FAQ
We put together a list of some of our frequently asked questions. You can always call the shop if you have a question that is not listed below!
Q: Why do you sell fabric by the ½ yard?
A: Most products cannot be sold online in quantities of less than one piece. Therefore, we have offered a way for you to purchase less than one yard by offering our fabrics by the half yard. It’s a little confusing so please remember to order based on ½ yard and we will cut your order all in one piece!
Q: Can I use my gift card online?
A: Yes! Simply use the code on the back of the card or in the email. If you have one of our previous paper gift cards, we are happy to honor it in store. Our gift cards do not expire.
Q: Do I have to buy materials for the classes I take?
A: For our beginning sewing classes materials are included in the class. For our guided sew and project-based classes you may need to bring materials, but that will be specified on the class description. However, sometimes you may want to purchase additional materials for the class, but you’ll get a 15% discount for any purchases you make while being a student at the-sew-op!
Q: Do I need to bring anything to class?
A: Usually no, although some of our workshop’s instructors request specific supplies and will send a supplies list. You will have plenty of notice and if you have any questions or don’t have something on the list just give us a call! When it comes to taking a “beginner sew”, “adult sew” or “kid sew” class, you don’t need to bring anything! We have machines here for students to use, as well as a desk full of essential sewing supplies.
Q: I have some sewing experience, but not enough to sew on my own. What kind of class should I take?
A: We recommend taking a “sew” class. Depending on your age, you will fall into “kid sew”, “teen sew” or “adult sew”. In this class you will make an apron and a tote bag. This course is for the intermediate. You have a general knowledge of sewing and know how to use a machine but aren’t comfortable to make something on your own just yet.
Q: I am an experienced sewist and would like some guidance finishing a project. Do you offer private lessons I can sign up for?
A: Unfortunately, we are not offering private lessons right now. Hopefully we will have more free studio time in the fall and can offer private lessons again! In the meantime, we recommend you sign up for a guided sew class. Guided sew is only for people who are comfortable sewing on their own!
Q: I want to take a workshop, but don’t know how to use a sewing machine on my own. Can I still sign up?
A: We ask that everyone who signs up for a workshop have previous sewing experience. These are not learn to sew classes. We base the class length around the students being able to sew independently. If you want to take a workshop and don’t have sewing experience, then sign up for one of our general sewing classes first and you can take the workshop after that!
Q: Do I need to know how to sew to take a quilting class?
A: Yes! Quilting requires a ¼” seam allowance so it is important that you are able to sew before taking any of our quilting classes, even the Beginner Quilting Series.
Q: My child is not yet 9 years old but has some sewing experience. Can they take a class?
A: We require all students to be 9 years old. Most students have not had fractions in school until that time although they may have had previous one on one sewing instruction.
Q: If I need to cancel a class, can I receive a refund?
A: Since our space is so limited, we offer a store credit for any classes cancelled up to one week before the first class. We do not offer refunds for any classes cancelled or no shows.
Q: Do you have a waitlist?
A: Yes! Our classes are small and fill up quickly. If your class is full, please add your name to our waitlist.
Q: Do you offer discounts for local schools/guilds/groups?
A: Yes! We offer a 15% discount to URI students, NBQA members, Ninigret members and RISN members. Please use your discount code at checkout! If you are unsure just give us a call and we will be happy to help. Don't forget, the-sew-op students get 15% off too!
We are happy to help, please call or contact us if you have any questions!