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The pencil skirt is a staple in any wardrobe and after learning how to make one in this class you'll be able to make more fitted just for you!

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What You'll Learn

  • Working with knits
  • How to adjust a pattern to personalize for your measurements, desired fit and look
  • Various wasteband options to further customize and tailor to your style

Prerequisites

This class is for anyone who already knows how to sew, or the confident beginner who knows how to use a sewing machine and basic sewing techniques.

If you're new to sewing or want a refresher to get you ready for this class, check out the Beginner Basics class, the Intro to Sewing Course or the in-depth Beginner Sewing Program.

Tools & Supplies

You will need:

  • Sewing machine with zig zag capabilities
  • Knit fabric - must have at least a 25% stretch
  • Jersey sewing needle
  • Sewing machine - Please review the tools & supplies list carefully for any machine hardware requirements or contact us with any questions.
  • Sewing kit:
    • Pins or clips
    • Pin cushion (if you're using pins)
    • Scissors
    • Snips
    • Seam ripper
    • Fabric markers or chalk
    • Measuring tape
    • Ruler
    • Cutting mat
    • Rotary cutter
    • Extra sewing machine needles
    • Find links to these common sewing kit items in the shop.
  • All-purpose thread
  • Overlock machine / serger (optional)
  • Twin needle for double needle topstitch (optional) - this requires a second spool of thread and spool pin

Fabric requirements will vary based on sizes. I will help guide you on the necessary fabric after registration.

Remember to pre-wash and dry your fabric before class.

Learning Options

Learn from me in a live lesson where I'll personally guide you.


Private Class

Live, instructor-led private sewing class scheduled at a time that is best for you.

Number of Students
See discounted price for multiple students


Online
Live Video Chat
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Public Class

To provide a personalized experience and accommodate busy schedules I primarily teach private sewing classes and this class does not currently have any public dates available, but you can request it as a private sewing class.
See registration details below.

Duration
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2 hours
One, 2-hour session

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Discounts
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Instructor-led Private Classes/Lessons

Discounts are available when you sign-up multiple people for private classes or personalized lessons so get friends or family members together too. Select the number of students above to see the discounted price per person.

Online Sewing Classes

Not sure if online learning is right for you?

Choose from options for live, instructor-led sewing lessons over video chat or some recorded classes that are available to watch on-demand when you want.

Live Instructor-led


I developed a unique virtual learning experience to make it as close as possible to being in person. I make the same project along with you, answer your questions, and show you the actions from multiple cameras as I personally guide you step by step.

Recorded On-demand Video


Some classes are available to enroll in to watch online and learn at your own pace. The techniques and projects shown are similar to the live classes. Follow along from your computer or mobile device when you want and return to pick up where you left off.

Learn more about my online learning options or register below for live, instructor led.

About the Instructor

Vanessa has been teaching children and adults for over 20 years and offers beginner to advanced sewing lessons to students locally and virtually across the country. She's also an instructor in the Fashion Design Program at Austin Community College and is a member of the Fashion Design Advisory Committee. Previously, Vanessa was an instructor at The Stitch Lab where she taught intro and specialty sewing classes, gave private lessons, hosted parties, and ran summer camps.

Vanessa is a full-time designer and seamstress working with clients on a wide variety of custom sewing and product development projects for fashion, wearable tech, decor, accessories and soft goods that keep her current with the latest sewing trends and technologies. She is also a machine service technician and has detailed knowledge of a wide range of sewing machines that enables her to personalize sewing lessons for the types of machines students are using.

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New registrations for instructor-led classes are temporarily closed
Thanks for your interest in taking sewing classes with me! Due to extremely high demand I am currently not available to take on more students. When open spots become available I will re-open registration. If you would like to be notified when registration is available please subscribe to the Ronkita Design newsletter below.


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