Sew Your Own Tote Bag In DC: 2-Hour Hands-On Sewing Workshop

Want to leave class with something you made from scratch? This beginner-friendly workshop will teach you how to sew your own fully-lined tote bag—perfect for everyday use or gifting. No experience needed!

Over the course of two hours, you'll get comfortable using a sewing machine, following a pattern, and working with durable fabrics to create a finished, functional project you can take home the same day.

Length: 2 hours

Cost: $80 per person

Materials Provided: All fabric, thread, and sewing machines included

Location: O Street Studios, 52 O St NW, 3rd Floor, Washington, DC 20001

✦ Intro to Machine Sewing Techniques You’ll get hands-on experience with straight stitches, seam allowances, backstitching, and topstitching—core skills that apply to any future sewing project.

✦ How to Follow a Simple Pattern We’ll guide you through the basic steps of following a paper pattern and constructing your bag piece by piece, from the body to the handles.

✦ Bag Construction Basics Learn how to create a clean, professional tote bag with sturdy straps and a strong lining that can hold books, groceries, or anything else you throw in.

✦ Fabric Prep & Finishing Touches Understand how to prep your fabric before sewing and how to finish your bag with a polished look using pressing and edge stitching.

Location & Accessibility

O Street Studios

52 O Street NW, 3rd Floor, Washington, DC 20001

• Located in the heart of Washington, DC
• Easily accessible by Metro: Take the Red Line to Noma-Gallaudet Station, walk down M Street, turn right on North Capitol, then left on O Street NW (approx. 10 minutes on foot)
• Elevator available for anyone with accessibility needs—please email in advance so we can coordinate third-floor access
• Nearby parking is limited to street parking and garage options at the REEVES Center or Union Market

Booking Info

The group classes listed below are offered throughout September 2025, with more dates coming in October. Space is limited to ensure personalized instruction—so please reserve early.

Upcoming October Classes in DC:

Introduction To Sewing | 10/1 (Wednesday) @ 6:30 PM

Introduction To Sewing | 10/8 (Wednesday) @ 6:30 PM

Introduction To Sewing | 10/15 (Wednesday) @ 6:30 PM

Introduction To Sewing | 10/18 (Saturday) @ 1 PM

Introduction To Sewing | 10/22 (Wednesday) @ 6:30 PM

Make Your Own Tote Bag | 10/29 (Wednesday) @ 6:30 PM

Group sessions are open for July, with more dates coming in August. Space is limited to ensure a quality experience for every student.

Want a more custom experience or prefer to work solo? Book a private sewing lesson at a public library or even your own home. I’ll bring the machine to you!

📅 Book now on Calendly

For accessibility coordination, private session requests, or group bookings:

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Also check out other Workshops in Washington.