the advanced classes), work out the price per hour - it's a steal and worth every penny. I find myself signing up for classes just so I can have a guaranteed 2-3 hours to sew every week, which can be pretty difficult at home.
Not to mention the fabric selection both in store and at http://www.sew-la-fabr... are wonderfully curated. No, these aren't Michael Levine prices, but when you buy from Sew LA you know you're getting quality AND supporting an awesome local business. -
Review from David Y.
West Los Angeles, CA
12/2/2010 2 photos
Sew LA is SEW COOL!
If you are looking for some COOL fabric, definitely come here. The prices are good and the fabric selections is out of this world. Definitely worth a stop if you're in the Silverlake area. There's also a great selection of furniture and book stores in the area. Oh Silverlake, you are so cool.
However we all know that you are burning out and are at the twilight of your years being at the cusp of cool. Now it's all about downtown living and uptown spending or something like that. -
Review from Sara H.
Los Angeles, CA
Updated - 1/28/2011
About a week ago, I took the most basic class Sew LA offers, "Machine Intro 101." I can't recommend it enough!
Sherrie (I hope I'm spelling that right!) taught us -- a small class of about 7 -- and she was awesome. She explained everything clearly, was patient, and energetic.
I'm currently saving up money to take the Cute Skirt class!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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9/12/2010
Oh man! This place is rad!
I came here looking for cool fabric and I found it. Their selection is a… Read more »
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Review from Dre V.
Pasadena, CA
8/9/2010
After an unsuccessful sewing lesson from my mother and her 35+year old Morse sewing machine, I decided to take an actual sewing class. Took the Machine Intro class with Shaerie. What an awesome class! $45 for 2.5 hours. If you're thinking about taking a beginning sewing class that covers the basics of a machine and basic stitches, take this class! My particular class actually went over about 20 minutes, but Shaerie was very patient and made sure that everyone finished their little bag. They have the most awesome fabrics...check out their online store (https://www.sew-la-fab...), but nothing beats actually seeing and touching the fabric in person. You can order it online and pick it up in store to save on shipping.
They sell mostly Janome sewing machines as well. According to Shaerie, if you buy from them, they will make time to show you how to use it, as well as warranty their product.
My only complaint (but not enough to take a star off) would be the lack of parking! I was lucky enough to find parking in the nearby residential area ;) -
Review from Monique J.
Los Angeles, CA
8/6/2010
I took the Machine Intro class today with Alicia. I have had sewing experience in the past, so it was not completely foreign to me, but this class helped me to realize how much I've forgotten by not getting regular practice on a machine. Alicia was very nice, and kept reassuring me that I was doing okay even though I felt sure I was an epic fail and getting on her nerves.
The shop is really cute. If you live close enough to commute either by walking, biking or mass transit, I'd highly recommend it. I drove today, and I think I only got lucky cause it was a Friday morning. Parking was still pretty tight. I will probably take the bus for my next class.
Yes, I do plan on taking more classes. This class was about 2.5 hours but she let those of us that weren't finished continue until we were done with our projects, and she stayed around to help. I got a cute little bag to put my yarn in (I also crochet).
I will do another review when I take my next class. -
Review from Wamuhu W.
Los Angeles, CA
1/28/2011
ahhhh I'M IN LOVE!!!!!
This place is what you wish every local business could and should be.
I took the basic "Machine Intro 101" there and left with so much knowledge and pretty much floating..... this is the way learning should feel like.
The staff is delicious, ambiance soooo cute, small classes and amazing teachers. Already enrolled in another class and I can't wait to buy my sewing machine from them and be well on my way to dress-making heaven :)
Thanks to Sherrie the owner and her staff for having such a gem. I love the east side!!!!! -
Review from Mai M.
Los Angeles, CA
6/9/2011
Great little shop. The fabrics are beautiful, EXPENSIVE but well worth it. You won't find this stuff at Joann's, That's for sure. I took a class at Sew LA and found the teachers to be quite wonderful, patient and altogether AWESOME. I will definitely be coming back again.
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Review from Sarah G.
Los Angeles, CA
7/27/2011
I have taken two classes now (intro to sewing machine; swing bag) and the instruction and instructor - AMAZING. Great customer service, great attitude. I like a place that appreciates their customers and delivers. They deliver - fabric, class instruction and a great atmosphere. I have already signed up for four more classes. It's a fun place to learn. Could not recommend more - try it out.
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Review from Liza D.
Los Angeles, CA
4/6/2011
Love this place!!!! They didn't carry what I needed but they helpedme find it somewhere else ata nother business! Who does that these days!!! Fantastic people!!! Thank You!!
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Review from theo n.
4/7/2008
. . . . HEIDI
Congratuations! You are the finalist for the 2009 Project
Runway. What's your inspiration?"
THEO
(tears run down face)
Well you see HK, her name is Varna, Husqvarna
Viking. I met her at the Introduction to the machine class at
Sew LA. There was an instant bond the minute I touched her
knobs. She whirled and twirled into an orgasm.
HEIDI
Oh, that's so sweet. Is she here today?
THEO
No. She's actually at home, but I'm sure she's watching now.
(into the camera)
HI HONEY, I LOVE YOU!
(turns to Heidi)
and I'm hope she' ready to poke more fabric with me.
HEIDI
So what's next for the new winner of Project Runway?
THEO
Well, since California doesn't recognize human-sewing
machine matrimonies, Miss Viking and I may have to leave the
country to sew our seeds of love.
THE END -
Review from Susan L.
Pasadena, CA
10/18/2011
It is refreshing to have a local, brick and mortar source to shop for interesting and high quality fabrics. As a fashion design student and compulsive sewer, I love that Sew LA's space has good, natural light and a full-length mirror so that you can get an accurate read for the fabric colors against your skin tone when purchasing it. Also, Shaerie is a great person who leads a team armed with wide knowledge and excellent customer service.
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Review from Athena S.
San Diego, CA
2/8/2011
I am a frustrated designer and a "fashionista" by heart. I always try to look for new fabric and designs, so when I saw Sew LA's website, I knew I had to visit them. I was overwhelmed by their wide collection of fabrics and designs; and they even have organized listings of all the fabrics and patterns available. Due to the popularity of some of the materials you may find that they are sold out, but you can order upfront and they will let you know when you can come and collect. It was thrilled to discover that they also offer classes for a newbie, as well as for intermediate and advanced individuals. So, not only am I enrolling with them, but I am a regular customer for life!
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Review from Heather H.
Los Angeles, CA
6/12/2009
This place makes me lose my mind with how wonderful it is. I have been a closet embroiderer since I was a kid, but mostly felt like an old lady. Then my husband found Sew LA (I wanted a sewing machine so I could do dull things like close up pillows easily) and it makes me feel cool. You know that feeling when you walk into a Michael's or a JoAnn's Fabrics? That it's just you there, with all the post-menopausal cat hoarders who are looking to make a terrific styrofoam bead display? This is not how you feel at Sew LA. It is hipster retro sewing heaven.
The fabrics and threads are cool and gorgeous and high quality. The women who work there are all nice and super into sewing and make me feel like I could come in any time for help. My sewing machine is awesome.
I took the intro/refresher course, which was so great I suddenly find myself plotting what other courses they offer, and am plotting to make my own belts for a couple of my dresses. Suddenly, I have been taken over by Project Runway.
In short, they are awesome. Did I say they are awesome? They are awesome. I LOVE YOU SEW LA. -
Review from josh h.
Los Angeles, CA
11/3/2009
My wife bought a Jenome Threadbanger here almost a year ago. Yesterday she was freaking out because she couldn't find the instructions and couldn't figure out how to thread the bobbin -- all right in the middle of an important and time sensitive sewing project.
I convinced her to call the shop. They gave her a copied set of instructions free. Crisis averted.
Sew LA to the rescue! -
Review from Yuko K.
Los Angeles, CA
6/26/2009
I first learned how to sew back when I was in middle school for home-ec class. I caught on pretty quickly, and for our final project, we had to make a tote bag. I finished so quickly that some guy in my class offered me cash if I'd finish his bag for him. I immediately accepted his offer.
Fast forward 10 years.... For Christmas of 2006, my fiance got me a nice sewing machine to use so I could start making fun stuff again, ....and to hem his pants since he's not the tallest guy. Sadly by then, I had forgotten how to use the sewing machine.
So over the past 2 1/2 years poor sewing machine has been collecting dust and cat hair. It had never been touched until we moved last month, and it got me thinking... I should start sewing! I found out about Sew LA through Yelp and quickly signed up for the "Intro to Sewing" class.
I was the first one to arrive to class since I wanted the Sew LA folks to check to see if my machine still worked. It just needed a new needle and for some cat hair to be pulled out.
The class had 1 teacher (sadly, I forgot her name) and 8 students, which was just the perfect ratio. Half of us brought our own machines, and the other half just used the ones at the store. The teacher first gave us an thorough explanation of all the basic parts of a sewing machine. She then taught us how to put the thread in the machine and how to sew! By the end of the class, we all had made a cute little bag to take home with us. The class was 2 1/2 hours long, for $45. It was well worth the money!
The store itself is really cute, with cute fabrics, books, and patterns. It's a little tricky finding the store though... it's on the 2nd floor above a restaurant. -
Review from Patty L.
Burbank, CA
3/27/2009
I grew up scared of sewing and had no interest in it at all until last summer when I bought a sewing machine in order to make stuff for Burning Man. I realized when it took me half an hour just to thread the machine that I needed some schoolin' big time. But I didn't get around to taking any classes until the beginning of this year. Thanks to Sew L.A., in the course of three months, I have become a rabid fan of sewing and have made pajama pants, boxer shorts, tote bags, even a cute little summer dress. I've learned how to do alterations, too!
Shaerie is the sewing teacher I wish I'd had in 7th grade. Her classes are project-based, and the projects are actually very practical (unlike the sad lumpy elephant-shaped pillow I made in in my home ec class). For someone who doesn't absorb techniques in the abstract, this is the best way to learn. Shaerie also has great taste in fabrics and patterns. If you choose to buy your supplies there, you won't have to sift through lots of crap like at Jo-ann's. That place is just sad.
An extra bonus: Sew L.A.'s new location on Silver Lake Boulevard is so cute and cozy. It's a lot bigger than the old place, and the atmosphere is very pleasant. It doesn't feel like being in a classroom. I highly recommend Sew L.A. for anyone who wants to explore their creativity or just learn something new. -
Review from Mimi G.
Los Angeles, CA
7/27/2008 1 photo
I heart Sew LA!
There is a 50's housewife in me that has been itching to get out. (damn women's lib . . . . ) I've been wanting to take sewing classes for awhile, and decided to try Shaerie's place because the graphics on her homepage were so cute.
The classes are taught in workshops or a short series, so you advance as you work on different projects. The first class was an introduction to Sewing Machines, which was a really great primer since I'd never so much as flipped a switch on one before. Shaerie took the time to explain all the ins and outs of basic machine operation, as well as thoroughly going over the basic tools you would need. You walk out with a basic bag after those first 2.5 hours.
I have also taken the tote bag class, which is really fun--it's amazing that me, an amateur, could create such professional looking product with just some fabric and thread. I've also signed up for pajama pants and handsewing, and can't wait to move onto skirts, dresses, curtains and pillow, altering clothes, etc.
Although there are other sewing classes closer to my place and some that are cheaper, I really like the fact that the classes are limited to 4 or 5 students, as you get a lot of individualized attention. I also like how thoroughly Shaerie explains the whys and wherefores of what supplies to get, and the little tricks and shortcuts here and there that you just can't learn from a book or from a teacher who is not as observant. It's nice to support independently owned businesses as well, so I try to buy whatever fabric and notions here that I can.
Sew LA is a fun, open, encouraging atmosphere to learn in and I highly recommend it for anyone who has ever thought about diving into learning to sew. I'm now completely addicted and am sewing like a fiend . . . . -
Review from Aamina g.
Brooklyn, NY
10/28/2008
Sewing machines petrify me. Don't ask me why-- my mother was always dressing me up in homemade atrocities for holidays and grade-school performances as a child. Well, perhaps that explains it.
So when I was given a sewing machine as a birthday gift, I knew I'd need some professional help in harnessing the thing. Sew L.A.'s Machine Intro class was the perfect solution for me: it was concise, very informative, and packed a bang for its buck. I left understanding how and why my machine works, and how to keep it running like a champ.
If you are just considering taking a class here, definitely go for it. It's a great atmosphere for all levels of sewing ability. -
Review from Heidi H.
Los Angeles, CA
8/9/2008
My roommate and I are currently in the middle of taking private lessons with Sew LA, and we are "sew" happy! Shaerie is superpatient, helpful and a great teacher. I'm the type of person where information goes in one ear and out the other, but Shaerie's method of teaching is actually sticking. I've learned so much, gotten over my fear of zippers (they're easy!) and I've gained the confidence to try more projects.
Plus, she's always wearing the cutest skirts! If you've got a chance, drop by. She has way cool fabric and more.
And drop into Edna Hart (in the same building) if you can. She sells really cool local designer-made goodies. Knit baby Converse? Too cute for words. -
Review from Sarah M.
Los Angeles, CA
3/6/2008
I was raised to believe sewing machines were demonic, eating thread and dreams of making your own pillow covers for lunch.
And then I found Sew LA! I've only taken the Intro Machine class so far, but it was great. I learned how to properly thread and care for my machine, measure fabric, do straight and zigzag stitching, and made a simple tote bag. Shaerie also taught us about good sewing tools-- where to invest, and where to save.
The classes are small (3-4 people!) so you get tons of attention and can ask off-the-wall questions without fear. I had so much fun I already signed up for her more advanced machine class, tote class, and pajama pants classes.
The focus seems to be more on clothes here (classes progress to skirts, dresses, and even corsets), but you can also take lessons on making tote and hobo bags... or buy a few private sessions to get professional help on your personal projects.
All in all, I'd say the classes aren't the cheapest I've found, but they are the best and most fun. There's a big difference between sitting in a class with 20 people and in Shaerie's warm studio space with just a couple others students.
Coming from a hot glue gun gal, totally give a class a try!Listed in: Round About the Town
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Review from Siri K.
Los Angeles, CA
3/18/2010
SEW LA IS AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This place is the best. I love everyone who works there, I worship their fabric, I adore their classes. If I were you I would RUN not walk over to this adorable, classy shop ASAP.
I started 9 months ago with machine intro and now I'm making dresses and bags. I can't believe the stuff I can make now. Shaerie (the owner) is sweet, smart, and sassy. She is an incredible sewing teacher, able to explain complex techniques in a straightforward and clear way. Rebecca, Hollye, and Alicia are all terrific teachers too. Everyone who works there (Daniel! Sarah!) loves sharing their expertise with us lucky students.
Seriously, I don't buy shoes anymore because I get the same rush from buying fabric here. It's so gorgeous! -
Review from Brianna R.
Hancock Park, CA
5/26/2008
Let me be honest. I never really wanted to LEARN how to sew but I've always wanted to KNOW how to sew. What's the difference between learning how to sew and knowing how to sew, I've often thought to myself? Many, many hours of work and an equal amount of raggedy-looking projects.
It would be great if someone could just beam all the knowledge and experience needed to make me a proficient seamstress directly into my brain via special laser technology. But alas, the "know-how-to-sew" laser technology has yet to be developed and so I've been forced to do it the old fashioned way.
That is where Sew L.A. comes in. After I made the decision that I was going to have to learn how to sew I found this particular Yelp review page and became convinced that Shaerie was as close to "know-how-to-sew" laser technology as was currently available to the general public.
So I showed up to the class expecting that I was going to leave knowing the basics of sewing but also with the reinforced idea that I did not have the patience needed to learn how to sew adequately. Of course I left knowing the basics of sewing but I also left feeling like I could actually one day KNOW how to sew.
....And I actually made an unraggedy-looking little tote.
That, my friends was the most amazing thing of all.
Take this class. You'll be glad you did. -
Review from Jeni N.
Pacifica, CA
11/14/2008
I've had a sewing machine for years, but mostly just for making my jeans shorter. I decided it was time to learn how to make them look a bit less "home altered" so sought out a sewing class. Sew-LA was getting such great reviews here on Yelp, I decided to take the plunge and signed up for a class.
3 classes later (and a couple months) I'm doing projects on my own, and even planning to sew most of my christmas gifts!
The instructors are fabulous, they really make everything make sense and seem so much simpler than I thought they would be.
There is a reason no one gives sew-la a bad review.. because it's the best!!
(Thanks Shaerie and Alicia) -
Review from Samantha F.
Los Angeles, CA
7/24/2009
I took the Intro to the Machine class this past Wednesday with Hollye. She was a great instructor: very patient and explained all the details one would need to know about the machine and why they're important. The student teacher ratio (8:1) made sure that everyone got help and nobody had to wait too long for it.
I signed up for the tote bag class the next day. I've drunk the sewing Kool-Aid folks. -
Review from Cricket t.
Los Angeles, CA
9/19/2008
SEW L.A. IS THE BEST!!!!!!!!
I have a brand new sewing machine that has been siting in the box for a couple of weeks because I was not sure how to use it. Last night I took the Machine intro class and I can't wait to fire up my new machine this weekend!!!!!! I would suggest this class to anyone who is new to sewing or even before you purchase a machine. I can't wait to sign up for the Boxer shorts or Tote Bag class next with a friend. -
Review from hadashi g.
Culver City, CA
4/1/2011
if you're looking for cheap fabric, this is not the place.
if you're looking for great-quality fabric and friendly, knowledgeable help, this is most definitely the place.
they carry a good variety of fabrics in great designs, including a lot of lovely Japanese fabric. the shop is well-organized, really inviting, and i can't say enough about the friendliness and help. i'm a beginner with sewing, and so i need all the help i can get! they make me feel comfortable with my choices.
i live on the Westside... and yes, the drive out here is worth it.
while i've never taken a class here, they definitely employ fantastic teachers! -
Review from Caroline D.
Los Angeles, CA
7/14/2010
I am currently taking the Tote Bags class and it has re-ignited my love of sewing. I can't stop thinking about fabric now! The instruction in the class was clear and helpful and the space is lovely. The fabric selection is excellent but not overwhelming, so it's a nice way to dip back into fabric shopping before hitting the big time downtown...
I can't wait for my next class! -
Review from Morgan R.
Los Angeles, CA
4/10/2008
I took Shaerie's intro 101 class and I could not have asked for a better experience for my first sewing class! Shaerie takes you step-by-step through all of the tools you will need (and will not need!) for putting together a basic sewing kit and she teaches you exactly what to do with each tool, how it works, why it works a certain way and whether or not to spend a lot of money on the tool.
Shaerie also makes sure that you understand each step in the sewing process and is there to guide you in the right direction when you happen, to, you know, sew your project inside out. ;) Anyone who is interested in sewing should take classes here, as they are small (only four people in the class I took) and very hands-on. The classes are also affordable, so there's really no excuse to take classes elsewhere!
1 star for easy parking and location
2 stars for affordability and learning value
2 stars for shaerie!
= 5 stars!
eta: I should also say that the #1 reason why I chose this place over other sewing classes is because it's a female owned and operated business, which is very important to me. If you're a socially conscious consumer, and you like to know where your money is going when you spend it, you can pretty much guarantee that the money you spend on your classes here is going to fund more classes to help more women empower themselves by learning something creative! It's so important for women to support each other in any way we can, and by choosing to buy things from Sew LA instead of a big box fabric store, you're helping to support womens' businesses! -
Review from Rebecca K.
Los Angeles, CA
4/22/2009
Sewing heaven. I love this place. Shaerie is an excellent teacher and the studio is absolutely adorable. I've taken a few classes there and I continue to be impressed with how much she knows about sewing. Sewing is the kind of thing that is difficult to learn without a good teacher. Trying to follow the instructions on a sewing pattern on your own is really difficult, I've tried. Shaerie not only tells you the how, she tells you the why, which has helped me learn a lot.
Sew LA has moved to 1637 1/2 Silver Lake Blvd. Parking at the new studio is kind of a pain, but it's worth the trouble. The old studio was cute, but too small, and with the larger space they're able to add a few more people to the classes, which is a good thing, otherwise the classes sell out too quickly.
Want to learn to sew? This is the place. -
Review from val p.
Los Angeles, CA
8/30/2009
This place is located right across the street From LaMill and up a small stairway above Domenicos Italian,
They carry kwik sew patterns, ME LIKEY!
I will def be back to take a class. -
Review from Nicole B.
San Francisco, CA
9/18/2009
This place is fabulous, period. For chic and contemporary prints that your Grandma would not wear hit up this sewing shop! TONS of Amy Butler fabric (& patterns), great thread, and tools. It's a small shop with a lot of bold personality in its fun young people prints.
Not sure about the rest of the sewing world but I HATE grandma fabrics and have a hard time finding fun prints that I would want to wear in stores like Michael Lavine and F&S Fabrics.
If you are looking to make a fun Amy Butler bag or simple skirt and like styles of the "Anthropologie" type boutiques look no further than this cute little shop! -
Review from Tamar F.
11/14/2010
I first found Sew L.A. when looking for some fabric for my wedding. We were looking for various prints in different shades of green and Sew L.A. had modern, fun, and un-stuffy designs on their website, so we drove out to Silverlake to visit. We loved the cosiness of the shop and that the fabrics were all of great quality. The staff was also super-friendly and knowledgeable. Although they stock everything on their website, some of the fabric is housed in their warehouse, so you have to order in advance to pick up.
Fast forward 6 months and I get a basic sewing machine for my birthday. Not having a clue how to use said machine and wanting to learn some technique, I decided to enroll in the Machine Intro class. They offer a few of these each month and since I live on the westside, taking a weekend class (Sunday night) was optimal. For people with no machine sewing experience, this class was fabulous. Mine was taught by Shaerie, who owns the store, and she was really enthusiastic. In the machine intro, you learn how to work your machine, thread a needle/bobbin, what the various stitches and seam allowances mean, and you make a little bag. You don't need a machine for the class; the class machines are Husqvarna Vikings and then the store sells Janome machines, so staff are really familiar with both of these brands, but I came in with a dinky little Brother machine and left the class knowing how to do each thing specifically on my machine.
After taking the Intro class, you could probably muscle your way through an easy pattern or two. I did this, and then signed up for the Pajamarama class. This one was taught by Hollye who was also really wonderful. It met over 3 weeks (again I opted for the Sunday class) and you learn how to read and cut a pattern, use the button hole stitch, assemble a garment, sew a hem, and some other neat-o stuff. The pajama pants came out really well, but the technique is what you really take the class for (otherwise those are some really expensive jammies!)
They carry many Japanese (Echino, Kokka) fabrics, and other cotton/home dec/corduroy, etc. fabrics. There are definitely more prints than solids, and the prints are not what you'll find at Jo-Ann - in a good way. They also carry a lot of Kwik-Sew patterns, and some other brands (Colette, Amy Butler, Sew Liberated), good thread, and basic notions like needles, bias tape, measuring implements, and cutting tools. Everything is of high quality, so the only downside is that you can't really get any cheap-o fabric for practicing when you're a novice. The prices on notions are the same as Jo-Ann or any other fabric store - the only way they don't compete is that places like Jo-Ann often have sales (like buy-1-get-1 or 40% off) so a pattern or shears may be cheaper. But... um... support small businesses!
I'd highly recommend Sew LA for classes and for fabric & notions when you're looking for quality over cookie-cutter/quantity. -
Review from Sandra V.
Los Angeles, CA
4/12/2008
Along with everyone else, I have to rave about what great classes these are. I have been fumbling around on my sewing machine for many years trying to teach myself to sew, with very little success. Just as Shaerie's website states, I'm a visual learner, and needed someone to guide me through the process of learning to properly use my machine. I have taken the Machine Intro and Pajama Pants class, both of which were informative and a ton of fun (I'm wearing my pajama pants as I type this). The classes are small, friendly, and totally addicting. I can't wait to take everything!
I also love that you can buy quality sewing supplies right there in class, or drop by and shop from an expert.
Thanks Shaerie and Alicia, you're both great instructors! -
Review from Jenny M.
El Segundo, CA
8/15/2010
this place is beyond cute!
i had to drive a little (okay, completely) out of my way to get here, but it was worth it. After all the research I did to find a good basics class, Sew LA was by far the best bang for your buck. Not only was it among the cheapest, but how can you beat the cozy atmosphere and the cuteness of the shop? I fell in love! I took the Machine Intro class with Alicia. She was very helpful and friendly, and so were my classmates! :) While the shop is quaint, it's got a great selection of really cool fabrics.
The only minor complaint I have is that there is no parking, but residential parking was easy enough for me to find on a Sunday morning. It certainly wasn't enough of a bother to deduct any stars from my rating.
I can't wait to go back to learn more new things! -
Review from Liz P.
Los Angeles, CA
7/31/2011
Awesome place! So much better than having to go somewhere like Michael's or Jo-Ann's. The ladies working there know what they're talking about and are super nice and extremely helpful. The fabric selection is wonderful. It's actually fabric I want to make clothing out of and not just cheapy crafting fabric. Big thumbs up.
