Sewing with Knits: Activewear + Swim // 4 Weeks // Starts May 31

Make pieces you’ll actually want to live in this summer.

Ready to stop settling for activewear that almost fits?

In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn how to sew high-performance stretch garments—from leggings and sports bras to fully lined swimsuits—using professional techniques that give your pieces that ready-to-wear (but better) finish.

Whether you're heading to yoga, chasing kids, or packing for a beach day, you’ll walk away with custom-fit pieces you made yourself—and the skills to keep making more.

Choose Your Project

Pick what you’re most excited to wear—activewear or swim (or a mix!):

Activewear Options

• Seamwork Tino Leggings. Available in sizes 0-26. The Tino features a high rise, wide waistband, gusset, and side panels with POCKETS!
  
• Seamwork Aires Leggings. Available in sizes XS-3XL. Medium rise, apri-length, fitted athletic tights with gusset feature curved style lines, perfect for color blocking.
• Mandex by Greenstyle. Men's fit in sizes S-XXXL
• Sophie Hines Axis Tank. 30-50" bust. This is an unlined cropped tank bralette with fabric bands instead of elastic. Scoop or high neck options. Use as a sports bra or a cute layering piece under oversized sweaters.

Swimwear Options

• Cottlesloe Swimsuit by Megan Nielsen: one-piece or two-piece, low or high waist and low or high back. Available in sizes 0-20 and 14-30.
• Vernazza Two-Piece by Friday Pattern Company: two piece, with tank straps, tie front, and high-waisted bottoms. Available in sizes XS to 4X.
• Faye Swimsuit by Closet Core Patterns: minimalist design one-piece or two piece, high-rise or low-rise bottoms, straight straps or strappy back with supportive underbust band.
• Sunstar Swimsuit by Helen's Closet: a comfy faux-wrap style top with high-waisted bottoms or one piece.
• Harrington Swimsuit by Seamwork: A simple swim shorts design to wear at the pool or beach bar.

(You’ll choose your pattern before class—we’ll guide you!)

What You’ll Learn

• How to confidently sew with spandex, Lycra, and performance knits
• Cutting and handling stretch fabrics (no more slipping + frustration)
• Attaching elastic + fabric bands for a secure, professional fit
• Sewing gussets, waistbands, and lined garments
• Topstitching + finishing techniques that make your pieces look store-bought

Why This Class Is Different

This isn’t just about one project—it’s about unlocking a whole new category of sewing.

Once you learn these techniques, you can make:

• Workout sets that actually fit your body
• Swimsuits you feel amazing in
• Everyday basics you’ll reach for on repeat

Skill Level

Intermediate to Advanced
You should already feel comfortable:

• Using a sewing machine
• Sewing at an accurate seam allowance
• Cutting fabric and completing at least one garment

(Sewing with stretch fabrics requires a bit of finesse—but we’ll guide you every step of the way.)

Materials

Patterns and materials are not included.
You’ll receive a detailed supply list after registration with guidance on:

• Pattern selection
• Fabric recommendations
• Notions + prep

*Butcher's Sew Shop students receive a special discount at EOS Fabrics online. Code will be sent in the materials list upon purchase of class.

4 Weeks; 12 class hours

Please refer to our registration policies before signing up for a class. 

Section 1: Sundays 5-8pm on May 31, June 7, 14, & 21

*Photos courtesy of Megan Nielsen, Friday Pattern Company, Closet Core Patterns, Helen's Closet Patterns, Katie Nocella, Sophie Hines and Seamwork.