Pattern Hacking & Frankenpatterning

DATE & TIME:

Thursday, September 3, 2026 — 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm

Don’t have a sewing machine? Contact our machine department to learn about class specials.

CLASSROOM COURTESY:

For the comfort of all students, please avoid wearing perfume, cologne, or heavily scented products when attending classes. Your consideration helps everyone have a safe and enjoyable experience.

SKILL LEVEL:

Intermediate — students should have made at least one garment and be familiar with basic garment construction techniques.

📋 SUPPLY LIST:

Click here to view the supply list

No machine needed for this session — just give the supply list a quick glance and come ready to explore ideas and possibilities.

About This Class

Have you ever found the perfect blouse pattern, only to wish it had a different sleeve? Or loved the bodice of one dress but preferred the skirt from another? This class explores the creative and technical process of modifying and combining patterns to achieve the exact garment you envision. “In this class, you'll learn the art of pattern hacking and frankenpatterning—the process of modifying and combining sewing patterns to achieve the exact look and fit you want.”

What We’ll Cover

We’ll explore how to identify compatible pattern pieces, blend design elements successfully, and maintain proper fit and balance while making changes. Topics include:

• Swapping sleeves, necklines, collars, and skirt styles
• Combining patterns from different designers
• Adding or removing design features
• Understanding patternmaking principles that ensure your garment sews up as imagined

“By the end of class, you'll have the confidence to look beyond the pattern envelope and see every pattern in your collection as a source of creative possibilities.”

Continue your learning:
Fit Without Fear
Knitting Skill Builder
Basics of Lace Knitting

Materials Included

• Classroom tools for demonstration
• Reference handouts (if provided by instructor)

Class Policies & Helpful Notes

Timing may vary slightly depending on student needs.

Class Cancellation Policy: To receive a refund or credit for a class, cancellation must occur 7 days prior to class date.

Help us keep this class on the calendar!
This class needs a minimum of 5 students to run. If we’re below that number one week before class, the session may be cancelled. Early registration makes a big difference.

Instructor

Janet Szabo
Janet is a lifelong maker, educator, and designer with deep expertise in garment construction, knitting, and creative problem‑solving. She brings a warm, encouraging teaching style shaped by decades of experience — from publishing books and producing her podcast The Straight Stitch to teaching nationally at Sew Expo and for guilds across the country. Her classes blend technical clarity with a supportive, confidence‑building approach that helps students grow their skills and enjoy the process of making.