Teen Maker Lab — Summer Sewing Workshops
A studio-based sewing and textile design program for creative teens ages 10–15.
Students will spend the week learning foundational sewing and garment construction skills while designing and creating their own finished projects in a modern studio environment.
Choose from:
- Tote Bag Workshop
- Hoodie Workshop
Each workshop is designed to introduce students to sewing machine operation, textile handling, construction techniques, and project development through guided instruction and hands-on studio work.
Program Details
Schedule
Full Day
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Optional extended studio hours available:
* Early drop-off from 8:00 AM
* Late pickup until 5:00 PM
(additional fee applies)
Enrollment
Maximum 8 students per workshop
Ages
10–15 years
Included
✔ All fabrics and project materials
✔ Sewing patterns
✔ Sewing machine use during studio sessions
✔ Beginner sewing toolkit to keep
✔ Guided instruction and supervised studio access
No prior sewing experience required.
PROGRAM SPECIFICS
Meet the Instructor
Jodie Kachkar is currently a high school teacher and has taught with Edmonton Public Division for 25 years. She has been sewing since she was 12 (an awful polyester A-line skirt) and her sewing projects have only improved from then! She believes that sewing is a skill and while challenging at first, she wants to ensure that no one cries in her sewing lab. Students only get to make the same mistake twice before she steps in and figures it out with them in a hands-on way. She is excited to welcome new students to Fabric and Flow to start their sewing journey!
Week Schedule and Itinerary Overview
Every group is unique, and our plans will be adapted to meet the interests, experience levels, and needs of the students. The schedule below provides a general outline of what participants can expect throughout the week.
Monday: Welcome & Getting Started
9:00–9:30 AM – Welcome, icebreakers, and getting-to-know-you activities
9:30–10:30 AM – Introduction to the sewing machines, safety, and guided sewing exploration
10:30–10:45 AM – Break and free time
10:45–11:00 AM – Project work time
11:00–11:30 AM – Skill Spotlight Session
Jodie will introduce and teach a specific sewing technique, with plenty of time for guided practice.
11:30 AM–12:30 PM – Lunch Break
Students should bring their own lunch and snacks. We'll step away from the sewing machines and enjoy a well-earned break.
12:30–1:45 PM – Project work time
1:45–2:15 PM – Movement & Snack Break
We'll take time to recharge with activities such as stretching, walking, dancing, or spending time outdoors when weather permits.
2:15–3:30 PM – Project work time
3:30–4:30 PM – Flexible Studio Time
Students may continue working on projects, explore creative sewing activities, or take additional free time as needed.
Tuesday–Friday: Building Skills & Creating Projects
9:00–9:15 AM – Welcome and sewing machine exploration
9:15–10:00 AM – Daily overview, project planning, skill review, and student check-ins
10:00–10:15 AM – Break and free time
10:15–11:00 AM – Project work time
11:00–11:30 AM – Skill Spotlight Session
Each day features a focused lesson on a sewing technique or creative skill, followed by hands-on practice.
11:30 AM–12:30 PM – Lunch Break
12:30–1:45 PM – Project work time
1:45–2:15 PM – Movement & Snack Break
Students will have an opportunity to stretch, move, enjoy fresh air, and reset for the afternoon.
2:15–3:30 PM – Project work time
3:30–4:30 PM – Flexible Studio Time
A combination of project completion, creative exploration, and free time tailored to students' needs and energy levels.
Additional Important Information
To help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants, a few forms must be completed before or at the start of the program:
- Workroom Waiver: A signed waiver is required for all participants and will be sent by email prior to the program. Forms may also be completed at drop-off on the first day.
- Emergency Contact Information: An emergency contact form must be completed before participation. This form will be provided by email and can also be completed at drop-off if needed.
- Media Release (Optional): We occasionally take photos during classes to share program highlights and student creations. Participation is completely optional, and a media release form will be provided for families who wish to grant permission.
Lunch & Snacks
Participants are responsible for bringing their own lunch, snacks, and any special dietary items they may need throughout the day.
For convenience, students will have access to:
- A refrigerator for storing lunches and snacks
- A microwave for heating food
- A water cooler for refilling water bottles
We encourage all students to bring a labelled water bottle and enough food and snacks to stay energized throughout the day.