Sewing Class Levels Demystified

We use a numbered system for our classes that reflects the skills you'll learn and the skills you should already have to succeed in class. Each level shows the specific types of skills that will be taught in that class. Students should feel confident with the skills from any levels below the one they are signing up for.

The lists here are general, and only the skills relevant to the project will be taught in each class. Please see the individual class listings for a specific breakdown of what skills will be covered, and don’t hesitate to reach out to us at classes@boltfabricboutique.com if you are unsure!

  • You’ve never touched a sewing machine before, or haven’t sewn in a long time. Skills covered include:

    • machine basics (how to thread and use a sewing machine)

    • finding the grainline and fabric handling

    • seam allowances

    • basic sewing vocabulary

  • You can thread a machine and sew a (mostly) straight line, but you might need help with skills such as:

    • hemming

    • basic seam finishes

    • following a pattern

    • tubes and casings

    • binding edges

    • zippers

    • automatic buttonholes

  • You’ve made a few projects (eg. boxy tops, pajama pants, simple quilts, totes) and know how to cut out and follow a simple pattern. Skills covered include:

    • gathering

    • burrito method

    • lining, facings, and understitching

    • handling curves

    • topstitching

    • button plackets

  • You are confident making simple projects and are looking for guidance on more advanced skills such as:

    • sleeve (tower) plackets

    • assembling a banded collar, zipper fly, and other steps requiring high precision

    • fitting

    • pattern drafting and alteration

    • working with difficult heavy or slippery fabrics

  • *Could* you fit and sew a satin wedding dress if you really needed to?