Cochenille will be vending and Susan will be teaching at the Sewing and Stitchery Expo in late Feb/ early March.  Registration begins on January 12, 2026.

Change and Effect: Working with Patterns
Thursday, February 26, 2026.  10:00AM-10:45AM.  Showplex B Puyallup, WA

This class will explore how changes to a pattern for fit or fashion result in a domino effect that leads to changes in other parts of the pattern. There are relationships between armholes and sleeves, necklines and facings or collars, and length and proportions of details.
Changing fabrication is also a consideration which can result in a pattern adjustment.
Consider Armhole/Sleeves, Necklines/Facings and Collars, etc.

Fit Preferences: Understanding How You Like Your Clothing to Fit
Saturday, February 28, 202612:00PM-12:45PM.  Showplex B Puyallup, WA

Learn techniques and measurements that will help you to understand how you like your clothing to fit. There is magic to the knowledge in that it will guide you to creating clothing (sewn/knit/otherwise) that you are comfortable in. No more surprises. The goal is ‘no more muslins’ and happy projects.
Take home a mini worksheet to complete and use in future projects.

Creative Sewing Techniques Gleaned from Store Windows and Fashion Ready-to-Wear
Friday, February 27, 2026.    3:30PM-5:00PM.  Showplex E Puyallup, WA

There is lots to be learned from paying attention to how designer and ready-to-wear garments utilize quick and creative sewing techniques. These enhance your garments and increase the ‘value’ of your sewn clothing. Susan will walk you through a variety of techniques, many in a step-by-step visual manner. Let’s explore neckline treatments, quick finish techniques, fun pockets, and some creative play as well.

2025-Stretch Factors for Knits

Saturday, February 28, 2026         3:00PM-4:30PM.  Showplex B Puyallup, WA

This lecture class will explore a discussion of knit fabric types and how the built-in stretch of the fabric impacts your pattern choice and fit. Learn how to choose a knit wisely for its specific end-use and how to make changes to your pattern when you are using a knit with a different built-in stretch. Also learn how to counter misjudgments where you find out your knit doesn’t work for the style. Sewing Techniques will also be covered.

3030-Pattern Alterations for Fitting Challenges

Thursday, February 26, 2026        1:00PM-3:30PM                  Showplex F Puyallup, WA

With an ever-changing body, it is important to understand the pattern adjustments and how to deal with them. The sequence involves figure/fit analysis, pattern adjustment, and test fit. Working with 1/4-scale basic patterns, students will learn how to adjust them for a variety of fit challenges which include forward shoulders, rounded back, full upper arm, large tummy, asymmetrical bodies, and so on. Even if you don’t have a specific challenge (now)… there is value learned in how to analyze and adjust. You will slash, spread, tape, and document. A variety of techniques will be covered.

2026-Designing Your Own Textile Prints

Sunday, March 1, 2026.     10:00AM-11:30AM.   Showplex E Puyallup, WA

Have you ever wanted to learn how to create your own motifs and patterns and get them printed on fabric? This lecture will provide an overview of the process. It will cover the software necessary, explore the process of using design software and online tools, and then show you the process of uploading your prints to Spoonflower or other online fabric print companies. Susan will also demonstrate how to create engineered designs where the print fills the entire garment pattern in your own specific way.

FREE-Why You Should Consider Pattern Making Software

Friday, February 27, 2026.        1:30PM-2:15PM.  Free Stage

Is it time to take the leap? In this informative talk, learn how a pattern making program can provide you with a tool for fit and/or creativity. How does it work? How do you print the pattern? Can it work with your existing pattern collection? Are you able to create patterns for multiple sizes and people? These and other questions will be answered.

Download a flyer to see what classes are being taught by clicking here.

Susan is teaching a variety of classes including the following: