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Beginning Machine Sewing
Learn the basics of machine sewing in this beginner-friendly class and make your own reversible tote bag.
program overview
Learn the basics of machine sewing during this four-session class especially for beginners. Everyone will design and sew their own reversible tote bag. Bring your own sewing machine or use one from our studio.
All materials are provided.
Week 1: Learn about the machine – what everything is called and how it works. Then jump right in and practice sewing straight and curved lines.
Week 2: Become more familiar with threading your machine, winding the bobbin, and changing stitches. Learn about interfacing and how to use a pattern. Begin designing your tote bag by choosing fabric for the interior, exterior, and handles.
Week 3: Start cutting and sewing your project. Learn about pinning, seam allowances, pressing seams, and clipping corners.
Week 4: Complete your bag by assembling the parts and adding a row of topstitching. You’ll be proud of all you’ve learned and have the confidence to begin sewing clothes, home decor, quilts, toys, and more.
Testimonials
instructor Overview
Jill Valavanis
Jill Valavanis is the Visual Arts Director at the Sonoma Community Center and a teaching artist working primarily with fiber. She completed her graduate work at California State University, Long Beach where she earned a Master of Fine Arts in Integrated Three-Dimensional Media, utilizing skills developed in working with fiber, metal, and wood. Currently she is exploring free motion machine embroidery and relief printing on fabric.
Website www.jillvalavanis.com
Instagram @jillvalavanis
Membership Has Its Benefits
All Silver Memberships and above receive 10% off the registration cost for any class purchase over $40.
Materials fees are not discounted.
Membership helps support our programs, events, and financial aid programs.
Become a member today and find community, connection, and creativity.
Class FAQ
We ask that you notify us at least 10 days in advance of a class if you need to cancel your registration. You may cancel by phone or email and we will gladly offer you a refund or credit toward a future class. If you cancel with less than 10 days’ notice, we will not be able to provide refunds, due to our contractual obligations and material purchases for each class.
Sometimes, the Sonoma Community Center has to cancel a class due to low enrollment or unforeseen circumstances, such as a natural disaster or health emergency. If this happens and we do not offer a reschedule date, you will be refunded 100% of your registration fee (minus the payment processing and services fee), or credit towards a future class. If we are able to offer a reschedule date but you are unable to make the new date, we will gladly offer credit towards a future class.
All credits must be used within 1 year.
You can view our full class policies and guidelines here.
The Sonoma Community Center is committed to creating an accessible learning environment. If you require any special considerations(medical, physical, learning) please share them with Sean Baskin, Program Associate, by emailing him at [email protected] so that he can forward them to the relevant Program Director and Instructor.
Late additions to any program, class, or workshop that has already begun will be allowed on a per-case basis depending upon the Program Director & instructors approval. Late additions will have to pay the full registration cost of the class, along with any materials fees, and will not be prorated for the time missed. You may reach out to the program directors directly, or the Program Associate Sean Baskin at [email protected] to request a late addition.
We are always looking for new instructors. You can fill out the form directly here.
Wednesdays Weekly · 4 Weeks
September 9 – September 30, 2026
5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Wednesday, September 9, 2026 from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm
Experience Level
BeginningAge(s)
18-overRegistration Cost:
$150
Materials Fee:
$10
Total Registration Cost:
$160
