Looking for a creative summer activity that’s hands-on, practical, and actually fun? In this beginner-friendly, 3-day sewing course, teens will learn how to use a sewing machine while creating their very own custom fashion accessories to take home. Over three days, students will craft a stylish Japanese Knot Bag and a trendy Bucket Hat. Throughout the course, students can personalize their projects with unique fabric choices, contrasting linings, and decorative stitching to create one-of-a-kind handmade accessories.
With a super small class size and plenty of one-on-one guidance from expert instructor Vanessa of Ronkita Design, this course is designed to help new sewists build confidence in a relaxed, supportive environment. Please note: Registration covers attendance for all three sessions.
✨ What Your Teen Will Do
Learn the basics of using a sewing machine safely and confidently.
Practice structured sewing techniques, straight stitching, fabric handling, and finishing seams.
Project 1: Japanese Knot Bag – A stylish fabric bag featuring a unique loop-through closure that is perfect for carrying everyday essentials or creative supplies.
Project 2: Bucket Hat – A bucket hat that combines fashion and function while learning structured sewing techniques.
Build creative confidence while learning a skill you can continue at home or as a member of Make at Rosie
🧵 Materials & Pricing Options
$235: BYO (Bring your own) fabric (see bottom of page)
$270: All fabric and notions will be provided for you.
Sewing machines and all necessary sewing tools are ready to use on-site for all students.
Step-by-step instruction and hands-on guidance throughout the entire camp.
No prior experience required: true beginners are welcome!
👥 Who Can Join?
Ages 13–18
Perfect for beginner sewists and creative teens.
Great for students interested in fashion, crafting, cosplay, or learning practical maker skills.
🧃 Schedule & Details
Dates: June 22–24 (3-day camp)
Time: 9:00am – 12:00pm daily
Drop-off workshop held at Make at Rosie — air-conditioned with free parking.
Class Size: Minimum of 3 students required for the camp to make; strictly capped at a maximum of 5 students to ensure plenty of personalized attention.
More details available at the Ronkita Designs Website
🌈 Why Join?
This course is all about creativity, confidence, and learning by making. Students will leave with two handmade, functional accessories they can actually wear, plus foundational sewing skills they can build on for future projects.
This sewing course helps teens develop practical sewing skills, creative confidence, and foundational construction techniques through engaging hands-on projects.
Learning sewing machine basics and operation
Building confidence through guided sewing practice
Completing multiple beginner-friendly sewing projects
Developing foundational accessory sewing skills
Practicing measuring, cutting, pinning, and pressing techniques
Learning how to read and follow sewing patterns
Improving creativity and problem-solving abilities
Creating wearable and functional handmade projects
Developing fine motor skills and attention to detail
Gaining lifelong sewing and DIY skills
Reserve a spot today and stitch up something awesome this summer!
🌸 About Your Instructor
Vanessa of Ronkita Design has over 20 years of experience teaching sewing to kids and adults of all skill levels. She teaches locally in Austin and virtually nationwide, is a sewing instructor at Austin Community College, and serves on the Fashion Design Advisory Committee. A full-time designer and seamstress, Vanessa works across fashion, adaptable clothing, wearable tech, decor, and accessories. She also speaks conversational Spanish, French, and Ukrainian, creating a welcoming learning environment for students from all backgrounds.
Note: If you choose to bring your own materials, these are the fabric and notions requirements for each project:
Japanese Knot Bag: Non-stretch cotton fabric:
½ yard for outer
½ yard for inner lining
Bucket Hat: Non-stretch cotton fabric:
½ yard for outer
½ yard for inner lining