The You Can Make It 'Learn to Sew' program will progressively build sewing skills. With each Level building on the knowledge from the previous Levels.  Learning basic sewing skills in Level 1 and progressing to tailoring in Level 7.  ALL sewing skills are covered

Our program includes learning about all different types of fabrics and the many special features about each kind.

We also build alteration skills.  Level 2 starts with simple basic hip alterations and each subsequent Level builds on these alteration skills.  A perfect fit is a must!

Level One

Learn the basics: patterns (selection, choosing, sizing, understanding), guide sheets, tissues, fabric layouts, pinning, cutting, marking, sewing, hemming, & SEW MUCH MORE!

Level 1 Video: If you have no sewing experience or need a refresher, then Level 1 of the You Can Make It series is the one for you! A comprehensive guide for beginning sewers. Level 1 starts at the very beginning with buying your first sewing supplies and ends with the finishing touches on your garment. Your first project is a simple skirt. You will learn how to select fabric, read a pattern envelope, layout your fabric & pattern, how to cut, and how to mark your pattern. You will also learn how to interpret the pattern directions and sew each piece together. You won't believe how easy it is. You not only learn how to sew a skirt, but you also acquire new skills. You can apply those new skills to other simple sewing projects. Plus, you can build on your knowledge in future projects. ( 100 min.)

To see a video clip of what is covered in the Level 1 video, just click on the Level 1 video cassette.

Note: You will automatically be taken to your computer's video player to view. Your internet connection will determine how long this will take, please be patient if necessary.

Level Two

Level 2 Video: If you have beginning sewing experience - you are ready for the next step. Continue down the road to sewing success with the second video of the You Can Make It series. Build on the skills you learned in Level 1, plus learn a variety of new techniques. In Level 2 the skills you need to make a skirt with a zipper, back slit, darts and pleats are all shown in detail. Plus learn the basic "pivot and slide" fitting techniques. Have you always wanted to know the easy way to handle prints with one way designs? Level 2 will make it easy, in addition to enlightening you about the special features of print fabrics. Level 2 also includes a few "sewing bag skills." Learn how to make a sewing bag covered with samples of basic sewing techniques. The samples serve as a reference when you have questions. These skills include how to sew on a patch, make straps, apply Velcro® strips, sew on buttons, and hooks and applying snaps. (130 min.)

Level 3 Video: Take your sewing to the intermediate Level with Level 3 of the You Can Make It series. Packed with over 15 sewing techniques to help the intermediate sewer advance to the next Level. You'll find instructions for taking accurate measurements, making pattern adjustments, working with sheer fabrics, and much more. Whether you're sewing a basic garment or adding a little creative interest Level 3 video has something for you. Learning an array of basic techniques such as how to sew shoulder seams, apply a collar to a neckline, and construct neck and front facings. You are also instructed how to fit a sleeve cap, hem plain or ruffled sleeves, how to apply front closures, sew patch pockets, and hem your finished garment. Do you want to learn how to add a few decorative touches to your garment? Level 3 will teach you how to make simple round collars with inserted lace, applying lace edging to a collar, and gathering ruffles. Or, add extra special detailing with French seams and hand rolled hems. (150 min.)

Level 4 Video: Take a trip to the fabric store and choose a stylish jumper pattern and some striped or plaid fabric. Have some fun with Level 4 of the You Can Make It series. Then sew along as you learn the complete construction process, in addition to continuing to build on your sewing skills and fitting skills. Learn how to easily lay out the pattern so that your plaids and stripes match at the seam lines. Learn how to identify different types of stripes and plaids, and the special features associated with them. Then find out how to use the tape or pin method to construct your garment. Packed with special considerations when working with darts, pleats, and gathers with the stripes in your fabric. Learn about stitching elastic, matching plaid patch pockets to the pattern in your garment, and making your own bias tape and piping. (100 min.)

Level 5 Video: This is the one you have all been waiting for! You are ready for the most popular sewn garments, PANTS. Learn EVERYTHING you have ever wanted to know about pants. The You Can Make It Level 5 Video is PACKED with hints & techniques. You are sure to learn more than you ever imagined! Build your You Can Make It skills. Learn all about working with napped fabrics, how to do layouts, & the special sewing & handling of napped fabrics. Learn ALL alteration possibilities for a perfect pant fit. These are shown & covered in detail. Learn some new seam constructions which are especially designed for pants. Learn how to construct Lapped & Invisible Zippers, & when to use them, Pockets, Belt Carriers, Cuffs, Eyelets. If you want to learn how to construct pants, & have them fit well, then the You Can Make It Level 5 VIDEO is for you. (100 min.)

Level 6 Video: Time to fine tune & perfect your sewing and alteration skills. Learn everything about buttonholes, where to place them, how to adjust them for your personal measurements, and how to sew them. Learn how to insert and fit a set in sleeve with a smooth cap. Learn how to sew and insert pointed collars and collar bands. Learn how to construct professional looking sleeve plackets and cuffs. Finish off your garments with the easy tricks to a machine blind hem. Build on your alteration skills with sleeves, bust, and darts. Also learn all other types of closures such as loops, frogs, ball buttons. Sewing professional looking garments and achieving a perfect fit is easy with our You Can Make It Level 6 VIDEO. (105 min.)

Level 7 Video: Bring your sewing to the professional level. Learn everything about tailored jackets. The importance of a perfect fit, what determines a perfect fit, and how to achieve it. Easy up to date techniques for welt pockets and bound buttonholes, with each step shown & explained in full detail. Do you want to know the tricks for a truly perfect notched collar? Understand all there is to know about interfacing; the different types, when, where and how to add. We even teach you how to easily make your own interfacing pattern pieces. Learn how to add linings to jackets and other garments, along with some great short cuts for attaching linings If you think tailoring skills are difficult, we will change your mind with Level 7. (120min.)

If you can not view the video clips, your computer may not be set up to do so. The above mentioned CD will work on ANY computer as long as you have a CD Rom drive in your computer. (Note: Not available in floppy disk format)

Please Note: All licensed You Can Make It Teachers are equipped to teach ALL Seven Levels.

You may start and stop at any Level, but we hope to see you in all Seven Levels. This way You Can Make It!