DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — A hands-on sewing class in Decatur is helping residents pick up a new skill many say they never thought they’d master.
Sewing classes are now enrolling, but filling up fast, at The INC.Spot. The classes offered are beginner and project-based, for people of all ages and experience levels. The classes are led by Brianna Durr, owner of The Sewing Circle, who started the program after noticing a gap in accessible sewing education in Central Illinois.
“I started the classes because I saw that there was a need for it in central Decatur,” Durr said. “We don’t have sewing in the high schools anymore, and that’s actually where I learned. I wanted to bring it back into Decatur and thread generations together.”
Beginner sewing classes are designed for those who have never touched a sewing machine or who need a refresher. The two-day sessions walk students through sewing machine basics, threading, winding a bobbin, sewing zippers and working with interfacing. By the end of the class, students complete two projects: a zipper pouch and a tote bag.
Stephanie King, a student in the class, said she signed up after seeing the opportunity on Facebook and realizing how often her clothes needed altering.
“Everything I order has been coming where it needs to be tailored or at least hemmed up,” King said. “I thought this would save me money and be more convenient if I knew how to sew myself.”
King said her last sewing experience was in junior high, decades ago, and an attempt to relearn during the COVID-19 pandemic ended in frustration. This time, she said, the hands-on instruction made the difference.
“Brianna is really patient,” King said. “She goes at our pace, and I know more today than I did a couple of days ago. It’s really nice to have somebody you can ask for help.”
Beyond practical skills, King said the class offered something unexpected, a break from constant screen time.
“I wanted to stay off the internet a little bit, stop doomscrolling and do something productive,” she said. “You actually see a tangible result.”
Durr said that sense of accomplishment is one of the most rewarding parts of teaching.
“I love to see people finish their projects,” she said. “They create something from start to finish, and everybody smiles. It’s a great feeling.”
Students are encouraged to bring their own sewing machines so they can learn on equipment they’ll use at home, but machines are also available to rent for $20. All other materials are included, and class sizes are limited.
Durr said to follow along with her Facebook page to learn about upcoming classes. To enroll in the beginner class, click here.
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