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2BEGINNER 
Beginner projects will introduce you to the basics of bag making. You'll learn to sew heavy-duty fabric, punch holes in fabric and leather, set metal rivets, and sew your first zipper!
Confident Beginner projects involve managing more pieces of fabric and leather. They'll teach you to add interior and exterior pockets and install new types of hardware, like snaps.
Intermediate projects involve a more in-depth making process. They'll teach you to work with a wider variety of tools and hardware techniques, like setting extra-strength tubular rivets.
Advanced projects are for experienced stitchers ready to invest a significant amount of time and energy into becoming a bag maker. Complex construction and seriously professionals results.
First up, Ellie will give you a thorough introduction to the sewing machine, demystifying all of its ins and outs, so you can begin making with confidence. You can use one of our machines or bring your own!
Learn to make the Woodland Dopp Kit, a boxy, waxed canvas zipper pouch, perfect for organizing your essentials while you're on the go. Learn to set rivets, attach leather, and sew your first zipper!
The Portsmith is several steps above your average market tote. This classic workhorse of a tote features water-resistant waxed canvas and sturdy leather straps. Complete with "I made this!" bragging rights.
First up, Ellie will give you a thorough introduction to the sewing machine, demystifying all of its ins and outs, so you can begin making with confidence. You can use one of our machines or bring your own!
Learn to make the Woodland Dopp Kit, a boxy, waxed canvas zipper pouch, perfect for organizing your essentials while you're on the go. Learn to set rivets, attach leather, and sew your first zipper!
The Portsmith is several steps above your average market tote. This classic workhorse of a tote features water-resistant waxed canvas and sturdy leather straps. Complete with "I made this!" bragging rights.
“Ellie Lum is probably the best bag making teacher you will find. Her spoken and written instructions and explanations are crystal clear, as are her patterns. She makes it possible to create something that you might otherwise have though was not possible for you.”
“I was one of the slower makers, but Ellie was so patient walking us through the whole process, especially the tricky bits. I love how she explains things, anticipates common mistakes, and helps you problem solve.”
“Great experience. I enjoyed every second and am much more confident in my abilities than I was going in. Total game changer.”
Waxed canvas is the original water-resistant fabric. It's a densely-woven cotton fabric that
has been saturated with wax, giving it an extra layer of protection. Waxed canvas shows scuffs, marks
and creases that blend into a weathered patina with age.
Our leather is sourced locally at Oregon Leather, as well as from a tannery in
Pennsylvania, and hand-selected for its quality. Our hides are cut into straps with a
hydraulic press to ensure precision and consistency. NOTE: Our tan leather might feel stiff at
first, but it will soften and darken to a lovely caramel brown with use.
Hardware can take a bag from looking homemade to truly professional—and it's not hard to
do! With a few basic tools, you'll be able to set rivets, snaps, magnetic closures and more. All of
our hardware is real metal and strong enough to hold up to years of wear and tear.
I really enjoyed this class! It was my first time sewing on a machine and throughout the class I kept pausing to overlook my project and wonder where I messed up. But with the step by step guidance throughout the class it was truly easy to follow along. Lots of support for those moments I did have questions and I really look forward to continuing on my sewing journey thanks to this class!
United StatesI'm very excited for our upcoming workshop. I, along with my 18 year old son and 15 year old daughter will be taking the class. It will be our first visit to Portland as well. Looking forward to it. xoxo, Gloria
