Date/Time: September 13, 2025, at 11 AM EST
6-hour class
Cost: $50.00
Sign up deadline: August 15th

Description: Designing and making a coat
Level: Beginning, Intermediate and Advanced
Sewing Machine used: Yes

In this workshop, students will create a coat that will “speak” for them. Using a traditional or contemporary pattern: participants are encouraged to explore personal inspirations to create a one-of-a-kind garment. Their garment is designed to reflect their personality or ethnicity, create a mood, make social or political statements, or express humor. They will delve into the process of working from an idea to a finished piece. In the class, garment design, piecing, and embellishment techniques are explored. Students will initially focus on garment design, fabric selection and layout. Rachel will work with students to complete the design phase and then move on to the construction of a garment. Students are encouraged to work at their own pace with input from Rachel throughout the process.

NOTE: PRESHRINK ALL FABRICS

Supply List:

• A basic coat pattern that fits you.

• 12-20 print or solid fabrics (you are welcome to bring more) in 1/4 - 3/4-yard

  pieces

• Base fabric (muslin or flannel) in amount of fabric required by your pattern

• Lining for garment

• Embellishments to enhance your garment

• Iron

• Basic sewing kit

• Pens and pencils

• Note pad or writing paper

• Pattern or examination table paper

• Rotary cutter and board

• Omnigrid or Quilter’s ruler

• Tape

• Sense of adventure and humor!

Rachel D.K. Clark is a contemporary folk artist, teacher, and lecturer who comes from a long line of sewers. Growing up in Tallulah, LA, Rachel learned quilting early in life from her mother and grandmother. She has been creating wearable art since 1973 and teaching on the national circuit since 1990. Eclectic fabric mixes, vibrant designs, and a keen sense of humor characterize Rachel’s work. Her garments embody her dynamic personality and deep-rooted passion for storytelling through fabric art, weaving history, humor, and powerful social commentary into every garment.