The Tote Lab: Make a Custom Bag from Scratch

If you have been waiting for the perfect moment to finally try your hand at a sewing machine, this is it. This is my most popular class for a reason: it’s the ultimate "no-stress" entry point into the world of making. Whether you have never touched a needle or haven't seen a sewing machine since middle school, this workshop is designed to turn "I could never do that" into "I just made this."

We skip the boring lectures and get straight to the making. You don’t need to bring a single thing—I provide the professional-grade machines, the thread, and a curated selection of high-quality fabrics. We start by helping you choose the perfect size for your lifestyle, whether you want a small "essentials" bag, a medium everyday tote, or a massive XL haul-all. From there, we move through the entire process as a group: cutting the fabric together, pinning our pieces, and sewing every seam side-by-side.

The environment is laid-back, supportive, and social. I’ll be right there to guide your hands, troubleshoot your machine, and ensure that your first sewing experience is a win. You’ll leave the studio with more than just a bag; you’ll leave with the confidence that you actually have the skills to create something from scratch.

Class Details

Introduction to Sewing Class

Duration: 90 minutes

Price: $65 per seat

Dates: Saturday, May 23rd @ 3 PM

Skill level: Absolute beginners & up

Ideal for: People new to sewing or looking to restart confidently

This is a comprehensive, start-to-finish workshop. Here is exactly what you will experience and take home:

• Machine Basics: Learn how to confidently operate a sewing machine, including threading and speed control.
• Custom Sizing: Choose your own adventure—we offer patterns for everything from small to extra-large totes.
• Fabric & Layout Mastery: Learn how to properly align and cut your fabric to ensure a sturdy, professional-looking bag.
• Structural Construction: Master the "box corner" technique to give your tote a professional flat bottom that stands up on its own.
• Reinforced Stitching: Learn how to attach durable handles that can actually hold weight.
• All Materials Included: Use of all studio tools, premium thread, and fabric is completely covered in your registration.
• A Finished Project: Walk out of the lab with a high-quality, 1-of-1 tote bag that you built with your own two hands.

The group classes listed below are offered throughout May 2026. Space is limited to ensure personalized instruction—so please reserve early.

Week 1 (May 1–9):

• Tuesday, May 5 @ 6:30 PM: Intro to Sewing / Machine Basics
• Wednesday, May 6 @ 6:30 PM: The Customization Lab
• Saturday, May 9:

• 11:00 AM: The Brunch Stitch: Open Studio
• 1:00 PM: Intro to Sewing / Machine Basics
• 3:00 PM: The Tailoring & Alterations Workshop

Week 2 (May 10–16):

• Tuesday, May 12 @ 6:30 PM: Intro to Sewing / Machine Basics
• Wednesday, May 13 @ 6:30 PM: SPECIAL: The Thrift Flip: Tee to 2-Piece Set
• Saturday, May 16:

• 11:00 AM: The Brunch Stitch: Open Studio
• 1:00 PM: Intro to Sewing / Machine Basics
• 3:00 PM: SPECIAL: The Streetwear Bucket Hat

Week 3 (May 17–23):

• Tuesday, May 19 @ 6:30 PM: Intro to Sewing / Machine Basics
• Wednesday, May 20 @ 6:30 PM: SPECIAL: Hands-on Skirt Making
• Saturday, May 23:

• 11:00 AM: The Brunch Stitch: Open Studio
• 1:00 PM: Intro to Sewing / Machine Basics
• 3:00 PM: SPECIAL: Hands-on Tote Bag Making

Week 4 (May 24–31):

• Tuesday, May 26 @ 6:30 PM: Intro to Sewing / Machine Basics
• Wednesday, May 27 @ 6:30 PM: SPECIAL: Halloween in Summertime: The Cosplay Lab
• Saturday, May 30:

• 11:00 AM: The Brunch Stitch: Open Studio
• 1:00 PM: Intro to Sewing / Machine Basics
• 3:00 PM: SPECIAL: Hands-on Skirt Making

• Thursday, May 7 @ 6:30 PM: The Repair & Mending Workshop
• Thursday, May 14 @ 6:30 PM: The Repair & Mending Workshop
• Thursday, May 21 @ 6:30 PM: The Repair & Mending Workshop
• Thursday, May 28 @ 6:30 PM: The Repair & Mending Workshop

Location & Accessibility

O Street Studios

52 O Street NW, 3rd Floor, Washington, DC 20001

Located in the heart of Washington, DC
Metro: Red Line to NoMa-Gallaudet U or Green Line to Mt Vernon Sq/Convention Center — 10–12 min walk from the station.

Driving: Street parking available on O Street in-front of the studio

Building Access:

• Enter code 1995 at the door
• Go up to the 3rd floor
• Walk straight back, turn right to Suite 301A

Supplies: Machines and fabric are provided, but feel free to bring your own if you have a sewing machine.

Contact Info

For accessibility coordination, private lessons, or general questions:

📧 [email protected]

📅 Book one-on-one sessions or house calls via Calendly: https://calendly.com/sabat

I offer house calls (I’ll bring my sewing machine to you) or can meet you at a local library. Just book a time, and I’ll follow up to confirm what you want to learn and where.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

52 O Street Studios, 52 O Street Northwest, Washington, United States

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.

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