February 13-16, 2026 - You Choose Your Focus + a "Pattern Magic" Exercise - near Sebastopol, CA
February 13-16, 2026 - You Choose Your Focus + a "Pattern Magic" Exercise - near Sebastopol, CA
Sometimes a class revolving around a particular topic is what you want. But when your questions and goals don't fit into a tidy category, this is the workshop for you! You choose your focus. I split my time amongst the participants (limited to 8), helping you with exactly what you want to learn and achieve.
Please see below for a list of the types of things students frequently are interested in — with having me fit their mockups at the top of the list.
In addition to the regular You Choose Your Focus format, we’ll explore an exercise from Tomoko Nakamichi’s Pattern Magic 2. On the first day of the workshop, Sarah will supply half-scale patterns along with the directions for “Different facings, different looks” (pgs. 77-79). Attendees are invited to explore this pattern exercise on their own. Later in the workshop, we’ll discuss the pattern development of the designs, as well as applying the concept to an actual garment.
Need a sewing machine? Marguerite has several extras. Contact her about borrowing one for the workshop.
Workshop fee: $1395.00
TO REGISTER, contact Marguerite Longtin, who will be hosting this workshop in her spacious studio.
email: longtin@sonic.net
mobile: 707-484-5239
Please see Cancellation Policy.
This 4-day workshop will be held at Marguerite Longtin’s studio, which is located 15 minutes from downtown Sebastopol, CA. There are many accommodations in the Sebastopol and Santa Rosa area. A work table and chair will be supplied for each student; there will be 2 ironing stations and 3 cutting stations for all to share. We will gather about 9:00 a.m. and finish up around 5:00 or 5:30 p.m. Snacks will be supplied. Lunch is on your own. Feel free to use the fridge, microwave, Nespresso machine, and hot water kettle in the studio.
Quite frequently participants have me fit their mock-ups. Some stick to that, while others choose to have me do their pattern work. Someone else might want help with construction techniques. And you might want a bit of this and a bit of that. It's all up to you...how can I help you?
Here's a list of the types of things I'm frequently asked to help with. But remember, it's all up to you.
fitting garment mock-ups
sizing and fitting you in the Eureka! Pants that Fit
assessing fit and/or construction of finished garments
assisting with pattern work, or doing it for you
demonstrating sewing techniques
developing new styles from a well-fitting pattern
padding a dress form to reflect your body
selecting fabric for a specific garment
selecting a garment or style for a specific fabric
advising on how to structure a garment (interfacing, lining, etc.)
assisting with interesting fabric and/or trim combinations
developing flattering garment styles for your figure
helping you develop and hone your creative process
and just about anything else you want to delve into
You'll get to enjoy the companionship of other creative people, and you'll surely leave inspired and ready to sew with renewed enthusiasm.
Many people like to bring a project that's easy to work on for short bits of time, just in case you're ready for me when I'm working with someone else. I have many years of experience doing workshops like these, and I promise you, everyone will get lots of individual attention!
Please contact me if you'd like to discuss potential projects, or if you have any questions (sarah@sarahveblen.com).