Tchad is fantastic. He took the thoughts in my head and he turned him into reality and made this beautiful pillow for me. I'm now paralyzed in a wheelchair and it's been the best thing I've ever had because it cradles my neck and keeps my head steady, even when my headrest doesn't. It's grateful for travel as well. This man knows his stuff and is the absolute best read more

tchad is the best! if you are looking for a sewing community where you can work on any project with expert help, Tchad is the place to go

I have been attending classes at Tchad for 2 years now and have learned SO SO MUCH! It has gotten to the point where I am sewing up a storm on my own, and when I'm in class, Tchad is always helping me learn a new technique. I've learned about fabric behavior, pattern-making, drafting, and learning from my mistakes. Tchad's teaching style is very patient, humorous, and kind. He always provides multiple ways to do things so you can try various methods and find what your own personal sewing style is. I love that I can bring him a screen shot of something I've found online, and together we plan and make it a reality whether it's using a pattern or drafting it by hand. It truly is magic and he is the BEST teacher. I will never get enough! Also- his work room is by far a candy land of sewing! He has every tool imaginable, many different types of machines, and an awesome fashion/sewing library. Please check out the photos because all of them are garments that I've made since I've been in Tchad's class. Tchad's studio is my happy place. :) read more

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10 week's ago I had never even thread a needle. Today I finished the class with an awesome pair of shorts! THAT I MADE!! I had always wanted to learn how to make clothes and made a resolution this year to finally do it. After a lot of searching online, I found Tchad's classes. The structure of the classes and environment seemed perfect. So I took the leap and signed up! And I never regretted it for a moment...it has been a wonderful experience, and I'm already looking forward to the Spring session. Tchad is a fantastic instructor....extremely knowledgeable, patient, and effective communicator. I couldn't have asked for more, so his friendliness and humor were a bonus. I will only say this in reference to the two dissenting reviewers: as an actual student in Tchad's classes, I have never witnessed the type of behaviors from Tchad described there. Not for a moment. And I'm certain the dozens of other students-whom I was so fortunate to meet, get to know, share support with, and be amazed by their creativity-ALL of them would likely agree. Don't even sweat it. read more

I cannot recommend Tchad's classes enough. He is an incredibly knowledgeable, talented, and empathetic educator. I'm working on a complicated cosplay at the moment, and not a class passes that I do not feel grateful for choosing to do this instead of attempting to do it on my own. I'm learning a lot and getting more confident in my skills I now know more about basic sewing, patterning, applique, basic sewing machines maintenance. Tchad is always there to offer advice and help. These are odd pandemic times and I am one of the cautious people that basically does not leave the house without assessing the risks and avoiding them as much as possible. I feel safe taking classes at Tchad's studios, the place has been redone to allow for proper social distancing, everything is cleaned and disinfected meticulously, everybody is wearing masks and being cognisant of not being in class if there is even a possibility of exposure. One last thing I would like to mention is the fact that the class is a very diverse and welcoming place. I very much enjoy learning about different things from people of different walks of life, backgrounds, race, gender. It is lovely to chat with everyone, especially in these isolated times. There is a place for you there. read more

As a person interested in sewing and design, but who lacked the knowledge of how to work with patterns or get the most use out of a sewing machine - I was looking for a class that would suit my needs. I felt the offerings at other local venues were more geared towards making a pillow or simple projects and lacked the one-on-one guidance and detail I knew I would need. All that to say that Tchad's classes are fantastic. They are just what I was looking for. His classes are not pillow-making; they are sewing and garment instruction. I feel like I am in a college class, not a weekend art project. The introductory class is perfect for people of all skill levels - even someone like me who has some sewing experience can really learn more. The studio space is great to work in - and the small class sizes make it easy to spread out and focus on projects. I am thrilled that I found these classes - tchad is a hidden gem. read more

Tchad is awesome. He teaches his classes in his working studio, so you're surrounded by his designs and can make use of his tools, and it's a relaxed, fun environment. He's a great teacher- he pays close attention to how you're doing, whether you're really getting it or not, and he tailors his instruction to meet you at your level. You'll get a lot of individual attention in his classes, and he is patient with even your most idiotic mistakes. He's very generous with his time, and very flexible. He seems to take delight in people doing well, which is a sign of a truly good teacher. His course may seem expensive, but if you can swing it all, it's worth it. I don't have a ton of money, but to me it's an investment in the basic skills, to get me started. You can't learn like this from a book or a fabric store class. Although it's so much fun and I'm learning so much that I think I'll probably end up digging up the money to take another course. Oh yeah- Tchad is also hilarious. He will entertain you with amusing anecdotes and his slightly cracked sense of humor. read more

Love, love, loved Thcad's class! My friend recommended him to me, and I have recommended him to all of my friends. It was worth every penny. I went from not being able to thread my sewing machine to actually making my own clothes from a pattern. And it was super fun just hanging out. The best part is that he customized it to each person's skillset, goals and level. So I could take the same class again, and have a completely different experience. :) read more

I spent several years of my life going numerous times per week to Tchad's workroom, and I loved every moment of it! During this time, I created two dresses to wear at my siblings' weddings, as well as numerous other items. While I am out of practice now, as I became busy with a young family, I still miss my time at Tchad's. I recently visited Tchad to get my sewing machine fixed, as it broke when making a lovey for my child. I can attest to the extent of his precautions concerning COVID, as my family and I remain extremely cautious. Time-permitting, I would feel very safe in his classes. Regarding his classes, not only did I learn a ton about sewing, I also had a wonderful time learning about a wide range of differing topics from a diverse and inspiring group of students. I miss my time at Tchad's, and I am grateful to Tchad for creating a wonderful sewing opportunity and for creating such a terrific and fun atmosphere for several meaningful years of my life!!! read more

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Tchad is the absolute best. The classes are small, the workspace is great for learning, and Tchad is amazing. With his down to earth and funny personality, Tchad creates an unintimidating environment where you can relax, and enjoy learning. I love that Tchad not only teaches the technique, but also explains why you are doing something, so your more likely to remember it for future use. Finally, I feel like I am making something that won't look like I made it. I can't imagine going any place else. I wrote the above review after my first set of classes with Tchad, now on my third. At first I made a simple wrap dress, then a lined skirt, now I am making a lined jacket. He taught me how to alter patterns to fit me and with those skills I altered a pattern on my own and made something I wore out! He is the absolute BEST and worth every cent. read more

Tchad has expanded and redone his studio and it's now bigger, brighter, and even more beautiful. I'm now in my fourth round of classes with him and they just keep getting better. As far as I can tell, his knowledge of garment construction (or just about anything DIY) is encyclopaedic and his patience nearly boundless. A warning to potential students though: you will become completely addicted to making your own chic, custom-fitted clothing and find yourself spending too much time at fabric stores. read more

Tchad Elliott's sewing classes are simply AWESOME! I have been taking the classes for 3 seasons now, and continuing, and I am very pleased with his teaching and the workroom. Tchad teaches from Beginner to Advanced sewers. Not need to own a sewing machine since all the equipment is provided in his workroom. I think the best part is that I can create my very own custom projects (whether it's a dress, a skirt, a suit, a vest, a shirt, a coat, designer jeans, or a costume). I choose to build a collection, while others in the class choose to work on patterns and adapt it for a perfect-fit, or for wearing a fabric or color they love, some just for the pleasure & knowledge of making their own clothes, or making clothes for others. + Tchad only limits to 5 students per class, so that it's more enjoyable for everyone. To contact him call, email tchadelliott@mac.com, or call 773-680-5914, and his site is tchad.biz read more

Echoing what everyone else has already said...sewing classes here are a delight! It's for anyone, whether you have used a sewing machine before or not. I'd never worked with patterns or even known how to thread a machine and the instructor encourages you and challenges you all the time. I met some wonderful people and enjoyed many interesting conversations! Highly recommend! read more

I have just reached the middlepoint of my second set of 10 classes with Tchad and I am already sad the class has to end. As other reviewers have indicated, Tchad's instruction is perfect for a novice, intermediate, or (as I have observed not experienced) an advanced sewer. Tchad adeptly juggles the different skills of each of his clients while peppering the class with hilarity. The three hours fly by and each time I leave I am beaming with pride because I am that much closer to a finished garment. Email him for the schedule for the next set of classes, just don't take my space in the next class! read more

Tchad is a gifted, generous, and patient teacher who adapts to each student's learning style and skill. I have taken sewing classes at least 3 different places and Tchad's classes are, hands down, the best. They rock! Tchad is always enthusiastic about your work and will guide you to achieve your best result. Your understanding of construction, fabric, and design will grow, and your technique will soar. What's more, Tchad's classes are lively, the studio is bright, and sewing machines are provided. read more

I have taken two 10-week classes with Tchad so far and have learned a ton. I was a beginner before taking his classes, and now I feel comfortable enough to sew with knits and create simple patterns that match my clothing designs. You will learn much more with him than at any sewing class you take at the Needle Shop or Lillstreet Art Center. Tchad is very knowledgeable, patient, encouraging, and fun. He is also very flexible, which really comes in handy while taking a ten week class. Since he has classes almost every day, if you cannot come to class on your regularly scheduled day, you can almost always come in on another day that week or another week to make up the time. Tchad is also flexible in that he allows students to make virtually anything they want according to their skill level - as opposed to a class where everyone makes an apron or a pillow. This way you are more motivated to complete a project and are able to work at your own pace without feeling the pressure to keep up with others in the class. Great for all skill levels! read more

I cannot say enough amazing things about Tchad, his style of teaching, his open mindedness, his avid curiosity, and his expertise. I started taking classes 3 years ago and I haven't stopped. I started the classes because I wanted a creative outlet, I love dresses and fashion, and I wanted to learn how to make interesting things that fit me perfectly. I have now made many things I could never have imagined creating a few years ago and I am proud to show them off! The classes are small (up to 6 people) and can certainly accommodate various levels, from students who have never used a sewing machine (like me) to advanced fashion students. Even with the wide ranges of skill levels it is not intimidating because the atmosphere is so supportive. The ages in the class vary from high school to 80 years old and represent a range of professions and backgrounds - there is a nice diversity to the classes which makes it perfect for ANYONE. The word "class" should be used loosely - this is not a sit down and take notes for a test type of session...this is HIGHLY individualized which I personally love. I can talk to Tchad about what my vision is and he will help me get there...but (as the best teachers do) he will not do your work for you and allows his students to challenge themselves to learn. He is not judgmental with a student's style and goals, but will be honest about what obstacles they might encounter with a project (i.e., fabric suggestions, etc.). It is the highlight of my week to go to Tchad's class, for both learning a new craft and for the expertise and guidance of Tchad himself! read more

Unprofessional and unpleasant! I enrolled in one of Tchad's classes years ago! I enrolled in one of his courses that promised to teach some of the skills I was interested in learning. After I enrolled, Tchad said he wasn't going to follow the (advertised!) course description, so I wouldn't learn the skills I was interrelated. When I asked for a refund, he refused in a very ugly way. He doesn't teach at Oakton anymore because I was not the only student who complained. read more

WARNING! WARNING! WARNING! WARNING! VERY ********BAD BUSINESS***********!!! SAVE YOURSELF A SCAM! I was very interested in this class based on the reviews I saw here, so I contacted Tchad. He wouldn't answer my question about whether or not specific openings were available until I submitted my payment. AFTER I paid, he told me that his class, which bills itself as an all-purpose class suitable for various levels of skill and various kinds of apparel and home sewing, was NOT suitable for my interests, which was working with knit fabrics. AMAZINGLY, Tchad refused to issue a refund. This all occurred in a space of a week. He didn't turn away any other students to accept me because a friend was thinking of joining me and he indicated he had multiple vacancies in every session that I/we asked about it. And I never even attended a single class, but still no refund! OUTRAGEOUS AND SO, SO not worth it! AVOID AVOID AVOID!! read more

If you are somehow able to get an answer from them - then I am sure that the experience would be great. I left at least 2 voicemails, sent 3 emails and one FB post - to no avail - 3 weeks later. The other reviews seem great but they must be really busy so I won't be trying out their services. read more

Tchad is a superb teacher with an encyclopedic knowledge of garment construction, sewing technique, fabric behavior, and (important for me) reasonable expectations. I came with a long list of particulars for a week-long tutorial, and he gently guided me toward a useful, absorbing set of exercises that quickly brought me to next-level craft. He pays close attention to his work and communicates beautifully, even when students are sewing at widely different levels of expertise. I especially appreciate the breadth of his interests and his opinions on the political, social, and economic aspects of garment production. Tchad seems to meet his students wherever they are at the beginning of their studies with him and then commits himself totally to their success. I cannot recommend him highly enough and hope that those who might have had some difficulty making contact with him will persist. The effort will be entirely worthwhile. read more

Tchad's classes are fabulous. As others have mentioned, he is truly a great find, a hidden gem, a unique individual and a wonderful teacher. My 14 year old daughter wanted to learn to sew. She is hard to fit "off-the-rack" and perhaps wanted to learn to make her own clothes. She has LOVED the last two sessions she has taken with Tchad. He has been wonderful with her and very flexible with her busy high school schedule. She has called him from the fabric store more than once and he is quick to respond with great advise. He seems to be a knowledgeable and caring person and his studio is bright and sunny. My daughter says the "vibe" is really nice. We're so glad to have found Tchad. read more

Tchad's rules. He is an excellent teacher. He's patient, thorough, available, a little strict which is great, and a nice person to spend 3 hours sewing with. I learned so much and I'm really sad the class session is coming to an end. I will be taking another class. Highly recommend for all levels. read more

Great sewing classes! Tchad is a great and very patient teacher; the 3 hours of class just fly by. He will always adjust his teaching to your level, and will answer your questions, no matter how stupid they are. :) I would recommend these sewing classes to anyone! read more

Tchad Elliott may quite possibly be the best sewing and design instructor in the nation! He definitely has helped me to complete sewing projects and answer any and all questions surrounding the proper way to construct fashionable clothing. His workroom is state of the art with plenty of space to set your sewing machine or use one of his numerous machines. He even has a great leather machine and several industrial strength machines that will sew any material from silk to sailcloth. If you have a project that you've been dreaming of completing but can never find the time, I would recommend signing up for one of Tchad's classes and getting it done with lots of helpful guidance from a professional designer who really seems to know the answer! Soon you'll be designing and completing garments that you can and will wear with confidence. I have taken several quarter long classes and will be taking more as it enables me to actually get things done when I show up to class each week. read more