Best sewing classes: Learn how to sew garments, tote bags, quilts, and more

It’s no secret how versatile sewing can be — provided you have the skills and know what you’re doing.

Whether you need to fix something last minute, are curious about revamping old clothing items with funky new stitches, or aim to create a sentiment-packed patchwork quilt, there are tons of sewing classes online available to guide you in the craft.

Online sewing classes are great alternatives to in-person workshops; they’re affordable, easy to follow, project-oriented and can be conveniently enjoyed at your own pace from the comfort of your home.

Here are our picks for the best online sewing classes, from introductory sewing lessons for beginners to dressmaking and tote-bag-making courses for all skill levels!

Affiliate disclosure: Articles on Tiny Workshops may contain affiliate links.

What to know before taking a sewing class

At the end of the day, choosing what kind of sewing class is best for you is all about personal preference and skill level.

However, we have a few pointers you might want to consider as you go through our guide to make sure you make the right pick!

Select a platform that works best for you. For example, are you looking to purchase courses individually or prefer to be on a subscription to enjoy multiple sewing classes?

Or maybe you already have a membership and are looking to switch things up? Consider the pros and cons of what each platform offers to make sure you make the best out of your learning experience.

If you want to learn more about the best learning platforms, check out our comprehensive review of the best online course platforms for creatives.

Besides platforms, consider what kinds of projects you’d like to make and your skillset. For example, are you a complete beginner? Do you have previous experience with simple tote bag sewing or pillowcase projects? Have you ever worked with a sewing machine before?

Knowing where to start and your goal is crucial when selecting the suitable sewing classes for you. And worry not, all of the courses we’ve selected are engaging, fun, and varying durations to match different needs and schedules.

Best sewing classes

Keep reading to discover the best online sewing classes and projects to get crafting today!

Best beginners sewing classes

Sewing 101

Featured on Craftsy, this 101 sewing class taught by Roxy Taghavian runs for a little over an hour and covers the basic skills to get you making simple sewing projects from home.

Apart from going over supplies, fabrics, hand-stitching techniques, and sewing machine basics, Roxy will guide you through the steps to create a maxi skirt. You’ll also learn to apply your newfound skills to household items like pillowcases and cloth napkins.

Read also: Best online knitting classes

This class offers the convenience of being short and straightforward while providing the essentials to get you started in the craft. Do know, however, that you will need access to a sewing machine to complete the class projects.

Although you can purchase this course individually, signing up for a Craftsy membership (monthly or yearly), will definitely give you more bang for your buck — you’ll have open access to all of the platform’s sewing classes and more!

Basic Sewing with a Sewing Machine

Julia Reyes Retana presents this in-depth Domestika course focused on covering the ins and outs of using a sewing machine to complete projects from start to finish.

Besides going over sewing machine fundamentals, Julia will invite you to put your skills to the test with three fun projects: a drawstring bag, a patchwork cushion (with a zipper!), and a tote bag — a great way to get starters excited about the craft.

Read also: Domestika review: Is it worth it?

This class is an excellent option if you’re ready to get over your insecurity around crafting with a sewing machine or feeling like it’s time to explore beyond handheld needles and thread.

A Domestika Plus subscription is ideal for ongoing learners looking for bundle deals and discounts. Nevertheless, purchasing courses individually on Domestika is very affordable — click below to learn more.

Sewing Essentials

During this Craftsy course, your teacher Ashley Hough provides an in-depth overview of sewing machines and the know-how needed to master the tool, from inserting bobbins to treading the device.

You’ll also learn a ton of sewing terminology which will benefit you greatly whenever reading patterns and instructions.

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Ashley will also guide you through making a simple pouch to get you practicing your skills and provide bonus materials for support. This class is a great option if you’re interested in fully grasping the functionalities of your machine before diving into creative projects.

Although you can purchase this course individually, signing up for a Craftsy membership will give you access to a world of sewing classes on the platform — a great way to explore all kinds of approaches to sewing from different teachers and professionals.

Best online sewing classes for garments

Sewing Machine 101: Make Your First Dress

Next up is another Domestika course, presented by lighthearted seamstress and content creator Juliet Uzor. It’s also one of the most comprehensive online sewing classes courses in our guide.

With over five hours of content, this class goes over every single step to have you make a beautiful, custom-made dress with a sewing machine from beginning to end.

Read also: Best Domestika courses in English (plus 5 in Spanish)

You’ll learn how to operate your sewing machine, add final touches to your garment, explore patterns to suit your silhouette, and of course, lots of sewing techniques. And for your class project, you’ll create a button-down midi dress of your own!

Because this course is longer and goes into more detail than most of the classes listed, it will require more learning time. Nevertheless, Domestika lets you keep courses forever once purchased, so you’ll be able to learn at your own pace, completely rush-free!

Wardrobe Basics: Sewing Tunic No. 1

Besides dresses, you can make lots of fantastic wearable items with a few sewing skills under your belt. Case in point: this Creativebug course focuses on tunic making!

Guided by Sonya Philip, you’ll learn how to create all kinds of beautiful, easy-to-make tunics during this class by mastering just a few skills: working through basic patterns, developing necklines, double-fold hems, and patch pockets.

Learn more: What is Creativebug? Is it worth it?

One of the features I most appreciate in this course is its downloadable size chart, ranging from XS to 4XL — a plus for creative needlecrafters who feel passionate about elaborating fun garments for all body types.

In addition, there are other parts to this Creativebug sewing series that cover sewing skills to make pants, dresses, and shirts. To enjoy all of these sewing classes, you can sign up for a subscription or enjoy Creativebug’s free, 60-day trial by clicking here!

Pattern-Making and Sewing of Tailor-Made Skirts

Fashion designer Alicia Cao Guarido stars in this Domestika class and will show you how to design and sew sophisticated tailor-made skirts.

Perfect for upcoming fashion illustrators or designers, this course covers the process of skirt-making from concept to finish. Alicia will teach you how to sketch your idea, choose materials, make patterns, cut, sew, and complete your design.

Read also: Best fashion illustration classes

You’ll be working on a skirt during this time and while a sewing machine is not required, it will speed up the process. Having previous design or illustration skills will also be helpful but not mandatory.

If you’re interested in taking this course alongside other sewing classes on Domestika, signing up for Domestika Plus is a great way to enjoy course bundles and discounts. Click below to find out more!

Best sewing classes for bags, totes, and pouches

Beginner Sewing: Making a Tote Bag

Tote bags are some of the easiest and most fun sewing projects you can learn, and this Udemy class taught by Kimberly Irwin is a great place to get some skills to make it happen!

Because this is a beginner’s course, Kimberly goes over some sewing basics before diving into the class project. Then, you’ll learn everything from sewing machine set-up, bag design, and material prep to safety tips and pocket-making.

Read also: What is Udemy? Is it worth it? A comprehensive guide

Although the class runs a little over three hours, do know that you will learn skills to construct a standard tote bag (impressive, nonetheless!). That said, don’t expect to learn how to sew more elaborate bag features such as adjustable straps or zipper applications. 

Also, keep in mind that while this course is open to all learners, it is more targeted at adults. However, Kimberly has another sewing class on Udemy, especially for teens: Beginner Sewing for Tweens and Teens.  

Sew a Zippered Makeup Bag

As one of the more tutorial-like sewing lessons in our guide, this Creativebug class shows you how to apply easy-to-learn skills to create stunning make-up pouches!

Lesley Ware is the teacher you need if you’ve been looking for a quick project to whip up a gift on a budget. During this class, Lesley will demonstrate the basics of sewing a lined pouch, gussets, and zipper installation.

With these basic skills, you’ll be on your way to creating all kinds of pouches with different fabrics and textures. This course is ideal if you have loads of random fabric pieces lying around your craft station and want to turn them into something both functional and beautiful!

When signing up for this class, you’ll also have access to a complete PDF file that provides a size chart to create larger pouches: a great way to motivate crafting new projects down the line.

Sign up for a Creativebug membership to enjoy this course by clicking below.

Learn to Sew: Simple Bags

Whether you’re looking for sewing machine classes or simply want to tackle a bag-making project right off the bat, this Craftsy course will do the trick.

Presented by Nicole Vasbinder, this class will have you playing with color, pattern, shape, and style and sewing up beautiful, vibrant bags.

You’ll learn how to develop two different bag styles during this time: a foldover tote with customizable pockets and an elegant zippered clutch — something for everyone!

This course is an enticing option for complete beginners who love to play with fun patterns and are looking to explore sewing projects beyond your typical tote bag.

You can sign up for this course by purchasing it individually below or getting on a membership to enjoy all of Craftsy’s fantastic needlecraft content.

Best quilt and patchwork sewing classes

Hand-Sewn Patchwork Digital Class

The Crafter’s Box is a premium platform for crafters that offers digital classes and complete workshops (classes + kits) to make all kinds of beautiful, high-quality projects.

This hand-sewn patchwork class instructed by Amanda Carye will guide you through the world of unique wall-hangings and crib-sized patchwork projects that will meet the highest expectations.

Read also: Best macrame classes

Unlike most of the classes presented, this course focuses on hand-sewn quilt making, inspiring a traditional approach and appreciation for meditative work. You’ll learn techniques for well-prepped quilt creation as well as improvised crafting.

If you’re interested in using the same materials featured in the course, you can purchase the complete workshop or click below to buy the digital class individually. Because this is a more exclusive platform, prices are significantly higher than the other options in our guide.

Sewing Clothes into Quilts

This course features upcycling enthusiast Blair Stocker who will show you how to transform unused clothes into awe-inspiring quilts.

While the class doesn’t dive into complex techniques, Blair does a great job explaining the potential of repurposing materials for creative use.

Your teacher will cover what textiles work best, how to prep fabrics, set up your patches for sewing, and assemble your quilt. This is an extremely engaging class worth taking if this topic interests you!

Know that CreativeLive takes a different approach and presents lessons in a lecture-style manner, and therefore, isn’t as hands-on as the previous online sewing classes for beginners.

If you’re one to go to yard sales or are constantly on the hunt for exciting fabrics to experiment with, you can learn a lot here on how to transform bits and pieces of textile into works of art! 

Introduction to Contemporary Patchwork

Zita Chocarro Iriarte will show you how to approach patchworking through a contemporary lens to create refreshing, modern pieces, whether functional or aesthetic.

During this Domestika course, you’ll learn the differences between traditional patchwork processes and current trends, how to mix fabrics, create mood boards, and embark on collage-making and improvisational projects.

Your teacher will also show you how to prepare materials for optimal results and have you create a patchwork bag as your final project. Note that having experience with a sewing machine is highly recommended to follow along.

Great for fiber artists and needlecrafters, this is an excellent class to take if you’re looking for craftsy inspiration for personal or professional ventures. Click below to know more about the course by viewing the class trailer!

Best sashiko, visible mending, and upcycling classes

Sashiko Workshop

Next up is another The Crafter’s Box special, this time shining a light on the beautiful Japanese art of sashiko.

Unlike the previous The Crafter’s Box course, the only option available at this time is purchasing the complete workshop (class + project kit) — and it’s totally worth it.

Taught by Jessica Marquez, this starter workshop goes over the fundamentals of sashiko stitching techniques with the final goal of creating a large-scale custom pillowcase to make your couch look even better.

Besides the digital class, you’ll receive a kit comprising all kinds of beautiful tools and fabrics, including materials used by sashiko artists around the globe.

Although this option may be pricey for most learners, it does guarantee quality learning and premium resources to put your skills into action.

Sewing Basics: Upcycle A New Garment

This Skillshare class is a great place to learn if you’re leaning toward upcycling trends to put your sewing techniques to the test.

The quick, tutorial-like course features Vida Vazquez and focuses on the bare essentials to get you into the upcycling mindset — just under 30 minutes!

Read also: What is Skillshare? Is it worth it?

You’ll especially appreciate Vida’s strong fashion sense and passion for reducing the damage caused by fast fashion and how she transforms worn-out pieces into eye-catching clothing.

If visible mending, sashiko, and upcycling are something you want to learn more about, this Skillshare class is a great stepping stone to inspire you to start making a difference through your art.

To access this course, sign up for a Skillshare Premium membership or click below to enjoy a free one-month trial and access more sewing classes on the platform!

Sashiko Sewing

Last on our guide is another sashiko course (they are never too many!), taught by Lisa Solomon on Creativebug.

In this class, the mixed media artist will teach you this unique needlecraft style to embellish, mend, or upcycle clothing and decorative pieces with a special touch.

Lisa will share creative ideas and techniques to make sure you stitch with intention and a sense of aesthetic by mastering needle and thread, pattern-making, and basic stitches.

If you’re looking for a more affordable option than The Crafter’s Box sashiko class, Creativebug offers a subscription for only $8 a month. And if that weren’t enough, you can also enjoy a 60-day free trial to test the waters!

Click below to see a class preview and get excited about this sashiko sewing course!

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That’s it for our list of the best sewing classes online! Do you have any more recommendations? Let everyone know in the comments below!