Curated Fashion Intensives for Teens & Adults
We now offer a curated series of intensives designed for those who are ready to deepen their experience in fashion design, sewing, and sustainability. Each intensive focuses on a specific area of fashion. You’ll have the flexibility to choose the topics that most inspire you, building your skills step-by-step, project by project. Our instructors Christine Knobel & Julie Ann Brown are fashion industry professionals who have a wealth of experience as instructors and experts in their field.
Fall 2026
Sept 1 - Dec 18 2026
Courses run 4-5 weeks long + Early Bird Pricing through August 7 ($100 off each class) + 10% Discount when purchasing 2 or more courses + option to split classes into two payments.
This Fall, we continue our 3-part sketch to garment series, while expanding our design classes for younger students through adults. Our Fashion Studies program offers creative classes for every age and experience level. Students can explore fashion design, figure drawing, illustration, portfolio development, and garment construction in a supportive, hands-on environment. From first sketches to finished garments, our classes are designed to build creativity, confidence, and lasting skills. Classes are listed below (with links to register) in chronological order.
Fall Courses
Fashion Design for Kids & Teens - Ages 8 - 15
Tuesdays September 1-29 | 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm
This 5 week course will introduce kids to the process of creating their own designs through sketching. Design challenges will be given each week in different categories like activewear, hoodies, jeans, pajamas and more. The best part? No homework! This class is all about being creative and having fun with fashion.
All materials provided.
Ages: 8 - 15
Instructor Julie Ann Brown
Fashion Illustration with Markers - Ages 16-Adult
Tuesdays September 1-22 | 6 pm - 8 pm
(Ages 16 - Adult)
This new fall series will let you try out different art materials to create your own colorful fashion illustrations. This 4 week class will focus on the various types of markers including fine tip, square tip, brush tip, water-based, and alcohol based. Expand your art practice and portfolio by learning what you can and cannot do with markers.
All materials provided
Instructor Julie Ann Brown
Developing Your Design from Sketch to Garment - Part 1
Wednesdays Sept 2-30 | 6 pm - 8 pm
(Ages 13 - Adult)
Learn how to translate your design inspiration into real fashion ideas through sketching. Instruction includes an introduction to textiles so that you can choose the right fabric for your design. Using this fashion sketch, students will develop a technical flat sketch, including the front and back view that is used on all commercial patterns. This flat sketch will help you to formulate the construction details and proportions to be able to make a pattern and sew your first sample.
This class meets once a week for 2 hours for 5 weeks.
Instructor Julie Ann Brown
Learn to Construct a Fitted Blazer Using Ready-to-Wear Techniques - Part 1
Thursdays September 3 - October 1 | 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm
(Ages 15 - Adult)
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced
In Part 1 of this two-part series, students will begin constructing the Closet Core Jasika Blazer, a classic semi-fitted jacket that incorporates many of the techniques used in today's ready-to-wear apparel industry. Rather than relying on traditional couture tailoring methods, we'll use modern Ready-To-Wear tailoring techniques, fusible interfacings, and efficient construction methods to create a beautifully tailored garment with less hand sewing.
Instructor Christine Knobel
Corset Construction
(Ages 13-Adult)
Thursdays September 3 - October 1 | 6 pm - 8 pm
This course will teach the basics of corset making from choosing the right materials to how it all comes together. Students will practice making a mock-up to achieve the proper fit. From mock-up, students will construct the corset in coutil with boning, lacing and busk. We will learn specialized techniques, including how to cut and insert boning, different methods of seam finishing, flossing, and inserting grommets or hand sewn eyelets.
This class takes place one day a week for two hours over 5 weeks. and will cover the construction of the 1880’s Corset (Victorian corset) from Red Threaded corset patterns.
Instructor Christine Knobel
Fashion Illustration with Watercolor
Tuesdays September 29 - October 20 | 6 pm - 8 pm
(ages 16-Adult)
This new fall series will let you try out different art materials to create your own colorful fashion illustrations. This 4 week class will focus on the techniques used to create art with watercolors. We will play with wet and dry techniques while using various brushes and papers. Expand your art practice and portfolio by learning how much color you can get from a watercolor set.
All materials provided
Instructor Julie Ann Brown
Fashion Figures for Kids & Teens
Tuesdays October 6 - November 3 | 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm
(Ages 8-15)
Anyone can learn to draw a standing figure when they understand the basic rules of body mechanics. This 5 week course will teach kids how to draw their own fashion figures by blocking them out first with basic shapes. Each week they will gain more confidence through practice. The best part? No homework! This class is all about being creative and having fun with fashion.
All materials provided.
Instructor Julie Ann Brown
Fashion Design for Teens and Adults
Tuesdays October 7 - November 11 | 6 pm - 8 pm
(ages 16-Adult)
This 6 week class focuses on the creative process of designing fashion apparel by gathering inspirational imagery, and developing a weekly practice of sketching on a fashion figure through design challenges. Students will develop a fashion vocabulary while considering the 5 essential elements of fashion design: fabric, fit, style, function and focal point in creating their designs.
This class meets once a week for 2 hours for 6 weeks.
Instructor Julie Ann Brown
Learn to Construct a Fitted Blazer Using Ready-to-Wear Techniques - Part 2
Thursday October 8 - November 5 | 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced
(Ages 15-Adult)
Bring your blazer to life as we complete construction of the Closet Core Jasika Blazer using professional ready-to-wear finishing techniques.
In Part 2, students will continue assembling their jackets while focusing on the details that transform a handmade garment into a polished wardrobe staple. You'll learn how linings, sleeves, pressing, and finishing techniques all work together to create a beautifully tailored jacket you'll be proud to wear for years.
Instructor: Christine Knobel
Developing Your Design from Sketch to Garment - Part 2
Thursday October 8 - November 5 | 6 pm - 8 pm
(Ages 13-Adult)
This course will launch from the designers sketch and tech pack from part 1 in this series. In this hands-on course, designers will learn how to understand and adjust a pattern. Students will learn how to research commercial patterns to fit their designs. From there, the student will learn pattern drafting techniques to change the pattern into one that will complete their design. This course is ideal for those eager to transform their fashion ideas into well crafted, wearable pieces.
This class takes place one day a week for two hours for 5 weeks.
Students are required to have completed 2-3 sewing projects to have some construction knowledge before taking this course.
Instructor Christine Knobel
Fashion Illustration with Procreate
Tuesdays October 27 - November 17 | 6 pm - 8 pm
(ages 16-Adult)
This new fall series is for students who want to learn how to create their fashion illustrations in the digital space. Students must have their own tablet with a digital drawing app (ProCreate, Krita) and stylus. This 4 week class will teach you how to use brushes, layers, and selection tools while learning hand gesture shortcuts. Expand your art practice and portfolio by learning the advantages and limitations of using ProCreate.
Instructor Julie Ann Brown
Textiles 101 - Introduction to Fabrics
Sundays November 8 - 15 | 2:30 pm - 5:30 pm
(Ages 13-Adult)
Whether you are vying for admission to a fashion school, or you are wanting to expand your sewing knowledge, you need to learn more about choosing the right fabrics for your projects.
In this class you will learn the difference between the two major classes of fabrics: knits and wovens and how they are constructed. Then students will begin to learn about the composition of the fibers (plant, animal, synthetic, etc.) and how that affects the lifecycle of modern clothing.
The 2nd class will meet at Stonemountain & Daughter in Berkeley for a guided tour to touch and feel fabrics while learning some common names and descriptions.
This class meets once a week for 2 hours for 2 weeks and is perfect for anyone who loves denim, sustainability, and hands-on creativity.
Instructor Julie Ann Brown
Fashion Illustration for Kids & Teens
Tuesdays November 10 - December 15 | 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm
(Ages 8-15)
This 5 week class is all about having fun with fashion while trying out different art materials! Students will create illustrations from prompts, references and their own imagination while exploring various art techniques. We will be exploring collage, pastels, colored pencils, markers and watercolor.
All materials provided.
Instructor Julie Ann Brown
Denim Remix: Upcycle Your Jeans
Wednesdays November 18 - December 16 | 6 pm - 8 pm
(Ages 13 - Adult)
Give your old denim new life in this creative 5-week upcycling workshop! Learn how to deconstruct, redesign, and transform worn jeans or skirts into one-of-a-kind garments and accessories. Students will explore creative ways to combine, piece, and customize denim while learning practical sewing and alteration techniques.
Bring 2–3 pairs of jeans and at least one design concept — or simply come ready to experiment! You’re also welcome to bring a simple sewing pattern and use denim as your base material. Throughout the course, we’ll explore design possibilities and sustainable sewing practices while you create something truly your own.
Instructor Julie Ann Brown
Learn How to Sew a Quilt Jacket or Barn Coat using the Closet Core Fowler Jacket pattern
Thursday November 19 - December 17 | 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm
(Ages 15-Adult)
Skill Level: Confident Beginner - Intermediate
In this four-week class, you'll create your own version using the Closet Core Fowler Jacket—a versatile pattern that lets you choose between a cozy quilted jacket or a classic workwear-inspired barn coat.
Designed with an oversized fit, dropped shoulders, two-piece sleeves, and a clean collarless neckline, the Fowler Jacket is the perfect canvas for creativity. Whether you envision a patchwork quilt jacket made from cherished fabric scraps, a minimalist linen barn coat, or a bold statement piece, you'll learn the techniques needed to bring your vision to life.
Instructor Christine Knobel
Developing Your Design from Sketch to Garment - Part 3
Thursday November 19 - December 17 | 6 pm - 8 pm
(Ages 13-Adult)
This course will launch from the designers sketch, tech pack, and pattern from part 1 and 2 in this series. In this hands-on course, designers will learn essential sewing and garment construction skills. Students will construct their original designs in fashion fabric utilizing professional sewing techniques. This course is ideal for those eager to transform their fashion ideas into well crafted, wearable pieces.
This class takes place one day a week for two hours for 4 weeks.
Students are required to have completed 2-3 sewing projects to have some construction knowledge before taking this course.
Instructor Christine Knobel
How to Stand Out Using Composition
Tuesdays December 1-15 | 6 pm - 8 pm
(Ages 16-Adult)
Composition in art is the arrangement of visual elements like lines, shapes, colors and textures within the piece. It is used by photographers, stylists, designers, architects and anyone else creating a visual piece viewed by an audience. Once you understand the rules, then you can invite the viewer’s eye into your art and guide them through the elements you want them to look at. It makes your art stand out in a crowd, which is really helpful when submitting a portfolio for review, or putting your work on the fridge.
Instructor Julie Ann Brown
This program is perfect for:
Aspiring Designers & Future Fashion Students
Whether you're applying to a high school or college fashion program, Fashion Studies will give you a strong foundation. You'll sharpen your sewing skills, strengthen your sketching and design abilities, and build confidence in pattern making—skills that will help your work stand out in any portfolio.
Fashion-Lovers Who Express Themselves Through Style
If you find yourself drawn to fashion as a form of self-expression, this program is for you. Whether you're still exploring your identity or already curating your personal aesthetic, Fashion Studies offers a space to deepen your creative voice, develop hands-on skills, and transform your ideas into wearable art.
Enthusiasts Exploring Sustainable Fashion
Maybe you've always loved clothes, but now you’re interested in where they come from, how they’re made, and how to make better choices for the planet. This program blends design and construction with an introduction to sustainability—teaching you how to make garments with intention, reduce waste, and create fashion that aligns with your values.
Creative Entrepreneurs & Independent Makers
Thinking about launching your own brand or clothing line? We’ll walk you through the essentials: pattern drafting, design development, and sewing techniques—equipping you with the practical skills you need to bring your vision to life, whether you're designing for yourself, your community, or the world.
Instructors
Jennifer Serr
Fashion Studies Program Director
If you get into the HEART of what I really do and why, you’ll find I teach my students how to be fashion designers. I teach them the skills they need to fulfill their dreams big or small. I guide them and help them build these skills which gives them CONFIDENCE. I also give my students the opportunity to learn skills they might not learn until they go to COLLEGE. This give them a “TASTE” of what THAT might be like.
Before opening The Sewing Room in 2012, I spent over 15 years working as a Technical Designer for brands Gap, Banana Republic, Old Navy, Pottery Barn and Coyuchi. During the years that followed my technical design career, I owned and operated Jennifer Serr Couture Bridal and taught Pattern Making in the Fashion Department at California College of the Arts, in addition to building the business I have now.
It’s my true passion to share what I know with Young Designers. I understand the obsession with fashion, clothing and how it all gets made.
Julie Ann Brown
Fashion Illustration and Design
Since earning her BFA in Fashion Design at Otis, she has spent the last twenty five years creating swimwear collections in Southern California for labels such as Girlstar, bebe,Lucky Brand, Betsey Johnson, ále by Alessandra Ambrosio, Soluna and Isabella Rose. These designs have been featured in many publications including Vogue, GQ, Elle, Harpers Bazaar, and Sports Illustrated.
She has designed her life to be a constant output of creativity so that most of her time is spent making art, taking pictures, dancing, and sharing her knowledge with others. She loves to draw women and has been profoundly influenced by the works of René Gruau, Alphonse Mucha, Alberto Vargas, David Downton and Ruben Toledo.
After working with Julie Ann over the last several years, I’ve found her to be a skilled and passionate instructor. She teaches her students how to “SEE” and then layers on more with each lesson.
Christine Knobel
Fashion Sewing and Pattern Making
Christine works as a freelance designer, seamstress, and instructor in the Northern California Bay Area. She’s taught fashion and textile courses at the University of California, Davis in the Department of Design. Christine has also worked as an instructor at Arizona State University in the Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts.
While at UC Davis for her M.F.A., her thesis focused on fashion sustainability. She studied dyeing methods, textile life cycle assessments, and ultimately dove into biotextile design. Her work there led her to Make: where she's been sharing her research on kombucha textiles and cosplay.
As a fashion designer, she's worked professionally in pattern drafting, loungewear design, textile print design, and with private clients for cosplay design and construction. Her cosplay work has been featured by Marvel Comics, and seen on such sites as Vanity Fair, LA Weekly, and the Daily Mail UK. Christine has a passion for fashion, from fiber, yarns, textiles, to the rich history of the garments we wear.