This page is dedicated to all the hidden gems in the Los Angeles area, as well as clothing/ accessories/etc. that I find is trendy or should be a trend…

*************************************************************************

THE SEWING STUDIO

107 S. Fair Oaks Ave. Suite 328

Pasadena, CA 91105

I found out about the SEWING STUDIO from my friend, Rebekka, who works as a design assistant there. I arrived at the quaint two-room classroom/office in Old Town Pasadena, in time for the 10:30-1:30 Saturday class. After taking a seat out of the way, I observed my surroundings and listened as the instructor, Cynthia Harvey went over the class. There were seven people in that day’s class, which was in the process of making the Shift Dress. I noticed that the small class size and classroom were just enough so that Ms. Harvey could  have more “one-on-one” time with her students. She was very attentive to their needs, demonstrated the edge stitch and  helped the students with their sewing machines and fabric.

Cynthia Harvey is the CEO of Sewing Studio and is the only instructor. She attended FIDM (Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising) and majored in fashion design. After graduating, she worked in the industry for several years and this past year, started the Sewing Studio. She wanted to open the studio as a resource for designers and students who wanted to better their skills. She offers classes (some introductory and intermediate “ready-to-wear”) that make totes, dresses, skirts, etc for kids, teens and adults. There is also a class called, “Designer Challenge”, where  more advanced students can better their skills and also learn how to start a business. Classes start at $125-300 and are in a series for four weeks. However, she is offering a take one class, get one free  deal, partly due to the economic situation and getting people more involved in the industry.

For more information about the Sewing Studio (I highly recommend taking a course), you can contact Cynthia at the address above or www.4theloveofsewing.com or 626-795-9494.

*************************************************************************

The Sewing Lounge

3216 W. Magnolia Blvd.  — Burbank, CA 91505           Phone: (818)729-1781

I came to The Sewing Lounge when I was in a huge bind. My sewing machine broke, my dress form was inadequate  and there was just no room in my apartment to be creative. So, after seeing The Sewing Lounge while browsing the Magnolia Blvd. region of Burbank and ‘facebooking’ with the owner, Jessica, I decided that it was in my best interest to go to one of the open sewing sessions.

I was so glad I did. The space was ample, enough for me to spread out and create. It was a relief to use a proper dress form and a sewing machine that worked well.

The Sewing Lounge first opened its doors in April 2009 and is based on Jessica Dooley’s need to want to open a sewing lounge after browsing through sewing books with her mother. Her goal is to “empower people with the knowledge of sewing.” Jessica’s passion for fashion and watching people’s creativity grow shows; my sewing skills were basic, but she taught me a few tricks that will help me in future endeavors.

Jessica offers open sewing at $9/hr…. 2 hr workshops start at $40/per person….She also offers custom sewing and alterations. To learn more about the Sewing Lounge and the variety of classes offered, check out www.thesewingloungeburbank.com.