Welcome!

Welcome to the Bits of Thread sewing studio, your site for small group sewing classes and private lessons in the District of Columbia.

Sewing lessons in the District are scarce, but Bits of Thread offers a central, metro accessible, and comfortable place for you to learn this wonderful hobby and skill. At my sewing studio in Dupont Circle you can take a small group class, attend a workshop to build new skills, or sign up for one- or two-person private lessons to get help on a specific project or technique. No machine or supplies are needed — just fabric, thread, and a desire to learn. I also offer sewing machine rentals if you don’t have a machine of your own and would like to take one home for a day, week, or month to practice.

The name “Bits of Thread” comes from one of the side-effects of sewing that I have come to love. After a long day of making a new summer dress or teaching a group of teenagers how to use a sewing machine for the first time, I’d come home with little bits of thread still stuck to my shoes, clothes, and even in my hair– little reminders that I was doing something I loved. Whether you come for one class or for many, I hope to share some of my joy for this art form, and maybe get a few bits of thread stuck to you too.

Thanks and happy sewing,

 

 

A few words from  past and current students:

“In just a few lessons, Allison gave me so much practical information in a clear, straight-forward way that made sense and wasn’t overwhelming.  She tailored her teaching to my learning style and the specific project I was working on and provided countless helpful tips.  Most importantly, she gave me the confidence and guidance I needed to carry out my project.” -Gabrielle

“Allison is a wonderful teacher!  She understands that not everyone learns the same way and tailors lessons accordingly.  Her goal seems to be ensuring that her students learn what they need to know, while making things that they want to have.”-Karen

“Not only is Allison extremely personable and talented, but she is a terrific instructor.  Allison explains and demonstrates every step, so that even the most inexperienced sewer can understand and replicate.  After two lessons, I literally went from never sewing a stitch to working on my first piece of clothing.  DC is really lucky to have Allison and Bits of Thread!” -Rachel

“Allison has a real gift for teaching.  Her thoughtful and patient teaching style has made learning to sew a lot of fun.”- Kristin