Interview with Valerie Salmon at A Sewing Studio

Valerie Salmon of A Sewing Studio lives in the USA. She has been sewing since she was very young and now runs a lively sewing studio where her weekly classes primarily focus on teaching students to make garments using machines.

What age are the kids you teach?

7-15 years

How long have you been teaching sewing for?

5 years

Can you tell me a little about yourself?

I have been a seamstress almost all my life. Learning at a young age from the tailors at our family’s tailoring shop, I developed an interest in fashion design. I was drafting sewing patterns & making evening gowns by the time I was in my early teens. Eventually, I transitioned into footwear design and was the sole line developer for an international footwear company located in San Francisco, CA.

When I first introduced sewing to my young daughter & one of her friends, it was evident that kids are eager to learn how to sew & have fun doing it. With many budding “fashionistas” out there, I wanted to share my knowledge with creative youngsters. It has been my most rewarding job!

Can you tell me about your sewing classes?

My sewing classes teach children a lifetime skill – not just projects. To keep sewing fun and enjoyable, I complement my program with original sewing projects that keep students asking for more. For me, designing projects is one of the best parts about owning & running a sewing school. Our sewing studio is lively and charming and is sure to inspire creativity for all. These fun and educational classes are among my students’ favorite activities.

Have you had any students you can tell me about whom learning to sew really benefited in some way?

I find that every student I teach is instantly hooked to the art of sewing.

I have had many students who have been with me for many years and they continue to grow and to develop their skills. Sewing is a self-esteem booster for these young seamstresses!  It allows them to be creative and gain confidence while learning a life skill that is useful.

Is there any tool, notion etc that you find particularly useful to use in your classes?

The seam ripper is a must-have tool. Mistakes do happen and I have many of them in class.