General Questions

What is AnniePancake Sewing School?
We’re a creative, hands-on sewing school where sewists can learn, practice, and have fun. We specialize in students with no sewing experience.  Our goal is to make sewing approachable and enjoyable for everyone age 12 and up.  We offer classes at the studio for up to 4 students at a time.  We also offer a very limited number of private lessons to teach students how to use their personal machines, get over a stumbling block in a specific pattern, or learn a specific skill, like laying out pattern pieces on fabric for cutting.

Do I need any sewing experience to take a class?
Not at all! Please sign up for an Absolute Beginner class.  We’ll guide you step by step so you feel confident and supported.

Where are you located?
Our backyard studio is located in Larkspur, California within walking distance of downtown Larkspur and old town Corte Madera.  Hall Middle School and Redwood High are a 20 minute walk. 

Classes and Scheduling

How do I sign up for a class?
Choose your preferred class that corresponds to your or your child’s skill level and age group, and then click on the class photo for the detailed class description and booking link. Spaces are limited, so we recommend signing up early.  If you don’t see a class offered or the day/time doesn’t work, please email us.  We can usually put another class on the calendar.

What should I bring to class?
We provide all materials for Absolute Beginner and Beginner classes, including the use of a sewing machine. If a class requires that you purchase additional materials, or there’s the option to bring your own fabric, it will be specified in the class description, which can be accessed by going to the webpage with the classes list for the appropriate age group and then clicking on the photo.  That will take you to a detailed class description and a booking link.

Are sewing machines provided, or do I need my own?
We provide the use of a machine, and do not permit students to bring their own machines to Absolute Beginner classes. Students may bring their own machines to Beginner classes and beyond only if it includes a walking foot and the student knows how to thread it, change the needle, wind/change the bobbin, select a stitch, change the foot, and adjust tension. Email us if you’d like to schedule a 90-minute private lesson to learn how to use your personal machine.

Do you allow kids younger than 12 to join classes?
Our classes are open to kids 12+ and adults. We do not offer classes for sewists younger than 12, even if their parents are in attendance.  For everyone’s comfort, our classes are sorted by age group.  If there’s an adult class that you’d like to take, and you’re under 18, let us know and we’ll try to accommodate your interest.

What types of classes do you offer?
We offer Absolute Beginner, Beginner, Advanced Beginner, and Intermediate level classes, and a limited number of private lessons to help students get comfortable using their personal machines or other specific instruction. We welcome suggestions for new classes. 

How long is each class or course?  What happens if the student finishes early?
They vary, but most classes are 3 hours.  3 hours is the time required for a full class of 4 students to complete their project with a significant level of personal attention.  Should adult or teen students finish early, they are welcome to leave or stick around for the full 3 hours to discuss sewing topics with the instructor or browse the many sewing books in our collection, but we will not begin a different project or learn a new skill.  Tweens are expected to stay the full 3 hours unless their parent or guardian has advised us ahead of time. Some classes are longer, or even multiple sessions on separate days, and it is explained during the booking process.

Do you offer private lessons?
We offer 90-minute private lessons for $150 to help students learn to use their personal sewing machines, get over an assembly hump with a specific project, or learn a specific skill, like laying out pattern pieces on fabric and cutting.  We do not offer general lessons like “basic alterations” or “zippers” because we find it leaves too much room for miscommunication around content, which can be frustrating for both student and instructor.

Is there a waitlist for fully booked classes?
No, but this may change depending on demand.  For now, please check back often, especially a couple of days before class for spots that may have reopened.

Pricing and Payment

How much do classes cost?
Prices vary by class length and materials included. The booking link for each class has detailed pricing information.  

What payment methods do you accept and do we need to pay in advance?
We accept all major credit cards and online payments.  Full payment is required in advance to secure your spot, which is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.  

Do you offer gift certificates?
Yes! A sewing class makes a wonderful gift. Gift certificates can be purchased on our website.

Are fabrics and supplies included in the class fee?
Absolute Beginner and Beginner level classes include all supplies. For other classes, please read the class description on the website. 

What is your cancellation or refund policy?
We understand that plans change. Cancellations made 48 hours before class may be rescheduled or refunded.  No refunds or credits will be issued for cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance, unless we are able to fill the spot at the last minute.  However, we do permit you to transfer your spot 1 time to another person for each paid spot.  If the school cancels a class, students will receive a full refund.

Safety and Conduct

What safety measures are in place for students?
We provide a safe, supervised environment and teach proper use of machines and tools.  That being said, machine sewing requires working with sharp and hot items, and accidents do happen, which is why we require students or their legal guardians to accept the terms of a  liability waiver when registering for a class. Students must follow all safety instructions when using sewing machines, scissors, irons, and other equipment.  The school reserves the right to dismiss any student who engages in unsafe, disruptive, or disrespectful behavior, without refund. 

What happens if I am late to class?
Please arrive on time, or even a few minutes early.  Classes will begin on time, and class time will not be extended for late arrivals.  If you arrive more than 15 minutes late, we will not be able to accommodate you in the workshop.

What happens if I arrive early to class?  Is there a place to wait for class to start?
Students are welcome to sit at the table inside the gate to Annie’s backyard or in one of the chairs outside the studio for up to 30 minutes before class.  If it’s raining heavily, students will be permitted to come inside the studio up to 10 minutes before class.

Will my photo be taken?
The school may take photos or videos during classes for marketing purposes.  If you do not wish to be photographed, please notify us in writing before the class.

Will I automatically be added to the quarterly newsletter distribution?
Yes, but you can unsubscribe to be removed from the list.

Are there rules around reproducing materials and/or patterns received in class?
All class handouts, patterns, and instructional materials are for personal use only and may not be reproduced, sold, or distributed without permission. 

Other

Is there a bathroom?
There is a bathroom available for student use inside the studio.