Home Ec is up and running!

As you might have already heard, registration for Home Ec opened up this past Monday. We've once again been getting some really positive feedback, and are sooo so happy to be re-releasing it for those who might have missed out the first time around. Remember, registration is ongoing and access for the new class never expires, so if you're not ready right this minute, there's no need to just forget about it. :)

Please visit the new Home Ec website for full information on our Sewing E-Course, HomeEcOnline.com.

Registration is now open.

xo, Courtney, Rachel and Leigh-Ann

Back by popular demand, Home Ec!!

I know I have been ridiculously absent, my thoughts lately are more consumed by babies than sewing, fashion, or blogging (that whole working at a daycare thing...no babies for me, haha). But I have to say, I am so excited for this! Home Ec was without a doubt one of the coolest projects I have ever worked on, and I can't wait for it to reach an even bigger audience. Now without further ado...

Learn to sew at your own pace from the comfort of your own home!

Home Ec is not just for teenagers-- it's for everyone, everywhere!! Leigh-Ann, Rachel and I have created this sewing e-course for beginners and those who want to develop and polish their sewing skills! No sewing skills required-- we'll start right at the beginning (how to turn on and work your sewing machine).

Home Ec Includes:

- 3 Beginning Guides (How to Work your Sewing Machine video, Tools of the Trade, Tips & Troubleshooting video)

- 27 Step-by-Step Projects with at least one new sewing technique in each

- A Tips Post on How to Invent & Adapt Projects of your Own!

- An overall 'Frequently Asked Questions' section plus a FAQ section related to each project

- Unlimited Access (no expiry)

- A learning environment perfect for visual learners, taking it step by step! LOTS of pictures!

This course is different than others we've taught. The projects are each amazing and useful, but the real purpose behind each project lies a new built-in skill learned by practice and application. The value is insane!

This is an e-course hosted in a private blog with NO time limit and all projects are live when you arrive with instructions on how to get started. Please know, this course does not include live teacher support but almost any question you could ask or problem you could run into has been addressed :)

Visit HomeEcOnline.com this Monday for a full course outline with project pictures, teacher bios and registration details. Class cost, $60us

Questions? Please email Hello[at]FreckledNest[.]com

(Note: Most questions will be answered Monday on the special Home Ec website)

HOME EC [part 2 previews!]

Last week Rachel, Leigh-Ann and I announced the details of HOME EC, our Online Sewing Class for Beginners. We shared full details plus previews of the 1st half of our projects... today we're excited to show you the 2nd half with insights into what each project will teach! Visit here for full class details and registration info.

Project Previews - Part 2

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Removable Pillow Case with Piping
Take your pillows to the next level with piping that makes them pop!  You'll learn how to create a removable pillow case and add piping to add depth and create a more finished shape. Introducing: removable cushion case, piping.

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Ruffled Duvet Cover
A duvet can be a quick and affordable way to update the look of your bedroom...and it can be a lot more affordable if you make it yourself! We'll give you a few different options for fabric, dimensions, and construction so you can decide what works best for you. Introducing: buttonholes, fabric care, ruffles.

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Fabric Cubby/Tray
Those square shelving units and fabric cubbies are really popular, but sometimes it's really hard to find cute ones, especially in the right size. We'll show you how to make your own! And, if you don't have a shelving unit, you'll also be able to use the techniques to make neat little fabric trays, perfect for office desk organization or craft show displays. Introducing: constructing a cube, working with heavy interfacing.
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Padded Laptop Case
There's no reason your laptop should be in a boring black sleeve... let's create a case that makes you smile each time you use it (while still being protective)! Sized to your computer, this padded case is built to last, beautify and protect. Introducing: Working with Foam.

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Full Apron
Make an Anthropologie inspired apron sure to flatter any shape.  This simple pattern allows your fabric selection to stand out with a chic bow detail at one shoulder. Give them as gifts this Christmas! Introducing pleated pockets.

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Leather and Canvas Purse
The purse that actually looks like you bought it at a boutique.  Learn how to add rich details to your creations by using leather and hardware like the pros. Introducing sewing with leather, box purse base, sewing with hardware details.

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Mod Table Runner (Double Sided)
Dress up your tea party with a table runner than calls all eyes onto your pretty table display! Similar to quilting, this tablerunner is made by joining materials to create visual interest and seamed in a way that flattens your piece and shows a level of craftsmanship that impresses all your guests! (Note: The above tablerunner fabric is more traditional than mod. You'll see a mod table runner in the class, promise!)
Introducing: Secure Seaming, Straight Lines that Show.

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Drafting a Simple Pattern
One of the fastest ways to learn how clothing is constructed is to tear it apart. If not literally, then visually (we'll cover both options). Using a basic piece of clothing from your closet, we'll recreate it "quick and dirty" style. These make great projects for late at night when the fabric stores and mall are closed and you really want to wear something new the next day! Introducing: what types of clothing are easily drafted, working backwards, simple construction.

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Hanging Shoe Organizer
Shoe organizers are not a new invention but cute ones just might be! These hanging shoe organizers are a stylish way to display and store 12 pairs of shoes (or more) and use vertical space to your advantage. Introducing: Tabs, Rows of Dimensional Pockets and a Secret Tip. 

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Messenger Bag
This grey & yellow corduroy messenger bag feels like the 'safe purse' for girls who don't love handbags (also great for students). Built to last with looks that impress, you'll love carrying your books and belongings in your handmade messenger bag that's sure to make you proud of your new sewing & construction skills! Introducing: Working with directional texture, hardware connectors, adding decorative personality.

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Reading a Commercial Pattern
They're tempting, they're intimidating. You're pretty sure they're written in a different language. Commercial patterns open up a whole new world of clothing (and accessories/craft) construction that would otherwise be impossible for "civilians" (read: not trained fashion & pattern designers) such as us. From selecting a pattern, to learning how to read the "step by step", we hope to give you the confidence and knowledge you need to conquer these wonderful little mysteries. Introducing: determining your size, skill level, understanding fabric & notions, using your pattern "correctly", dealing with the mishaps.

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Flying Geese Quilt
The cherry on top of this crafty class!  Use your new confidence to create a beautiful, large quilt for yourself or a loved one.  Introducing patchwork quilting.

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How to Invent & Adapt Projects
Different from any of our past online classes, in Home Ec, we are allowing you to take the projects we teach in this class and reproduce them for Commercial Use if you choose (but not to reteach). This means that if you own a business, taking Home Ec can expand your range of products and potential! We hope that you will find ways to personalize the projects to make them your own, and in this Tips post, Leigh-Ann will give recommendations for adapting a few of the projects into your own style and brand (also beneficial for gift making!). Even better, learn how to think like an inventor... how to use the skills you've learned in Home Ec to invent and design completely new projects exclusive to YOU!
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If you would like to register for Home Ec Online Sewing Class, please review the full class info & course outline here, along with project previews part 1, value, registration info and testimonials. Class officially begins August 10th.

 

Questions? Please e-mail Leigh-Ann (FreckledNest@gmail.com) with "Home Ec" in the subject line.

I've been reading about everyone's enthusiasm for the class so far, and you all have me in a daze...I can't believe I get to work with such awesome people (teachers and students!) and be a part of something so fun and challenging. Totally can't wait to get started. xoxo

HOME EC [full details and registration!]

Home Ec is not just for teenagers anymore, it's for everyone, everywhere!! Rachel, Leigh-Ann, and I have created this class for beginners and those who want to develop and polish their sewing skills! We've planned 3 Guides, 26 step-by-step Projects with at least 1 new Sewing Technique in each, 3 Live Chats and a tips post on How to Invent & Adapt projects of your own!



This class is different than others we've taught. The projects are each amazing and useful, but the real purpose of each project is so that you can learn a specific sewing skill, one step at a time, practicing and learning along the way. We've also decided to show previews & describe to you EACH project so that you can see what you learn and how much skill you'll obtain by the end of Home Ec. The value is insane!

Today= see previews of the 1st half of our projects
MONDAY= see the photos & descriptions of our 2nd half

*See the end of this post for a Full Project List


EarlyBird Guides



How to Work your Sewing Machine - Video

A video guided tour of your new Sewing Machine... filling & loading your bobbin, threading your machine, adjusting stitch length, needle alignment, using the presser foot and backstitching. Plus a few tips for straight & even stitch lines and my favorite sewing habits!




Tools of the Trade - Post

Fabric and craft stores can be overwhelming, especially when you're just learning how to sew. Did I get everything I needed? Did I get anything I needed? As someone who has spent a great deal of their life both shopping and working in those stores, I've learned nearly every product top to bottom. So, for my first post I'll be covering a range of what you may need and why, as well as share a few helpful shopping tips.



Tips & Troubleshooting - Video

I'll be covering basic problems you may run into using your sewing machine and what to check first before taking it in for a check up. In my video, you'll get a few tips on keeping your machine clean and running smoothly and a basic run down on what to expect to pay for a new machine or tune up. Don't be afraid! Your machine is your friend!


Project Previews - Part 1 of 2



Cloth Napkins (2 Ways)

Set a more beautiful table with handmade cloth napkins! You'll learn how to make two styles with basic techniques that will help you master larger projects later in the class. You can feel good about setting your table in style because cloth napkins reduce waste and help save money! Introducing: squaring up fabric, simple hemming, adding Ric-Rac edging. With a focus on mixing and matching patterns.



Drawstring Gift Pouch

Instead of wrapping a gift with paper, create this pretty drawstring gift pouch that acts as a bonus gift and reusable bag! You'll learn how to create a pouch, Also great for business owners packaging products and making a great impression! Introducing: making a bag, joining 2 fabrics, drawstring casing, square corners, strong slit.



Reusable Grocery/Book Bag

Finally a grocery bag that can fit lots and be carried over the shoulder for one big trip into the house. This bag isn't just beautiful, but is also machine washable and also great for the environment! Introducing: Making a larger bag, straps, strong x joints.



Round Bunting

Learn how to create fabric circles and put together a new take on classic bunting. Ideal for a nursery, shower gift, or a playful display in your studio! Easily customizable and simple enough to finish in an afternoon. Introducing: Creating fabric circles and machine applique



Supplies Roll-Up

The perfect caddy for your supplies, your boyfriend's wrenches, your kid's markers or your sharpie collection! Made with an oilcloth or vinyl exterior and an adjustable strap, this roll-up is durable, flexible and just what everyone needs! Introducing: creating sections, working with thicker material (and needle), installing an adjustable strap



Ironing Board Cover

Replace your dingy old ironing board cover with a shiny new one, and make everyone's least favorite chore a little bit more fun. Introducing: using old cover to create a pattern for the new, edge-finishing options, elasticizing an edge, calculating fabric required.



Curtains (2 Ways)

Curtains can be extremely expensive but not when you make them yourself! Choose grommets or a bunched 'ruffle' top and sew window treatments to suit every room in your home! Introducing: lining up a pattern, double hemming, spacing & installing large grommets.



Quilted Pot Holder

Pot holders are a dying breed... no more cork ones in this house, I want cute fabric ones protecting my pretty table :) Work with batting to create a layer of insulation, and quilting to keep the potholder thin and flat. Introducing: batting, closing in a double sided square, blanket stitch.



Reversible Bib

Bibs don't have to be tacky. Learn to make your own with fabric you have on hand. You'll learn straight line quilting and how to work with double-fold bias tape. Introducing: quilting straight lines, adding bias tape, drafting from a pattern.



Hemming Jeans At Home

We can't all have an industrial "jean machine" in our homes (though I'm definitely hoping I someday will!), but it's still possible to end up with a nice looking hem when you're either pressed for time or pinching pennies. You'll pick up techniques for shortening your favorite denim using both hand and machine sewing. Introducing: determining correct length, working with heavy materials, determining your machine's limits.



Zippered Pencil Case

Gather all your cute pencils and markers because as soon as you finish this project, you're going to want to use it! Sewing a zipper can feel so intimidating but it's actually pretty simple, don't be afraid! Introducing: installing a zipper, lining a pouch



Resizing a Shirt or Dress

Don't throw out your grandma's vintage mumu! With a few basic tricks, you can resize vintage clothing to fit your body type. Introducing: hemming, taking in at the sides, learning your measurements and silhouettes that are most flattering.



Jersey Wrap Skirt (Forgiving Raw-Edge)

This super-basic skirt, which you will draft from your own measurements (using math--gasp!), is both forgiving to your figure and to your skill. Lots of finishing techniques are not only difficult, they're time consuming. By leaving the edges raw, we leave time for more important things, like creating the perfect fit. And looking totally cute in your new skirt because, hey look at that, you're already done making it! Introducing: drafting a pattern from measurements, properties of stretch fabric, getting comfortable with clothing construction.



Plushie Toy

Babies grow out of their adorable clothes so quickly but you can give them new life in the form of their favorite new plushie! Using a provided pattern and easy directions you can make these gender neutral creatures for your favorite little one. Introducing: working with jersey cotton, customizing a pattern.

PLEASE NOTE: Part 2 preview photos & descriptions will be posted here on Monday :]


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This is a 5.5 week online class open to students worldwide, developed and taught by Leigh-Ann Keffer, Rachel Denbow and Courtney Tucker. The private class blog will be up for 1 full year so that you can check back and take the projects at your own pace. There are no project deadlines or grades ;)


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Home Ec starts on August 10
(with Earlybird Guides in Early August)

Class fee is $60us

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Registration

Home Ec Registration is in the TOP RIGHT SIDEBAR OF THIS BLOG (paypal "buy now" button).

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Sign-Up Information

- When you sign-up for Home Ec, you will receive login information to the private blog within 36 hours (plus an invitation to the Student Lounge 1st sent on Tues, July 20).

- Please fill in the Name & Email address box (above) so that we can send your login to the correct address :)

- Class fee is meant for one student and is non-refundable after you've received your private class login.


Connections

- Your teachers are here to help you! We will answer all the questions you leave in the comments of our projects and we look forward to seeing what you make and supporting you along the way.

- We have planned 3 chats where you can type-chat live... getting to know us (and each other), asking questions, and receiving sewing advice. These chats take place in our private blog.

- Home Ec Class includes access to a private social group for Home Ec students only. This is like a 'student lounge' where you can make friends, compare projects, support each other and post photos. (Back in Indie Business, this was a really fun feature!!)


Details

- This class is not a kit. You will receive supply lists in July (use thrifted fabric to massively reduce fabric costs... start collecting vintage pillowcases & few flat sheets, they work great!!).

- A sewing machine is needed for this class. (If you're in the market for new one, LA recommends a "Singer Advance"... well made, nice features, affordable in comparison, easy to use and found at stores like Wal-Mart, Target and Joanne's).

- The class takes place in a private blog exclusive to Home Ec students.

- 3 Guides will be posted in early August before class officially begins (on Aug.10), but they can be viewed at any time throughout the course (if you don't login in ahead of time).

Teachers



Leigh-Ann: Sewing since 1993, Self Taught, Hobby Sew-er.

Rachel: Sewing for 8+ years, Quilter, Seamstress and Innovator.

Courtney: Sewing for 7+ years, Quilter, and Professionally Trained Seamstress.

Full Project List

[ Teacher Legend: Leigh-Ann | Courtney | Rachel | Team ]

EarlyBird Guides

Video: How to Work Your Sewing Machine

Post: Tools of the Trade

Video:Tips & Troubleshooting

Part 1

Cloth Napkins (2 ways)

Gift Pouch

Reusable Grocery/Book Bag

Round Bunting

Supplies Roll-Up

Ironing Board Cover

Curtains

Quilted Pot Holder

C H A T

Reversible Bib

Hemming Jeans

Pencil Case

Resizing a Skirt or Dress

Jersey Wrap Skirt

Plushie Toy

Part 2

Duvet Cover

Cushion/Pillow Case with Piping

Fabric Storage Cubby

Laptop Case

C H A T

Full Apron

Leather & Canvas Purse

Mod Table Runner

Drafting/Creating a Pattern

Shoe Organizer

Messenger Bag

How to Read a Commercial Pattern

Flying Geese Quilt

How to Invent & Adapt Projects

Last C H A T

A Few Quotes from our Sewing Friends...

"Sewing has made me a happy happy girl. I highly
recommend learning how to use your machine - you won't regret it - and
will find yourself spending less and less time at the mall, and more
time online figuring out how to make your own version of some of your
favorite $300 dollar dresses! Plus, having a reason to browse fabric
shops. That's my favorite part." -Jill of Lune

"Sewing sort of fell into my lap about 18 months
ago, and I'm so amazed at all it's brought me: a wonderful group of
new friends, satisfaction in creating something cute & sassy,
and most recently being able to quit my day-job to sew full-time.
Playing with fabric and creating cute gifts is the best!" -Maggie of
Gussy

"I love to sew accessories for
my home, clothes and just general repair. It can be very relaxing and a
great stress reliever.

I sewed most of my childrens clothes, blankets and some
toys when they were young and it was so rewarding; seeing them wear and
play with things I'd made was incredible." -Sharon

Questions

If you have any questions, please e-mail Leigh-Ann (FreckledNest@gmail.com) with "Home Ec" in the subject line.

xoxo, Courtney, Rachel, and Leigh-Ann

tuesday treasury: Home Ec edition

A little bit more 'hand-picked' than usual, because I'm two weeks behind (oops!) and because I'm getting super excited about our upcoming class!!

I've put together a little 'dream vintage sewing kit'* for you...
















and something to keep it all together...


*this is just for fun, obviously! there is no "required supply list" for Home Ec, and even if there were...there are some things I just wouldn't recommend buying vintage or online (such as scissors and thread).