What is the DC Threads Sewing Lounge?
DC Threads Sewing Lounge is a free program held from 10am-1pm on the second Saturday of every month at the Bits of Thread Sewing Studio in Washington, DC. The Lounge provides an opportunity for anyone interested in sewing—from the complete beginner to the seasoned expert—to share sewing tips, learn new techniques, and even work on projects together with sewing machines available on-site. At each session, you have had an opportunity to meet others who share your interests, try new projects, or get practical advice on something you’re already working on.
Sewing addicts Laura Lee and Allison Lince-Bentley founded in 2008 through a partnership with the DC Department of Parks and Recreation and with support from the Greater Washington Fashion Chamber of Commerce. Now we are also an official Neighborhood Group of the American Sewing Guild. For two years, we operated the lounge from the North Michigan Park Recreation Center while we worked to find a permanent long-term home. That dream became a reality in 2010, when opened the Bits of Thread Sewing Studio, where the lounge sessions will now take place.
Do I Need to Reserve a Spot to Attend?
Yes. We have a limited amount of space and sewing machines, and because this is a totally free program, there is a lot of demand. To reserve a spot, visit our RSVP page. If the available spots are full, be sure to add yourself to the waiting list.
When and Where is the DC Threads Sewing Lounge?
Sessions are held on the second Saturday of each month at the Bits of Thread Sewing Studio. Detailed directions can be found on the Bits of Thread website by clicking here.
What is the Sewing Lounge Schedule?
The lounge takes place from 10am-1pm. If you are a first-time sewer, it is essential that you arrive as close to the start time (10am) as possible so that you can participate in a starter tutorial. For all other levels, you can come any time during the lounge sessions to work on a project you have brought with you, or try something new. Sewing machines are not guaranteed, so the best way to ensure that you have a machine to work on is to bring your own. Check out our patterns pages with projects and instructions from our sessions.
What do I need to bring?
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As mentioned above, we have 14 sewing machines and one serger available for general use, but you are also welcome to bring your personal machine as well. In fact, it’s a good idea, since we can’t reserve a machine for you or guarantee that one will be available.
Who Can Attend? Are beginners welcome?
Anyone of any age is welcome. Complete beginners (even those who have never touched a sewing machine before) are also welcome and encouraged to attend, but we advise coming at the start of the session to be able to participate in a tutorial. We have volunteers available at every lounge who can show you how to safely and fearlessly use our machines or one you have brought yourself. The sewing lounge is a great way to start sewing for the very first time or get back into it if you’ve been away from the craft for a while.
What does it cost?
Sessions are FREE, but participants must bring their own fabric and other special materials for a project.
How can I support this program?
This high-quality program is provided completely free of charge to our participants, thanks to the work of our great team of volunteers and supporters. There is a lot of behind-the-scenes work that makes this program possible, so if you appreciate what we do and would like to be part of the inside action, see our Help Out pages.
Have questions not answered here? Contact us and we’ll do our best to help!
