Instructor was excellent and very patient. There were only 2 of us in class so we were able to cover a lot and we made a drawstring bag, picked out patterns for a simple project and I bought the fabric to use for my project. They don't have a large selection of fabric or patterns but this is a beginner class so the project is supposed to be as simple as possible. read more

Sew New York - Drawstring bag and fabric supplied by class - Specialty Schools Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

I started sewing with Laura in 2016. I had no experience at all with hand stitching, threading a needle or using a sewing machine. It took baby steps and Laura's patience is amazing. To this day I am still taking classes. I love that the classes are small (3 students). You get so much attention. Sewing has become my passion, I like it so much I take 2 classes per week. I have made beautiful garments. I love going to class sipping on chamomile tea with honey and being surrounded with so much love and care. Laura always keeps an eye on you and helps you with every step of your project. My passion for sewing has grown so much that last year I recreated her sewing set up in my bedroom and purchased a singer feather weight and a Bernina. Sewing with Laura has changed my life and helped me cope with difficult time. I highly recommend taking classes with Laura. Give it a try even if you feel intimidated by it, Laura is just wonderful:) L.Lima read more

I signed up for ten sessions with Laura for $780 in the hopes that I would re-immerse myself in the craft of garment-making all the while learning how to make a simple pencil skirt. Unfortunately though, my hopes were dashed immensely by the end of the allotted ten sewing classes. I found myself waiting around for most of the class while she slowly attended to each person, rather than teaching us all together as one cohesive unit. Plus, by the end of it all, I only finished half of the garment. My pencil skirt was still missing a zipper, a hem, a waistband, and lining--and yet, she expected me to sign up for more sessions to finish the garment that I should have finished by the end of the tenth session. I ended up having to finish the garment myself via YouTube videos. In other words, a waste of time and money. If I could give zero stars, I would. read more

I attended Laura's sewing classes for over 2 years and she taught me everything as I was a true beginner when I first started! Laura is super patient and has a solution for every problem you may encounter in your project. She is also great at helping you pick a pattern, or a fabric based on your sewing skills, or even a sewing machine if you want to buy one to practice at home. I highly recommend her classes that are intimate (no more than 3 students). read more

Sewing with Laura is the best. I've been going to her for the past two years and I'm so glad I found her. It took me a while to find a sewing instructor since I did not want to attend a class (not enough individual attention) and I wanted to really learn the craft. Laura is perfect because her classes consist of only 2 people, so we each get plenty of individual attention. She works with your pace, and she corrects your problem areas while enhancing your strenghts. Her instructions are clear and she is able to give you individualized instructions for your own project. I have never felt rushed or confused, and under her guidance I've become a much more confident sewer. I've made a very nicely tailored lined boucle skirt and a beautiful spring sheath dress with ruching on the side. I've also managed to successfully alter some of my vintage clothes (due to my Mad Men vintage clothes obsession) to be perfectly tailored for me. Even my husband commented on my wardrobe. I'm also finally able to decipher sewing patterns for garment construction so I'm not so intimidated when I look at a pattern. She taught me how to lay sewing pattern pieces on the fabric, how to pin correctly and how to cut correctly and how to read (the sometimes very unclear or unreadable) instructions. I still have much more to learn but I feel like I've made a lot of progress taking her class and I will continue to take her class to learn more. There's a certain satisfaction to be able to tell someone who asks about what you're wearing to say "Oh, this? I made it myself." =) I highly recommed her for anyone who is interested in learing to sew, whether you're a beginner or you're looking to brush up on your sewing skills. read more

Learning to sew with Laura surpasses any group sewing class I have attended. She is an experienced seamstress with 25 years of experience, and will teach you professional sewing techniques, one on one in her Brooklyn Heights apartment, but best of all - she makes it seem easy. Never in a million years did I believe I could sew, and because of her, I can!!! I'm currently making custom curtains for my bedroom - which, in the end, will be sewn correctly, accurately, and professionally. Much better than anything I might have gotten at a regular home store. Also, in my experience, I have found that certain schools(which I will not name) geared to the average home sewing student teach terribly wrong - you often learn the wrong techniques, like learning to trace your pattern onto your good fabric, which is, um, a HUGE mistake. Some schools waste your time and money with classes that don't teach the basics and you walk away really not learning anything, or cram too many students in a class and you do not get any one on one attention. Or, they tell you that your first project will be a skirt, but it is a skirt that doesn't incorporate any sewing techniques, so you don't even learn how to make a basic dart, or a waistband, or you don't learn the basic types of seams, and it ends up being a skirt that you can never wear. These one on one lessons are the way to go if you want to learn how to make a cute skirt, or some cushions for your home, or anything else you want to make. Plus, depending on your project, she charges between $30 and $35 an hour, with a 2 hour minimum. A little more expensive than the group classes, but you'll end up walking away with actual knowledge. I can't praise this enough!!! read more

If you are serious about learning to sew (not just making one pull-on skirt that will most likely never see the light of day), you should give Laura of Sew New York a call. One look at her website (www.sewny.com) and you will see the difference between sewing classes with Laura and other New York City sewing schools. Laura provides one-on-one attention and will work with you to help you create the garments you want to add to your wardrobe. After creating an elegant, lined, zippered, wool skirt with darts and a beautiful, finished hem, Laura worked with me to pick out my next sewing project and I began construction on a bib dress with lace detailing. Laura not only taught me how to use the sewing machine, but about actual construction, as well as fabrics and design basics. Her classes are a gift to anyone that has always dreamed about creating their own garments but never believed they could do so. read more

I have been taking classes with Laura for the past 6 months and have had a wonderful experience so far. This is basically as good as it gets in terms of sewing instruction without going for a degree. Laura herself is a super friendly, cool lady who is both professional, fun, patient and encouraging. I always look forward to taking her class. I started Laura's class with very little experience sewing. The instruction is project-based, the first being a pencil skirt which I just finished and it looks great. It is fully lined, with a waistband, invisible zipper, flattering darts and other professional features. Laura really takes the time to teach you as much about technique, from hand-stitching to working from a muslin prototype to really get the results you want; something that I think other classes lack because of time restraints or class size. You go at your pace and can feel yourself improving over time. I highly recommend Laura's class to anyone looking to learn about sewing or improve on technique. read more

I took a sewing course at FIT which taught me the basics such as using a machine and basic pattern reading but I wanted to learn to put in zippers and do more. I found Sew New York through a web search and the yelp reviews were great. I immediately emailed Laura and she sent me a detailed response about what prices/class times/what I should expect from the class. Laura teaches the class out of her home. She has three students per class and two machines. That is not an issue because usually one person is cutting or pinning or I had no problems getting to use the machines when I needed them. The machines she has are beautiful. One is a singer from the 1940s and it worked wonderfully. I forget what the other was, but it was an older machine that also worked great. Laura taught me more about reading patterns, and about basting, tailor tacks, darts and installing zippers. I had to stop going after 10 classes because my work schedule changed but I would totally recommend Laura's class and I plan on taking some days off work soon so I can fit in more classes. read more

I have been taking classes with Laura for about two years, and I love it. She provides a nice, relaxed environment and is such a great, patient teacher. I have made quality, wearable garments including a pencil skirt, a wool jacket, and a dress. Her pricing is fair and I would definitely recommend her to anyone interested in taking sewing classes! read more

I am taking a sewing class here. I love the place already. The instructor is very friendly, helpful and knowledgable! I have learnt a lot. After talking to Moni the owner of the shop. I really like her philosophy of her business. I'm definitely coming back for more classes in the future! read more

I absolutely loved taking sewing classes with Laura! I came to her with essentially no knowledge of sewing (despite having attempted other sewing classes in the past) and left with the ability to sew and make garments on my own! Pretty empowering. Laura is a thorough and patient teacher and just really fun to be around. After giving me a detailed intro of sewing terms and tools, different hems, fabrics, etc., she walked me through, step by step, how to use a pattern to make a beautifully tailored skirt (using both hand stitching and a sewing machine.) This is no amateur skirt - it's one that I am proud to wear and show off. It's been several months since I was last able to take a class with Laura and I can honestly say that all of the skills she taught me have stuck with me - evidence of how fantastic a teacher she is! The small group class size (there were a total of three students, including myself) was perfect and Laura gave us plenty of individual attention when needed and was always happy to answer our many questions. I found the classes very therapeutic and relaxing. I simply can't say enough great things about Laura - she's an exceptional teacher and a wonderful person and I would recommend her classes to anyone who wants to learn how to sew and pick up a new craft. read more

I took a class here almost a year ago (actually private lesson to learn how to use my machine) and LOVED it. She is very knowledgeable and a fantastic teacher. Definitely recommend!!!!!!!!!! read more

I took classes with Laura, which seemed like a good idea. She is sweet, but for what I paid for the classes. I took group classes at several locations in Brooklyn which were so much cheaper and then took one at Make. I would not recommend Laura unless you really have money to dish out. She talks a lot and there is less doing. read more

If you want to learn how to sew, you need to take classes with Laura. You can't really find out if sewing is your "thing" until you make a complete garment from start to finish. The first project in Laura's class is a lined pencil skirt with an invisible zipper. You learn how to pick out fabrics (she also provides a complete list of stores where you can get everything you'll need), read a pattern, and alter it for the perfect fit. Laura is with you every step of the way. There are only two students per class so there is never time when you're sitting around idly and Laura is watching so if you're stuck, she knows and helps immediately. I have wanted to learn how to sew for years and have tried several times. I have taken classes with 6-8 students and have always been turned off by either the project (too simple) or the lack of attention. Laura really knows how to teach. She shows you what to do and then watches you as you follow her instructions. She is incredibly patient if you have a hard time getting the hang of something. And she doesn't teach short cuts. You learn to how to properly construct a garment. Then you can decide if you want to continue on but don't give up on sewing until you've taken a class with Laura! The proof of how good Laura is as a teacher is what I've been able to accomplish on my own. After four months of classes with her, I was able to read a pattern and construct a dress and wasn't intimidated at all because I had such a good teacher. In addition to being a great teacher, Laura is also a lovely person. The class time is a real treat and I always look forward to it. I highly recommend her if you really want to learn how to make clothes from an expert teacher. read more

I found laura on yelp after trying to make a skirt with a very expensive wool. I soon realized that I couldn't sew! Enter sewny. I loved the class. Laura is a very patient teacher with a lot of experience. I felt comfortable going through my lessons at my own pace. Soon I was basting, sewing and cutting the correct way. I now have a tailored skirt that I get a lot of compliments on and I just love saying that I made it! Ask to see some of the clothes she created, my fav is a camel coat with a gorgeous faux fur collar. read more

I highly recommend Laura's sewing classes! I came with a little bit of experience, and have learned so much. I took a few other classes around town, but the small class size and individual learning style with Laura makes skills stick in comparison to a larger class size format. Since I have been studying with Laura, I made a gorgeous pencil skirt, a finely tailored boucle wool jacket, and a lightweight summer shift dress. Each class has a total of 3 students, all of whom are working on different projects. As a result, you can go as slowly or as quickly as you need. Laura guides you through the techniques, allowing you to learn as you go, and is always there to help when you have a question or need guidance. My confidence sewing has grown enormously. Laura's skill level is amazing. You can tell she has a passion for the subject matter and that she really enjoys teaching others. She has a pleasant, open manner, and makes you feel comfortable day one. For most of your projects, you will pick out and purchase your fabric and trimmings - but all the equipment you need (sewing machines, needles, iron, scissors, etc.) are available at the class. For that reason, if you want to try out sewing, this is a great opportunity to do so without needing to invest in all the tools. If you enjoy it and want to keep at it, you may want to have the tools at home so you can work on your projects between classes. Best of all, it's two hours of your week where you are able to focus on something other than work and home, and can zen out while creating something beautiful that will fit you perfectly. I refer to it as "my therapy, but with outfits". An added bonus - the other people in the class have been terrific, and I've been able to make some good friends along the way. read more

Sewing can be an intimidating skill to begin, but with Laura you could not be in better hands! The classes are absolutely worth it. I have taken group sewing classes before, only to discover that they don't provide enough individual attention. Laura is extremely attentive, professional, and knowledgeable. You could not ask for a better instructor. Every concern or question you may have, she has the answers for. I must add that I was in the midst of putting my portfolio together for entry into FIT when I began her classes. I attempted to construct garments before to no avail, but with Laura's help I was able to produce two professionally, well done garments for my portfolio. She helped me through the entire process, and was completely understanding and patient. Needless to say, with her help I was accepted! I am extremely grateful for her guidance and support. Now, I feel entirely confident with my sewing skills. She provided a solid foundation for my fashion design career, and now I love sewing more than ever. You just gotta do it! Sewing therapy at it's finest! read more

SEW NEW YORK is FABULOUS! - - Today I absolutely love my sewing lessons with Laura. She is obviously an experienced teacher with an organized plan for giving her students a proper background in sewing fundamentals. In the first bunch of weeks I not only learned a variety of stitches and techniques but was well on my way towards making a fully lined skirt (much more fun than the usual beginning sewing tote bag or curtains). In addition, she was extremely responsive to my particular strengths and weaknesses and found a way to focus the lessons on the issues where I needed the most hands-on guidance and encouraged me to do the rest of the job at home. This worked out perfectly and I soon felt confident enough to suggest a project that was perhaps a bit complicated for my level. She was supportive and worked with me to find an appropriate pattern, and continually modified the process to accommodate my new skills. Since she has been sewing and teaching for a long time, she knows all the ins and outs of the garment district stores - where to shop for what, how to navigate the different stores which can be a bit intimidating at first. She is personable, sensitive, encouraging, and flexible but at the same time makes sure you use proper technique and practice good sewing habits. Finally, communicating with Laura is easy and straightforward - she promptly answers emails and is clear and informative regarding logistical issues such as scheduling, making payments, etc... read more

Hmmmm, maybe once you get into the class it;s ok, but good luck getting a hold of Laura. She responded right away when I inquired about the classes and payment, but took 3 months to get back to me about enrolling my daughter after sending several requests via email. When I finally tracked down her number from another mom and asked her about when I could enroll my daughter, she responded with a rude text that it wasn't appropriate for me to contact her this way and that email was the "appropriate" way to reach her--really? 'cause lord knows I can email, but it hadn't been working so far. She closed with "Apologies" as an afterthought that seemed like a disingenuous afterthought and left me feeling scolded--for trying to get a hold of her AFTER I paid. I decided at that point she was not worth dealing with and requested my money back. She then sent me a lecturing txt about MY bad attitude. I've really never experienced anything like this. It was very upsetting for me and my daughter who had been looking forward to the class. I've since signed her up for Esaie Couture Design School. read more

I agree with everything said thus far! Laura's sewing classes are not your average learn-to-sew-a-tote-bag classes. She teaches you skills you can use to make future garments, like darts, hand stitches, and various hem stitches, as you create a garment you will really want to wear. She teaches you how to insert a sleeve, decipher a pattern, and make a pattern fit YOU. Pricing is fair, the classes are casual, and with two people per class, you get one-on-one attention and work on your own project at your own pace. Laura also helps you decide what fabric might work with your project, where to shop for fabrics and notions, and differences between fabrics (she has a fibers background). The fact that many of her students have been sewing with her for 2+ years speaks for itself. I had some sewing experience prior to Laura's classes, but she has brought my skill level much, much higher to the point where people are amazed that I made a particular garment. I have had no problem applying what I've learned to projects I work on at home on my own, and if I run into questions or issues, Laura patiently explains and assists. read more

I've taken many different sewing classes in many different cities, and ended up dropping out of each one for (mainly) the same reason: lack of personal attention. Private lessons are almost always the best way to go when learning a new skill; unfortunately, they tend to be expensive and awkward if you don't have a good relationship with your teacher. Laura McCracken of Sew New York is one of the best teachers I've ever had. She's easy-going, friendly and excellent at her craft. Classes are always a joy to go to, not only because of the sunny, comfortable studio environment, but because she takes the time to understand your personal needs instead of teaching everyone the same way (as what happens in group classes). Laura's prices are fair and very affordable, and completely worth the investment. After just a few months, I've already made gorgeous garments that fit me perfectly - no more frumpy bags and pillows from those group classes! I simply cannot recommend Sew New York enough. read more

This is by far the best experience I have had taking sewing classes. Laura is a gifted teacher who really wants her students to learn more than the basics . I am not just learning how to make a garment - a gorgeous, custom fit straight skirt. I am learning about fabrics, how to choose materials for specific projects, where to get what in the garment district, getting a feel for different sewing machines, and so much more. Laura is warm and personable and takes great care in teaching her students as well as in providing them with a really nice environment in which to learn. She puts thought and care into every aspect of the experience - from the pattern she custom makes for you to the way she paces the lessons around your experience. I took a group class and there is simply no comparison. I have learned so much that I would never have learned in a group setting. The quality of Laura's teaching is exceptional and I cannot recommend her highly enough. read more