Hi everyone! It's Charissa, here with some shop and studio updates for you today. First up, new merch is in the store! We have office supplies that will cheer up even the drabbest cubicle (including the bear and bunny sticky tabs above). We also received some new mousepads from Poketo, below. I like the pine trees - what about you?

Next, a few updates to our sewing lessons. we're pleased to be offering a new project for our Pattern Reading class. Learn how to read a commercial pattern and sew this beautiful kimono-style wrap at the same time.

Finally, to make room for our new classes, this is the LAST MONTH we are offering the Leather Clutch class. This is an amazing opportunity to learn how to work with leather, and there are just 2 classes left. If you've been thinking about this class but haven't signed up yet, jump on it!

Currently head-over-heels over Satsuki Shibuya's silkscreened goods. So charming and perfect for brightening up your everyday life.

Most people in our Silkscreening classes print onto the t-shirts that are included in the silkscreening class fee, but seeing Satsuki's work makes me want to bring in a big piece of linen to print on! Imagine what you could make...tea towels, cloth napkins, a cute accent pillow for your living room. Love it. Most people aren't familiar with the process of silkscreening, but we're more than happy to answer your questions if these beautiful pieces are inspiring you to try yourself! You can also see my post here to observe one of our silkscreening classes in action.

{Images of Satsuki Shibuya and her work by Dabito of Old Brand New}

Here are some happy sewists after completing our last class! Love their fabric choices - as you can see, you're welcome to mix and match. Find the details for this class here.

Students learn to make a fully-lined zippered clutch.

Prepping the materials.

A happy Renee.

Look what you made!!

Come by to see a sample of the clutch or browse the selection of ready-made clutches for sale! And as always, we'd love to answer any questions you have.

The students had lots of felt to choose from, including felted wool and cashmere sweaters.

A returning student and her beautiful work in progress. She sweetly gave the class to her friend and sister-in-law as Christmas gifts.

Love it. What a great way to spend time together.

Ladies, thank you for a wonderful time this afternoon. Hope you enjoy hanging your ornaments on the tree tonight!

You can check out Jin's apron tutorial video here. Need more help? We'd love to lead you through the process in person!

We're proud to have some beautiful sewing patterns in the store, all made by independent designers. While we enjoy using patterns from the big companies (Butterick, Simplicity, etc), sometimes it's hard to find a  pattern that really suits you. Luckily, you've got options!

Figgy's Patterns makes modern patterns for kids, with unique details like the seaming and pockets on their Sunki Dress (above). Could someone make this in my size, please?

Portland-based Colette makes vintage-inspired patterns for sophisticated women and stylish men. Can you believe that the Jasmine blouse (above) is a beginner pattern?

Oliver + S offers classic, detail-rich patterns for both boys and girls. Check out this adorable Birthday Party Dress - this would be an amazing present for a daughter or niece!

A parting shot of our new patterns section. Have a great day!

I (Charissa) came to work this morning and was greeted by a beautiful new window display by Renee. We're all dressed up for the holidays now! Here are a few shots before I leave for the night.

We also wanted to take a moment to thank you for your support! Whether it's spreading the word about Common Thread Studio, taking a class, or buying a gift at our shop - it means the world to us. Your patronage directly supports our creative and hardworking staff, and we feel blessed to be able to do what we love. Thank you!

{Image by Michael Martine}

In the past 2 1/2 years of teaching classes, one common factor is that most people have difficult time reading or understanding pattern instructions--which is why we offer that as a class too! This tutorial is short, simple and most importantly a visual supplement to the written instructions so go pick up the November issue and follow along. 

You'll have a festive apron to keep AND a thoughtful, handmade gift idea for the approaching holidays. Enjoy and I'd love to get your feedback. We hope to do more videos...