0/5. Our kids were made to feel incompetent during their first experience with sewing. They were consistently told how they were doing things wrong and one was told "I can't even give you a grade it's so bad" and that their stitching was "ugly." They were also asked to walk on the instructors back for massage. The last straw for us was when our child got sick and asked for her to call us and she did not. Our kids refused to go back and we are losing money for the two days of camp they will not attend. read more

A truly spectacular place for learning to sew. My daughter has attended a few of the summer camps and plans to continue with regular classes. Alex is a wonderful teacher and seems to know exactly when to let the children work independently vs when they need her help. It is very impressive seeing the children working on different projects with laser focus because she allows them to choose projects they are interested in. It is a wonderful environment for growing creativity. Highly recommend! read more

I was excited to see Camp Couture is still around. My daughter and I were talking about it the other day. 11+ years later she still remembers it as a great experience. She's been sewing and modifying clothes she buys ever since. I hope others enjoy it as much as she did! read more

This sewing class for kids and teens is a treasure found. Alexandria the owner takes special time for each student to make sure they understand how to learn the basics steps from machine, as well as hand sewing. My daughter loves this camp of classes to learn unique and creative new fun ideas and keepsakes that she makes. She loves mixing with the other students and looks so forward to meeting with everyone each time. I have also taken adult classes to learn to sew and upgrade my skills. As a runner up on Project Runway of Season 12 Alexandria went on to compete in the All Stars Season 4. read more

First off, I'd like to say that my daughter really liked the instruction and made a few nice things that she was really proud of. What bothered me was that even though the owner sells masks, she was never actually wearing one. She had one "on" but it was so big that it constantly was slipping down and was almost never on her face. I wanted to say, "maybe you should find someone who's good as sewing to help you with that." Secondly, my daughter asked me, "is it true that mommy will be the most important to me now and when I get older, daddy will?" We were taken aback and when we asked her where she got that idea, she said from camp. Before that, she asked, "what does it mean when your boyfriend is a cat?" My 8 year old doesn't really understand what a boyfriend is, and frankly, that's just sad and not really something you should be telling children about. Maybe see a therapist about your relationship issues and stick with sewing topics at work. So, while I would like to send my daughter back, we won't because of the weird conversations she had with the owner. We don't want her to grow up thinking that men and women have different levels of importance, and that cats make wonderful pets, but are horrible to date. read more

It's the best my daughter learned how to sew everything and is the best sewer in her intire school

I had a wonderful experience at Camp Couture . Alexandria is professional, helpful, knowledgeable, kind and a generous teacher. I left knowing how to operate myc machine I took a Daddy and Me class with my daughter and son and we has the best time . We are definitely coming back to make our Halloween costumes this fall . I highly recommend Camp Couture. read more

Our ten-year-old loved Camp Couture summer camp. Mary gained so many skills and confidence over just one week. Alexandria is both a word-class designer and caring educator. Alexandria striked the right balance of instilling professional high standards along with cultivating the techniques and growth mindset to get there. We'll definitely go back. read more

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Alex is quite easily one of the best teachers in the game and is a fountain of sewing knowledge. Every time I see her, I end up taking on way more than I possibly thought I could accomplish in an appointment, and sewing up something using techniques I thought I was months away from learning. Beyond this, she's a pleasure to be around - she's very smart, entertaining, and kind. She is a bonafide master tailor who takes her craft (but not herself) very seriously. If you are serious about learning how to sew, you can find no better in the Bay Area and possibly California - it's surprising that someone of her talent level actually teaches because she could very easily be in professional patternmaking, designing, tailoring, or styling for a major brand and not have the time. I can't say enough positive things; be smart and get lessons while she's still teaching! read more

Alex is a great instructor. My daughter took classes here 2-3 days a week for a few years. Alex helped my daughter make holiday dresses and her sister's first communion dress. Not only was Alex my daughter's sewing instructor, but was a friend. We celebrated my daughter's birthday party at Camp Couture with 7 girls. They all had a blast. My daughter really enjoyed her time at Camp Couture and being mentored by Alex. I am hoping she will get back into sewing. read more

My two kids (9 year old daughter, 7 year old son) both had an amazing time at their week at Camp Couture! The first day, they came home and instantly said it was the best camp they'd been to and have to come back (and they have been to many camps!). Before, my son had only limited experience hand sewing, but learned to sew several stitches by hand and even proficiently use a sewing machine. My daughter can now independently sew complex projects on a sewing machine. They made so many, very cool projects during the week. I was blown away each day. They each made a stylish, lined hoodie and a stuffie all in just one day. Other projects included a quilt (made from my son's favorite outgrown T-shirts), a cool backpack and bag that I could totally see in a high-end store, and animal-shaped pin cushions. Each week, they have different projects to mix it up. I was impressed with how great of a teacher Alexandria was. She was patient, encouraging, and knew how to challenge and meet each student where they were. They learned so much in just one week. You can tell she puts a lot of care into the projects she designs for each kid and the individualized prep she needs to do each night for each one's level, interest, and choice of project. We're so lucky we found this camp and will definitely be returning! read more

I do not recommend this camp for young children. It is a cramped, hot, unventilated space unfit for as many people were in attendance (17). There was one teacher so there was not a lot of instruction for a full day of camp. They advertise 25 hours of instruction and that is absolutely wrong. The teacher showed a shocking photo of a hand with a needle through it to prove a point that they needed to be safe. This was traumatic to young children. The children were flushed from heat when we picked them up and upset at the way they were treated throughout the day. The camp specifies that they will be outside for lunch, snacks and play. There was no play and they were indoors in the cramped space waiting for help most of the time. This may be fine for older children who are self sufficient but I would never ever recommend for young children. read more

Alex's sewing classes deal with the fundamentals of sewing. While at the same time, push you to learn and think outside the box in being creative. She is a great sewing teacher, who gives great guidance and feedback on how to improve basic sewing techniques. Her passion for what she does shines through and it is very contagious. Sewing is a lost art these days. I'm glad she's keeping creative sewing alive through her ongoing classes- for both kids and adults in all different levels. Thanks Alex! read more

I took a class from Alexandria Von Bromssen and I realized how little I really knew about sewing. She taught me how to size a pattern, make my own pattern, work with with different materials, and learn how to use a serger (revolutionized my life). She even signed up to teach me how to sew a faux fur coat which is *not* and easy endeavor. Alex is a great teacher. She cared about my creative fashion vision and helped me make it happen. I lucked out finding someone who is a fashion expert, does shows, and has a masters in fashion design. She also is great with her kids in the summer camp. read more

I sent my daughter to camp here last year during one of her school breaks. Its hard to find a camp during the fall break. My expectations weren't high, I was just happy to have a place for her to be safe and creative. Cut to this fall, when my child made her own halloween costume from scratch. My participation was driving to & from the fabric and craft stores. What was to me a small, safe, local, child care option, was inspiration, confidence, and skill for my daughter. We will go back, and I'll definitely get the other daughter enrolled as well. Alex and Camp Couture are a fantastic hidden gem. read more

I had been looking for a sewing class in San Mateo for some time, and came upon a few sewing classes. For some reason this place sounded like it would be youthful and fun - and it is! I attend the Adult class during the evenings and I love it! The designer who teaches the class is extremely helpful, talented, and allows me to finish my project without looking at the clock. It's a very friendly environment and would recommend it to anyone who loves fashion. read more

My daughter spent two weeks at camp couture to jump start a Tokyo multi-media Film and Fashion show she is doing for her 8th Grade Spring project. [She is a third year student in Japanese and has also travelled to Japan to film and visit Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto this summer]. Alexandria was the perfect couture mentor with advanced fashion training and a deep understanding of European and Japanese design trends. Alexandria has a Master's Degree in Fashion Design & pattern making. She also has several highly skilled mentors to help the students in camp couture. This program teaches to all levels. My daughter had loads of fun and it was highly productive. Alexandria's Black Line of custom couture designs are edgy, high fashion that go beyond the best designs in Union square. It is amazing that San Mateo would have a resource like this for fashion! Women can skip Union Square and come to Palm Drive in San Mateo for something to wear to the SF Symphony opening night that will be unique and beautiful. Custom pieces take longer lead times, of course. But they are worth it. Check out some custom designs at: www.vonbromssen.com Alexandria has received the following awards: Voted Best SF Designer 2009 Best fashion show 2009 Best Creative Director 2010 Alexandra donated some french fabrics for one project and knows where to buy materials in SF and LA. My daughter was jazzed! My daughter went from some quilting experience to having two finished couture designs and a third one well under way in just two weeks. She is a math science girl, but her Spring project was jump-started in the busy shop on Palm Drive. We plan future weeks at camp couture! There were groups of mostly girls (and some boys) making all kinds of clothes. Even Elementary school kids were doing successful projects. I did not see any disappointed faces. Kids love this place! I highly recommend it for all ages! read more

I feel so lucky to have found such a wonderful place as Camp Couture for my daughter. We have enrolled in the various Kid Camps throughout the year, and each time my daughter has an amazing time. More than a sewing school, Alex really channels your child's creativity. Although safety and responsibility with the machine are of the utmost importance, the structure of the class is loose enough that kids can really delve into their own projects that THEY want to start. Everything from purses, Halloween costumes, skirts, shirts, dog clothes...you name it, they can make it!! Alex really encourages the kids with her great skill and sense of humor. The courses use reclaimed and used fabrics which teach kids the importance of recycling. And the camp participates in Maker Faire every year which give the kids the opportunity to show off their creations in a real fashion show!! My daughter has become more creative and confident through this camp and I can't recommend it enough. If you're child wants to learn more about sewing, design, or fashion...you must come and learn from Alex. She is amazing!!! read more

I had a sad experience with "The Camp Couture". First, she did not email, text or called when the class time had changed. I had to wait for two hours. NO respect for other people's time. Second, My machine wasn't sewing quite right and then Alex played with it and told me how the brand "Singer " was a bad brand. She simply played with the thread and then said she wasn't a technician that it needs to be fixed, she simply could not get it to work etc. I left shortly after I went to the singer store to get my machine fix and Yes! to my surprise there was nothing wrong with my machine it just needed to be threaded right. I also have to mention that the storefront is in serious need of decluttering there is hardly any room to do your projects or move. I highly recommend you get a cleaning crew. It is not placed to be holding any kind of classes. I do not recommend this place at all the owner Alex seems overwhelmed and not interested. Save your time and energy​. Rosa R. read more

My daughter is 7 years old and loves to sew. She had been making little doll dresses from cloth and pins, and trying to teach herself to sew, so we were very happy to find Camp Couture. She went to two weeks of summer camp, and is now in the costuming workshop for Halloween. She has a great time there and has really learned a lot. Alex really understands kids and is a great teacher. She gives her students so much energy, creativity, and inspiration! My daughter says that "Alex is Super Awesome!" I say that Camp Couture is a great experience for anyone who would like to learn to sew, and a creative learning environment for kids of all ages. read more

My 8 year old daughter really enjoyed her sewing camp here and learned so much! She brought home completed projects each day such as gloves, wallet, purse, etc. She gained confidence in using a sewing machine to make beautiful useful creations for herself and her family. I highly recommend this camp! read more

I like this place because we can make costumes,leotards,ugly dolls,doggy pouches,and mazes.

My daughter signed up for Alex's camp and I was WOWed!! Alex is inspiring, confidence building, and delightful. My daughter started the camp not knowing how to sew and ended with great skill. I love how Alex encourages the students to reuse materials, clothes to make new outfits. I think this is a great skill and environmentally friendly! We will definitely attend again. And her shop has great clothes and jewelry - mostly from local designers!! read more

I had an extraordinary experience here at Camp Couture with my daughter! We took a class together and we've had a wonderful time learning how to sew! Alexandria's class is filled with fun and creative projects. She is amazing! Her ideas are one of a kind and most of all, she is full of passion for what she does and in what she graciously shares with you. A true talent and one who genuinely cares about how much you'll learn about sewing and in working a sewing machine. I am most impressed by how she watched attentively on my six year old daughter as she is learning to sew and the numerous playful ideas she has given my child to play with to create the very first doll she has ever made from scratch. Thank you, Alexandria! read more

Alex was an amazingly patient and compassionate teacher! Starting with zero knowledge, I learned many basic techniques and sewing terminology on one project. Excited to return and work my way up to making garments. Camp Couture is the perfect place to learn how to sew as a life skill and find your creative outlet. read more

My mom recently bought me a sewing machine for Christmas and I knew it was time to learn how to use it when I was dusting off the box for the third time this year. I researched sewing classes online and discovered that Alexandria taught both private and small classes. I signed up for a small class and she literally helped me unpack my sewing machine, put it together, thread it, and design and sew my first creation, a beautiful tablecloth. She is a great teacher and I can't wait to take more classes from her. read more

I tried to register for a class online and was having difficulties, so I called the number on the site three times and left messages. I never got a response. I tried emailing and it didn't work either so gave up. read more

I was lucky enough to be at Camp Couture for a few days and it was amazing what these young people were making. With the expert guidance of Alexandria they finished their own designs of blouses, shirts and "crazy" dresses made out of re-purposed materials. I am definitely sending my granddaughters to Camp Couture for a week next summer. read more

Great Place! Alex is wonderful, young girls learn their basic sewing skills on a sewing machine during this camp, and get to make their own clothes. read more

I wish that I could give Alex & Camp Couture 20 stars! This is an AMAZING camp that truly fosters creativity and confidence. My daughter was so proud of her fashionable creations. Worth-Every-Penny-We-Will-Be-Back-For-More-Camp-Couture! read more

Had a fantastic lesson with Veronica and Alex this past weekend. I thought I would just create test swatches for two hours. But no! Instead, the team gave me pointers to set up my machine, gave me one test swatch to make and then helped me design and create an apron using multiple techniques. Veronica was very patient and positive and Alex provided great pointers. The only reason for 4/5 stars was a challenge with scheduling the class. Once at Camp Couture, the experience was great. I'm no longer afraid of my sewing machine. read more

Alex is an amazing teacher. I came to her knowing absolutely nothing about sewing and she was patient and helpful. I am so grateful for her. When I'm in the area i will make sure to take another class. If I had children I would send them to her. read more

I took a sewing class from Alexandria and I learned a lot!! She is a great and patient teacher. Since I had never used a sewing machine before, she explained how different sewing machines worked. We also worked on making a pillow for my foam cushion and the techniques that would make it look best. I had a great time learning from her and I look forward to taking another class from her. I would highly recommend Alexandria! read more

Camp Couture promotes confidence and creativity in children through fun and engaging sewing classes. My daughter has enjoyed the camps and classes that give her the ability to think outside the fashion box. The children learn to use their sewing machines safely and I'm impressed that my daughter decided to make her own Gold Rush outfit for her school trip to Coloma. We love this place! read more

I called to ask questions AFTER I read her FAQs on her website and most of her website. I called merely for more clarification. Whoever answered the phone was rude and not helpful. She just said, it's all on the website. If I could have found all the answers on the website, I would t have needed to call, right? So she was wrong. It was such a turn off that, despite her good reviews, I am not interested I taking sewing classes with her. Not would I ever refer anyone to this place. I can only imagine what she would be like in person. If I could give zero stars, I would! read more

This is an amazing camp for any child who loves creativity. I have sewn all my life and have sewn several projects with my girls. We had seen Alexandria on Project Runway and became excited to learn that she is local. My younger daughter and I attended a mommy and me class the Sunday before the camp just to ensure that she was ready, and wow was she ready. Each day that I came to pick the girls up, they showed me the amazing projects that they had worked on. The fabrics were beautiful! The projects were artistic!!! The girls just could not get enough so we will be back. I realize that this camp is not for everyone. However, it is not often that children get real quality instruction so when you find it, it feels like a treasure! Thank you Alexandria! read more

My child had the most amazing time at this camp. This camp should be for any child, teenager or adult that is wanting to know anywhere from just the basics, to even higher standards of wanting to have a career in the fashion industry. Alex is very professional and loves to get the kids to interact and help each other out. After all all children have a lot more fun when they meet a new friend and can make things together and help each other out. I loved that Alex taught not only how to sew but to teach each person to always be helpful with others because not everyone moves at the same pace. My child looked forward to going here every single time and I would recommend it to anybody of any age that is wanting to learn how to sew and make clothes. Who knows, maybe your child will be the next Marc Jacobs!! read more

My daughter attended a week of Camp Couture last summer, and now that we are planning this summer's schedule, definitely wants to come back. I didn't understand how much my daughter had learned under the tutelage of Alexandria and her assistants until she told me that she wanted to sew a Valentine's Day dress. I was highly skeptical (after all, she's only 9!), but bought the fabric for her and with minor assists, saw her make a simple dress that she is absolutely delighted with! Eight months later, she's proved that she really learned and internalized real sewing skills. I'm really happy that we have such a great resource for learning to sew and that Alexandria and her crew have the passion to share their knowledge and creativity with these young girls and boys! read more

Terrible experience for a summer camp. The owner Alex is over whelmed. 23 kids in camp paying $20/hr, and she has only 2 teen girls to assist her (and her mother at times who I heard is wonderful). Thus a lot of down time for kids. My daughter was disappointed as had such a great 1st experience last year (however there were 3 different adults on staff and less kids) and she described Alex as mean and having some younger kids nearly in tears on the 1st day. After I sent an email inquiry with feedback-even with praise for how much we love the projects, Alex took out her frustration on my 12 yr old daughter the next day. She pulled her aside after her mother (the other adult in the room)- left for the day and told her she was "ruining the camp", had an "awful attitude", "world doesn't revolve around you"," I could tell by the expression on your face (during a runway rehearsal) that you are a brat", "talking crap about me at Starbucks", "your mom is a bad influence" , "the next time I see your mom in here I'd like to give her the middle finger", and told her she's lucky the price for camp is so low. She also used the f word, and was holding a pair of scissors in her hand in a threatening way. My daughter was shocked-she didn't think to call me or to leave, so she stayed the last couple of hours and endured more abuse of Alex mockingly saying "Are we all having fun" while staring at her. She of course broke down in tears when I got home from work and told me what happened. Did not attend the final day. I did call the police about this harassment, but there is nothing criminal. Can only hope to get the word out by filling out a review and filing a complaint with the better business bureau. read more

My wife and I were extremely excited about this camp as the idea of a child learning sewing and design seemed so appealing. Unfortunately, while Alex truly does appear to have a nice sense of design, she does not seem to have the basic people skills one expects at a summer program for children. She can be mean and spiteful to the kids - not "I have such high standards" mean, but "I do not have the basic skills to interact appropriately with children" mean. Imagine someone kind, thoughtful, intuitive, and supportive -- and then imagine the exact opposite; such was our experience with Alex. No child should be exposed to her, and we deeply regret signing up. read more