We’re on a mission to make sewing sustainable & empowering

At Sewing Lab, we believe anyone can sew a brighter future by simply picking up a needle, and thread, and trying something new.

Our intimate classes teach beginner and intermediate sewing techniques while using 70% recycled or upcycled textiles. Our summer camps and classes not only teach children ages 8-18 how to sew, but our students learn the importance of sustainability and how they can be endlessly creative while reducing waste and their impact on the environment.

What makes Sewing Lab unique are the classes we offer. We are thrilled to have Boys Only Sewing Class, Weekend Sewing Bootcamp and Hand Sewing.

Adults and retirees can also harness the joy of sewing. They can bring friends and family to a Sip and Sew experience or make new friends in our small group adult classes and community events.

We’re based in Herndon, VA, and proudly offer discounted sewing classes to military families, first responders, and local teachers.

About Our Classes

About Janine

Hi, I’m Janine and I’m the founder and lead teacher at Sewing Lab. My aunt taught me to sew using a vintage treadle sewing machine at the age of 11 and I’ve loved the practice ever since.

I’ve been sewing since I was 11 years old and even taught as a special education teacher. During the Covid pandemic, I volunteered by making hundreds of handstitched masks for hospitals. Shortly after, I began crafting sustainable fashion designs for women inspired by books like "Overdressed" and "The Conscious Closet" by Elizabeth L. Cline.

I became an advocate for sustainable fashion. Armed with newfound knowledge, I launched my designs in 2021 at markets across D.C., Maryland, and Virginia while also teaching sewing classes at our church.

I created Sewing Lab with a mission of passing the skills that I learned over the years, from my aunt to fashion school to the future generation of sewers. I'd love to share how we can all contribute to sustainability in fashion. Come join us at Sewing Lab for classes and community events! Whether you're just starting or relearning the ropes, please know everyone is welcome. Let's make a difference together!