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Straight Stitch Industrial Sewing Machine Course

Learn the basics of using a straight stitch industrial sewing machine.

Have you upgraded from your domestic sewing machine to an industrial sewing machine and need to learn more about how to use it?

If you're sewing all the time and need high quality and speed, then you know it's time for an industrial machine. Most of my sewing classes are for domestic machines but when I'm manufacturing products for clients I use my industrial sewing machines.

This course will focus on the use of the Juki 8700 single needle industrial sewing machine but many of the concepts and processes are applicable to other similar machines. We won't be making a project, but instead will focus on using the machine for different applications.

Why use an industrial sewing machine?
Industrial sewing machines are typically made for commercial manufacturing and designed to deliver speed and performance. You don't need to be working in a factory to enjoy the benefits of industrial machines. Many small studios and even home stitchers use industrial machines when they sew for very long stretches and need to maintain consistently high speed and quality.

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What You'll Learn

The fundamentals of using an industrial straight stitch sewing machine:

  • Terminology
  • Stitch and feed mechanics
  • Threading and needles
  • Tension
  • Different motor options - clutch and servo motors
  • Working with different types of fabrics
  • Basic troubleshooting
  • Introduction to concepts used in production sewing

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.
  • Experience using a domestic sewing machine, particularly comfortable controlling the speed with foot pedal pressure, threading the sewing machine and needle, and winding and loading the bobbin
  • Working knowledge of basic sewing terminology and concepts

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:

  • Straight stitch industrial sewing machine
  • All-purpose cone thread
  • Industrial needles in size 80/12 or 90/14
  • Presser feet:
    • Standard
    • Zipper
    • Rolled hem (optional)
  • Sewing kit:
    • Scissors
    • Snips
    • Seam ripper
    • Fabric markers or chalk
    • Extra sewing machine needles
    • Small, machine screw drivers (Review your machine and manual if you need phillips or flathead)
    • Find links to these common sewing kit items in the shop.

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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6 hours
Two, 3-hour sessions

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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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