Laura Wirkkala began offering sewing classes out of her home in 2002 and opened her first storefront in 2006 in Arlington, Massachusetts. She is currently in her fourth retail location, now in Ashland, WI. Her classes stand out because Laura teaches small groups, allowing students to work in a way that suits them best. Since she works one-on-one with each student, Laura tailors her teaching to their individual needs, rather than following a rigid format. If a student doesn’t understand something, she finds alternative ways to explain it. She has discovered that she is one of the few who genuinely enjoys teaching beginners.

In addition, Laura has a passion for advanced sewing techniques and loves learning how to make things better, faster, and more creatively. She teaches a wide variety of topics, including clothing, home decor, quilting, machine techniques, accessories, alterations, repairs, and any other sewing skills students wish to learn. While Laura studied pattern drafting at the School of Fashion Design in Boston, she doesn’t teach it as a full course, but she is happy to help with garment copying, fitting, and styling. Always eager to expand her knowledge, Laura reads, tries new tools and techniques, and attends sewing and quilting shows to stay on top of her craft.

More information about Laura’s Sewing School here.