Brian K’s Practical Skills Workshops Series: Unlocking the Secrets of Sewing Denim II (Workshop 1)
***This is a 4 part series - it is mandatory to attend all 4 workshops, registration links to workshops 2-4 can be found in the Fashion Zone Events Calendar***
WORKSHOP #1 - Introduction, Sewing the neck straps, waistband, skirt and bib prep, and Keyhole buttonholes
Date:September 15, 2026
Workshop Time: 5:00pm - 7:00pm EST
Location: CUI 312
Format: Lab
Participant # (max): 10 - 15 ppl
Material Fee: $20 (one time fee for all 4 sessions, cash will be collected during workshop 1)
Objective(s): Introduction to Denim; gain a foundational understanding of denim as a fabric, its properties, and why it requires specific techniques for sewing.
Overview of Fashion Zone's Sewing Machines. After a discussion about thread and needle selection, we will learn how to adjust an industrial lockstitch to handle bulkier fabric and heavier thread.
Mastering Pressing Skills. Careful pressing of the neck strap will go a long way to improving the final outcome. After a nifty technique to press a uniform crease we will learn how to use a pressing template to ensure that the neck strap is straight and even.The sides of the bib We will use a similar technique during next week's pocket prep so pay attention!
Finishing the neck strap requires even topstitching with contrast thread. We will learn how to use a compensating presser foot to achieve excellent results.
Keyhole Buttonholes. After a demonstration of the safe use of the Reece Keyhole machine (including how to emergency stop) we will make the 7 buttonholes that this project requires.
By the end of this session, students will have the confidence to press denim fabric, understand basic topstitching techniques, have made their first keyhole buttonholes and be well on their way to making their own denim shop apron.
The material fee includes:
Denim fabric
Thread
Equipment
If you are a TMU student who requires workshop hours, these workshops can be used to fulfill those requirements. Your workshop sheet will be signed at the fourth and final workshop.
Please note that you must attend all four workshops to receive credit.
Please contact the event organizers at fashionzone@torontomu.ca if you have any questions!