Joann Fabrics Sewing Classes: Learn to Sew Like a Pro Guide

Learning to sew opens up a world of creative possibilities—from fixing torn clothes to making custom curtains or even designing your own garments. JOANN Fabrics used to offer hands-on sewing instruction in stores across the country, helping thousands of beginners learn their machines and feel confident with fabric.

With JOANN stores now closed, many people are looking for good sewing classes again. The good news? You now have more options than ever before. Online sewing classes, local workshops, and craft stores like Michaels all provide step-by-step learning for beginners and advanced users.

This guide shows you where to find sewing classes today, how much they cost, and how to pick the best option for your level. You can also explore more beginner tutorials in our sewing guides section.

What JOANN Sewing Classes Used to Offer

JOANN’s in-store sewing classes created a friendly space where beginners could try machines, ask questions, and get help right away.

The Old JOANN Class Structure

Beginner sewing classes focused on basics:

• How to thread a sewing machine correctly
• Winding and loading a bobbin
• Straight stitch and zigzag stitch
• Using different presser feet
• Reading simple sewing patterns
• Practicing on scrap fabric first

Intermediate classes helped build skills:

• Reading patterns for clothes
• Learning fabric types and how they behave
• Zipper sewing techniques
• Making buttonholes
• Basic clothing projects
• Home decor sewing

Advanced workshops included:

• Quilting basics
• Making fitted clothes
• Working with tricky fabrics
• Clean finishing techniques

Classes usually lasted 2–4 hours and cost $20–$40. Materials were included, and machines were provided, so beginners didn’t need to bring anything.

Why JOANN Classes Worked Well

Hands-on learning made everything easier. Instructors showed each step on real machines, then students practiced right away. If something went wrong, help was there instantly.

Small classes (6–10 people) meant more personal help. Teachers could guide you on machines like Brother sewing machine or fix issues on a Singer sewing machine.

Shopping in-store also helped. After class, you could buy fabric, thread, and tools before going home.

Where to Take Sewing Classes Now (2026 Options)

Even though JOANN closed, there are still many ways to learn sewing today.

Michaels Sewing Classes & Craft Workshops

Michaels is the closest alternative for in-person sewing classes, though options are a bit limited. They also carry essential sewing machine accessories you’ll need for your first projects

What Michaels Offers:

• Beginner machine classes (2–3 hours)
• Simple projects like pillows and bags
• Some intermediate workshops
• Online craft classes

Advantages:

• In-person learning
• Machines usually included
• Small groups
• Materials often included

• Limitations:

Fewer advanced sewing classes
More focus on general crafts
Smaller sewing section
Not all stores offer sewing classes

Cost: $25–$50 per class

How to Find: Visit the Michaels website or call your local store and ask about sewing classes.

Online Sewing Classes: The Most Flexible Option

Online sewing classes are now very popular. You can learn at home and watch lessons again anytime.

Top Platforms:

Craftsy:

• 300+ sewing courses
• Beginner to advanced
• $20–$80 per course
• Step-by-step lessons

Skillshare:

• Subscription model
• Many sewing classes included
• Great for trying new skills

Udemy:

• Pay per course
• Lifetime access
• Beginner courses from $20

YouTube (Free):

• Thousands of tutorials
• Great for quick help
• No structured path

CreativeLive:

• Live and recorded workshops
• High-quality lessons
• Covers special topics

Local Sewing Classes: Shops & Community Centers

Local places often offer hands-on sewing classes similar to JOANN.

Where to Look:

Fabric stores:

• Call local shops for schedules
• Beginner and project classes
• $30–$60 per class

Quilting shops:

• Focus on quilting and basics
• Friendly learning environment

Community centers:

• Affordable classes ($15–$40)
• Local instructors

Adult education:

• 6–8 week courses
• $50–$150 total

• Private teachers:

Search online for local lessons
One-on-one help
$40–$80 per hour

Comparing Your Class Options

Option	Cost	Hands-On?	Convenience	Best For
Michaels Classes	$25–$50	Yes	Must travel, fixed schedule	Beginners wanting in-person guidance
Online Courses (Craftsy)	$20–$80 each	No	Learn anytime, unlimited rewatch	Self-motivated learners, specific skills
Skillshare / Udemy	$15–$168	No	Very flexible	Exploring different techniques
YouTube	Free	No	Watch anytime	Supplementing other learning
Local Fabric Shops	$30–$60	Yes	Must travel, small groups	Hands-on learners, community connection
Private Lessons	$40–$80/hour	Yes	Flexible scheduling	Personalized instruction, specific projects

Choosing the Right Sewing Class for Your Skill Level

Pick a class that matches your current skill level. Starting too advanced can make learning frustrating.

Complete Beginners: Start Here

If you’ve never used a sewing machine before or only tried a few simple projects in the past, you need to learn the basics first. Start with easy projects using simple fabrics like cotton fleece, or felt and follow the steps below.

Look for classes teaching:

• Machine basics
• Threading and bobbin use
• Straight stitching
• Simple projects
• Basic patterns

Best option: In-person classes or beginner online courses.

First projects:

• Cloth napkins
• Tote bags
• Simple skirts
• Pillow covers

Intermediate Sewers: Building Skills

You’ve finished 3–5 simple projects and are now ready to move on to more detailed sewing, like working with upholstery fabrics or making fitted clothes

Look for:

• Pattern reading
• Different fabric types
• Zippers
• Buttonholes
• Clothing fitting

Best option: Mix online and in-person learning.

Projects:

• Dresses or skirts
• Quilted items
• Lined bags
• Pajamas
• Curtains

Advanced Sewers: Mastering Skills

If you sew often, focus on expert techniques.

Look for:

• Pattern drafting
• Tailoring
• Difficult fabrics
• Advanced quilting
• Special projects

Best option: Advanced online courses or workshops.

What You Need Before Your First Sewing Class

For In-Person Classes (Michaels, Local Shops)

You’ll need basic sewing supplies and fabric for your project. This sewing machine accessories guide explains which presser feet, needles, and cutting tools beginners should get first. For simple or natural-style projects, you can also try burlap fabric, as it’s easy to handle for beginners.

Usually included:

• Sewing machine
• Basic tools
• Thread and practice fabric

You may need:

• Notebook
• Project fabric
• Basic supplies

Always confirm before class.

For Online Classes

You’ll need:

• A sewing machine
• Basic tools (scissors, pins, tape)
• Fabric
• Good lighting
• Device to watch lessons

Helpful extras:

• Second screen
• Printer
• Notebook

How Much Do Sewing Classes Cost in 2026

Knowing prices helps you plan better.

Money-Saving Tips:

• Start with free YouTube videos
• Wait for course discounts
• Share subscriptions
• Use library resources

Buy course + machine bundles if starting completely fresh

Learn Sewing Without JOANN: Your Action Plan

Week 1–2: Learn Your Machine

Goal: Understand your sewing machine completely. This JOANN sewing machines guide explains beginner-friendly options and which features are most important.

Resources:

• Watch YouTube videos
• Take beginner courses on Skillshare
• Practice threading and stitching

Practice:

• Sew on paper
• Use scrap fabric
• Try different stitches

Week 3–4: First Projects

Goal: Finish 2 to 3simple items.

Take a class:

• Michaels beginner class
• OR course on Craftsy
• OR YouTube tutorials

Projects:

• Napkins
• Pillowcase
• Drawstring bag

Month 2: Build Confidence

Goal: Learn patterns and fabrics.

Classes:

• Pattern reading
• Local workshops

Projects:

• Tote bag
• Elastic skirt
• Zipper pouch

Month 3+: Improve Skills

Goal: Try harder projects & new techniques.

Keep learning through:

• Online courses
• Local classes
• Sewing groups

Sewing Class Alternatives: Other Ways to Learn

There are more ways to learn besides formal classes.

Sewing boxes:

Monthly boxes like SewBunny or Seamwork Magazine include:

• New pattern each month
• Easy step-by-step instructions
• Community forum for questions
• $15–$25/month

Great for people who like learning on their own but still want structure and new project ideas

Virtual Sewing Circles

Online groups meet on Zoom to sew together:

• Get help in real time when you’re stuck
• Makes sewing more social and less boring
• Usually free or low cost
• Search on Facebook for “virtual sewing circle” + your time zone

Pattern Company Tutorials

Many pattern brands offer free step-by-step guides:

• Blog posts or video tutorials
• Uses their own sewing patterns
• Community hashtags to see others’ work
• Tilly and the Buttons, Grainline Studio, and Closet Core are popular for this

Sewing Challenges

Monthly or seasonal challenges help you improve faster:

• Me-Made-May: Wear something you made every day in May
• Sew Your Own Wardrobe: Build your own clothing collection step by step
• Quilt Alongs: Sew the same quilt pattern with others and learn together

Comparing Michaels Sewing Classes to the Old JOANN Format

What’s Similar

• Small classes
• Hands-on learning
• Machines provided
• Materials included
• In-class help

What’s Better at Michaels

• Discounts and rewards
• More craft variety

What JOANN Did Better

• More sewing classes
• Better machine selection
• More advanced workshops
• Dedicated spaces

The truth: Michaels covers about 60% of what JOANN offered. For the rest, use online or local options.

How to Get the Most from Online Sewing Classes

Online sewing works well if you follow the right steps.

Set Up Your Learning Space

You need:

• Sewing machine on a stable table
• Computer or tablet placed where you can watch while sewing
• Good overhead lighting to avoid eye strain
• Enough space to spread out your fabric
• All your tools and supplies within easy reach

Take notes:

• Measurements
• Tips
• Observations

Join communities:

• Ask questions
• Share progress
• Stay motivated

Practice right away:

Don’t watch 5 lessons back to back. Learn one technique, then practice it before moving on. Sewing takes practice—watching helps, but doing is what really builds your skills.

Rewatch lessons:

Unlike in-person classes, you can rewind anytime. If sewing a zipper doesn’t make sense the first time, watch it again. And again. That’s the benefit of online learning—you can learn at your own pace.

Frequently Asked Questions