Classes Q & A

You can always find the class schedule on our site here: Upcoming Class Schedule.

***DON’T FORGET! You receive a 10% discount on all class supplies purchased at Bolt.

How do I register for a class?

Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis and requires a 50% downpayment to secure your spot. Send your request to register for a class to info@boltfabricboutique.com (we’ll respond promptly to confirm), call 503.287.bolt, or drop by during business hours.

Is My Class One-Day or Multi-Day?

A little clarification on our schedules: if a class has multiple dates listed with an “and” in between that means the class spans all of those days, you don’t choose one of them to come to, you enjoy them all! If multiple dates are listed, and it says “or” in between, you get to chose which one you will attend.

Do I know enough to take the class I am interested in?

Skill levels are listed after each class description. We currently offer mostly beginning classes, because that is what we’ve been hearing from our customers. Please feel free to let us know of class ideas you would be interested in — tell us when you visit, or send an email to info@boltfabricboutique.com. If you’re unsure of which skill level you are, here’s where we’re coming from, and if you still are unsure, talk to us.

Beginning: you’ve learned to thread your machine and make the needle move. You know how to wind and change a bobbin, sort of.
Advanced Beginning: You’ve sewn a little, mostly straight seams, read through a pattern, maybe could use some help with that, or just some more practice with keeping your stitches straight. You’ve finished your pillows and want to tackle a skirt — with elastic.
Moderate: You’re comfortable reading a pattern, have made a number of projects. Want to learn how to keep your zippers neat, make even darts, and successful alterations. You’re venturing into more complicated patterns (e.g., fitted and lined blazers, trousers, no elastic here).
Advanced: You use a pattern just as the starting point, and jump off from there. You want to learn to make patterns, be more precise with your alterations, do more detail work. You tackle challenging patterns with joy.

What do I need to bring to class?

Most of our classes will require the use of a sewing machine. Every student needs to have her own functioning sewing machine that she knows how to make work. If you need help getting to this point, let us know, we’re happy to help prior to your class date.

We have introduced a couple of new hand-sewing classes making stuffed animals; those classes are clearly described, and do not require that you have a sewing machine, so they may be a great option!

You should bring your own scissors to all classes, along with a couple of hand sewing needles and thread, a ruler, and a tape measure. We will provide you with a list of supplies needed for the class approximately 10 days before class starts. Remember, Students receive a 10% discount for class supplies purchased from Bolt!

Other details to keep in mind

All hands-on sewing classes are limited to 6 students.
Students must make a deposit of 50% of the class cost to hold their spot in the class. Full payment is due the first day of class.
If you have to cancel, please do so early on. Deposits are refundable up to 10 days before the class starts. They are not refundable or transferable less than ten days before class starts.
If we have to cancel a class, you will certainly receive a full refund.