Frequently Asked Questions
I am an adult and have never sewn anything in my life or used a sewing machine ever! Where do I start?
We recommend that you start with the Machine Basics Class to familiarize yourself with a sewing machine and how it works. You can then follow it up with a project-based class. You can also attend Camp Couture summer camp for adults which is EVERY Tuesday in June July and August evening from 6.15 – 8.15 p.m.
Why Attend The Camp Couture?
We teach you exactly what you want to learn. We embrace creativity and are skilled enough to make and teach anything you want to learn.
How many students per class for the kids summer camp ?
The capacity is 22 students. Attendance fluctuates depending on the dates. Please inquire for availability prior to signing up.
How do I pay?
You may pay via cash, check, Bitcoin or Paypal. The PayPal handle is campcouture.payment@gmail.com. Please add 3.5% for fee for the use of their service.
I used to sew, but haven’t done so in a while. What class would you suggest?
Depending on what you remember, you might want to take the Machine Intro Class or sign up for a basic project class like the pajama making class.
What kinds of classes do you offer?
- Baby Blankets & Clothing
- Basic Hemming and Alterations
- Computer bags, make up bags, purses and tote bag –
- Corset making
- Home Decor
- Lingerie
- Swimwear
- Pajama Basics
- Sewing Machine Basics
- Sewing with patterns
- Skirts with darts and a zipper or an elastic waist
- Specialty techniques – zippers, buttonholes & pockets
- Using a serger-
- Yoga Pants/All things Stretch
- Make your own prom dress
- Alterations
- Check the class list for more classes.
If your interests are not listed, please contact us in regard to your special interest and we will do our best to teach you what you want to learn.
I am good at sewing – what classes do you have that will challenge me?
Some of our more advanced classes include corset making & fine garment construction. All of these classes require that you have good solid sewing skills already under your belt, and involve more complicated construction methods and/or tailoring techniques. We also offer some basic pattern making classes for those of you who want to turn your sketches into reality.
I want to buy a pattern. Any suggestions?
In general, patterns labeled “easy,” “quick,” “2-hour,” or something similar are best. Patterns with fewer pieces will go together easier. Try to avoid Vogue™ patterns or any advanced skill patterns for your first projects as they have tend not to be friendly beginners.
Can you teach me to copy this vintage dress I have that is falling apart?
Yes. Vintage clothing is getting more rare & expensive, and we can learn so much from studying the construction methods. We can teach you how to copy a garment without taking it apart in most cases – it depends on how complicated the design is.
Do I need a sewing machine?
No. We provide all tools and machines needed to complete your project. BUT!! It is beneficial to bring/use your own machine so that you can better understand your sewing machine.
Can I bring my own sewing machine to class?
All students are welcome to bring her or his own sewing machine or serger to class, although we provide machines for your use.
I do not know how to use my machine. Can you help me?
Yes. I would suggest a 1-2 hour private session on how to use your machine.
Can you recommend a sewing machine?
Try borrowing before buying. put the word out to loved ones and friends and chances are somebody out there has a spare machine with your name on it. if the lender hasn’t been used for a while, take it to a sewing machine repair shop for a check-up.
A new no-frills machine will run you around $200-$300. of course you can spend much, much more! if you’ve never sewn before, consider taking an intro to sewing machine class at make or buy from a local dealer that offers free lessons with purchase. the more experience you have sewing before buy, the better!
Viking, Bernina, Janome and some Kenmore brands have been successful for me. I have also refurbished some used machines from occasionally for sale. Please inquire for this particular inventory. Newer machines have different bells and whistles like embroidery functions, so depending on what you want to achieve will strongly affect the direction in your purchase.
What do I need for the class?
Everything is provided. You may bring in old garments to upcycle, if you wish.
What type of fabric do you recommend for beginner projects?
100% cotton woven fabric is the easiest fabric for beginners to work with. It’s not too slippery and it has enough body to stand up to a lot of handling. Plus, it’s comfy! If you are dead set against cotton for your project, contact us and we’ll discuss what other fabrics would be appropriate. Cotton/linen blends, heavier or raw silks, lightweight wools – all of these would be appropriate for the adventuresome in certain classes
How old do you have to be to join the camp or lessons?
Ages range from 7 – 70 years of age. We teach all ages. The summer day camp is geared for kids and we have an adult camp that is every Tuesday evening from 6.15-8.15 pm. The kids camp curriculum is designed for kids to truly learn how to sew and walk away daily feeling accomplished. No one is held back and no one is left behind. Everyone works at their own pace. All the projects are designed for success.
I want to learn something specific. Can I have a class in that?
If you want to learn something specific that we are not offering in a class format, you can sign up for a private class. For Summer Camp sessions, our curriculum is extensive and has a lot to chose from. We do not allow private projects unless the student is a competent sewer.
Do I need to bring a pattern?
If there is a specific project or pattern you want to work from, by all means, bring it. We have patterns available at the studio. I suggest taking a class on reading patterns.
When do you have classes?
Classes are on going throughout the weekday, evenings and weekends. Please refer to the Class Calendar for specific dates and times of classes. Private classes are scheduled by appointments. You can also contact us directly to ask for upcoming classes that may not have been uploaded on to this site.
Do you have private lessons?
Yes, Private classes are by appointment. Please contact us directly for more information.
Can I have a private party?
Yes! We have a variety of options for parties. Please contact us directly and or review the Party section of this site.
Do you do birthday parties?
Yes we do. Please click here to see the birthday party packages we have available. We can customize parties to suit particular themes. “One camp, infinite possibilities.”
Where are you located?
We are located in San Mateo.1628 Palm Avenue San Mateo CA 94402
How do I sign up?
Please click on the sign up link on this website and fill out the attached form.
Do you have gift certificates?
Yes. You may buy in person or online. Email direct for specifics.
Can I visit the studio?
Give us a call and we’ll set up an appointment for you to checkout the studio. We’d love to see you!
What happens if I can’t make a class?
Because of the special nature of our offerings and very limited enrollment, camp are nonrefundable. We will honor transfers into alternate sessions within reasonable timelines. Summer Camp weeks cannot be split between weeks.
When should I arrive for class?
Arrive on time or 5 minutes before.
Do I have to provide my child lunch for the summer camp sessions?
Yes….but we now offer daily hot lunch for $6.00 provided by the Mexican Restaurant next door. An adult will place the order and bring the lunch back to the studio. If you don’t want a hot lunch, please pack you could with lunch and water.
Can you recommend a good seamstress, sample-maker or costumer ?
Please refer to the custom sewing section of this website for complete details.
Do you do alterations and hemming?
Yes. We have an experienced tailor in house, please call us for an appointment.
How do I become a summer intern ?
If you know how to sew, are creative , we’d love other from you. Internships are paid and are 6 weeks in duration.
Do you rent workshop space and use of your machines?
Please refer to the custom sewing section of this website for complete details.
Rent workshop space by the hour to use our sewing machines or bring yours. Available in the workshop: sergers (4 sergers total), 25 sewing machines, cover stitch machine, heavy duty industrial Juki sewing machine, heat press and steam iron. You must know how to use a sewing machine to rent workshop space. $50.00 for per hour.
Summer Camp General Info:
Camp starts at 9.30 am and finishes at 2.30 pm.
If you need morning care, or extended care, please let me know so that we can arrange.
The morning care and extended care hours are:
Morning care : 8:00 am -9.30
After care is: 3.00- 6 pm
The children are welcome to sew in after care.
The fee is $20.00 per hour and the final bill can be settled on that Friday when you pick up your child.
If extended care is not needed, and parents are late, we will charge $1.00 per minute late. Our helpers stay until the last child goes home.
Location :
1628 Palm Avenue
San Mateo CA 94403
Email:
Website: www.thecampcouture.com
My direct contact number is 650.346.1533
Texting is ideal but calling is ok and faster.
Kids should dress in layers and wear shoes they can easily slide on and off so that they can feel the pressure of the and associate the speed to that pressure. Flip flops are ok. We get a little “messy” making art, so practical and not new clothes is ideal. We have aprons, but accidents still happen.
Kids are to bring their own water/hydration, lunch and snack.
New** Hot lunch is provided by the Mexican Restaurant for $6.00 per day. They can choose from a veggie or meat burrito, or quesadilla with fries. We started this late last summer and it was popular among the kids. If you want hot lunch, send your kid with $6.00 cash. An adult will order their lunch, and the restaurant delivers to us directly. We eat lunch as a group at around 11.45 am. The kids are given 1 hour of lunch and play and sunshine.
Everything is provided – machines, fabric, patterns.
Kids may bring in old clothes to up-cycle. This may include denim jeans, collared mens shirts, old sheets, t-shirts ( ideal the coordinate and 3 t-shirts that do coordinate makes for a really cute dress) , sweatshirts, blouses, dresses , and their old clothes in general. etc. Mom and dads clothes work too of course I have clothes for upcycling, so it’s not mandatory, but they are predominantly black in color and kids like color. I have found, however, when the kids use their own clothes, garments that they once loved, and give it a second life, they get a real grasp as how to visualize and redesign their old clothes and make them new again. We have made some really amazing things. It’s a great reason to clean out those closets this spring!
If you want your child to learn on your home sewing machine, that is fine. Please make sure the machine and the foot are labeled with your name on it and telephone number. We will ask you to take the box home and bring it back on Friday when you pick up. Lastly, please make sure you have the peddle and that the machine works.
Masks currently are required inside the studio space and is optional for the outside. Hopefully by summer all mask regulations will be lifted. Safety for all is of great importance. We will work as much outside as possible, but the machines are inside. If the rules and advisory committees say differently, we will act accordingly. Safety first.
Students will have their own workspace – their own machine and their own set tools to use. We disinfect every night and use a UVC light to disinfect the air. The doors will be left open so that fresh air circulates. Disinfectant wipes and hand sanitizer are readily available in the studio.
When children arrive, we ask for the parents to check in at the door to mitigate and possible germ spreading. Again, safety first. You my text 650.346.1533 when you arrive and tell me your name and the child’s name and we will walk your child to your car. Parking isn’t difficult, but sometimes it gets a little congested. You can simply drive up to the red zone and we will walk your child to your car. The first day you may enter the space to check things out and finalize payment. If on Friday you have extended or morning care, please come into the studio to settle your bill.