Frequently Asked Questions
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If you're here, it's probably because your desire to learn has brought you to us. Maybe you inherited a grandmother's sewing machine, are tired of paying for alterations, or dream of transforming your secondhand finds... What if now was the right time to learn how to do all this yourself?
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You may have already sewn (the famous high school boxers?) and you are looking to progress, to make prettier finishes, to successfully undertake more complex projects, or to adapt a pattern to your taste and your measurements.
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You are not completely sure? Do you have any questions? We hope the answers below will help. If not, feel free to write to us using the form at the bottom of the page; we'll be happy to help!
General Information
Where do the classes take place?
Classes are held in person only!
Our premises are located at 2025 rue Parthenais, in Montreal (Quebec, Canada).
Classes take place in two locations: Studio #244 or Studio #250 . Check your class confirmation or reminder email to find out which one is your classroom!
How do I get to la Fabrique éthique? Is there parking?
The Grover building is located at the corner of Parthenais and Ontario East streets.
By metro: green line, Frontenac station (9 min walk)
By bus: 125 (stop on the corner) 10, 85, 94, 185 (stops within a 10-minute walk)
There is no reserved parking . If you are driving, you will need to find a parking space on the street. There are no parking meters or parking stickers on Parthenais, Fullum, and De la Rivière streets.
Once in front of 2025 Parthenais, dial code 20 into the intercom, we will let you in. Go up to the second floor and follow the signs and numbers to room #244 or #250 .
What language are the classes taught in?
Our classes are offered in both French and English. In private lessons, the instructor will work with you in the language of your choice. For certain group classes, especially those designed for beginners or that include a lot of theory, we offer separate time slots based on the language of instruction, to ensure a comfortable and accessible learning experience.
When registering, the label "FRANÇAIS", "ENGLISH", or "FR & EN" in the course title indicates whether the class is offered in French, in English, or is bilingual.
How to book and pay for a course?
- Group Classes: Booking and payment for a group class must be completed online. If you prefer to visit us and pay with another payment method, you will need to visit the studio by appointment only to complete your registration.
- Private Lessons and Open Studio: Booking a private lesson must be completed through the website. We require a credit card to ensure you are serious, but you can select the "Réserver sans payer" option and we will complete the payment in person at the studio at the end of your appointment. We will retain a handling fee if you do not show up.
At the studio, we accept payment in debit, credit cards and cash.
How do I cancel or postpone my registration?
To cancel or postpone a registration, please contact us by email by replying to your confirmation email or using the contact form.
According to our Absence and Cancellation Policy :
- Private lesson: cancellation of a registration less than 24 hours before the start of the course will result in a fee of $30.
- Group courses: cancellation of a registration less than 48 hours before the start of the course will result in non-refund of administrative fees .
If we are forced to cancel a course, we will offer you alternative dates or issue a full refund as soon as possible!
What to do if I miss a class?
We understand that life is sometimes full of surprises!
- Group classes: We ask that you notify us by email before the start of the class, if possible. You can then book your make-up class yourself by clicking here. If you know your absence date when you register, please leave us a note in your order so we can arrange your retake with you.
- Private lessons: Any absence notified less than 24 hours before the start of the course will incur a fee. Please refer to our Absence and Cancellation Policy .
How do I schedule, modify, or cancel a make up class?
- Learn to Sew and Making My Projects courses : At the project stage, you can schedule a make-up class as early as the second week of the session by clicking here or by speaking with your teacher during your class. No make-up class requests will be accepted by phone.
- For specialized or pattern courses, first discuss the possibility of a make-up class with your teacher. Note that it can be complicated to organize a make-up class for certain highly structured courses or those that are given less frequently.
Modify or cancel a make-up class: go to your confirmation email and click on the "voir les détails du rendez-vous" link or contact us by email!
How do I find out about upcoming course schedule?
We recommend signing up for the waiting list for the course you're interested in! You'll receive an email when new dates are added. It's free, of course :)
You can also subscribe to our newsletter (see footer) and follow us on Instagram.
Will I get a degree in sewing or fashion design?
NO! We are not a school offering professional training that issues an official diploma.
If you are looking for professional training in sewing or pattern making in Quebec, find out about the DEP in Fashion and Custom-Made Clothing or the DEC in Fashion Design.
We welcome all those curious and passionate about sewing, including fashion students or fashion professionals who would like to take advantage of our courses to develop their skills further :)
How do I offer a sewing class to someone as a gift?
What a great idea! Sewing is a gift for life! You can offer sewing classes offered at la Fabrique éthique with a Gift Certificate for private or group lessons.
Space and Tools
Who are the teachers?
The teachers at la Fabrique éthique are all professionals in sewing and fashion design, trained in pattern making as well as tailoring and made-to-measure.
But above all, they are human beings with a great desire to teach, who are keen to share their passion, equip their students and support them in their creative journeys!
You can learn more about each teacher by clicking here .
What should I bring to class?
We provide all the sewing tools, pencils, paper, threads... Really, our workshop is fully equipped!
If you need inspiration for your project, we also have a well-stocked library full of sewing patterns.
- Group classes: If you are more advanced and already have your fabric and/or sewing pattern, we recommend bringing them.
- Private lessons: Give details about your project in the form when booking an appointment and your teacher will tell you what to bring.
All that's missing is your beautiful smile and your ideas! :)
P.S.: To ensure a comfortable sewing experience and keep the studio clean, we kindly ask that you bring indoor shoes or slippers on rainy or snowy days!
Are fabrics provided?
Our studio is overflowing with free fabrics that have been donated to us, all waiting for THE project that will give them a new meaning!
Fabrics (mostly organic or certified) are also on sale on site during classes and at the Open Studio.
Otherwise, you are welcome to bring the fabrics you need for your project. We've put together our favorite fabric shopping spots to help you!
If you are taking the course Learn to Sew, we recommend that you wait for your teacher who will give you fabric advice according to your project.
What machines are available? Can I bring my own sewing machine?
Our studios are equipped with Singer Heavy Duty domestic sewing machines and sergers. Simple, robust, and efficient! We love them, and each one has its own little name ;)
- Private lessons: If you would like to bring your own sewing machine, please specify this when booking your lesson (and if possible, indicate the model). On the day of the lesson, make sure to bring all the machine's accessories and connections, as well as the documentation if you have!
- Group Classes: It is possible to bring your own machine to a group class after discussing it with your teacher. We do not recommend bringing your own machine to the first class of the course Learn to Sew, as you may find it difficult to follow the instructions with a different machine.
Is it accessible to people with reduced mobility?
The Grover building is an older building and is not the most easily accessible if you have mobility constraints... Our office is located on the 2nd floor, with stairs. We apologize!
Can children participate? What is the minimum age to take the classes?
Our group classes are reserved for adults and young adults aged 16 and over, with no maximum age limit.
Yes , children and teenagers are welcome in certain circumstances and under certain conditions (because a sewing studio is full of sharp and pointy objects!)
- Private lessons (recommended age: 9 years and up): If you would like to sew with your child, we recommend booking a private family sewing class! The presence and participation of an adult is required at all times during the class.
- Group Classes (from 12 years old): For safety and responsibility reasons, only children 12 years and older may participate in a group class. Participating in a group class requires independence, respect for instructions, and a certain emotional maturity. Also, our students are mostly adults, and some conversations may not be appropriate for a child. Therefore, we recommend discussing this with your child or teenager to confirm their motivation before enrolling. We can also help you determine if the course content is appropriate. Don't hesitate to contact us !
- Toddlers and Infants: We are sorry, but for safety reasons, toddlers cannot accompany their parent(s).
Can I bring my pet?
For safety reasons, only service animals can come and sew with us :)
Please contact us to discuss!
Can I eat and drink during classes?
Of course, as long as you can sew! ;)
Please keep liquid containers closed, make sure other students don't have allergies... and pick up your crumbs! For sewing camps and full day workshops, you have access to a refrigerator and microwave.
What is the Open Studio?
The Open Studio allows you to use the space and our tools to work on your projects outside of your class. It is the opportunity to work autonomously in a quiet environment. Simply reserve your place .
There's always a teacher on site who can answer your questions and help you out if you have any problems with the material. If you need more help, you can request assistance for an additional fee. If you need a lot more help...we suggest booking a private or à la carte class! ;)
Psst... If you're signed up for our Learn to Sew course, we'll give you 2 free hours at the Open Studio, to use whenever you want!
Can I donate tools or fabrics?
We always accept donations with great pleasure and gratitude:
- clean fabrics, from private workshops or professional stocks
- sewing accessories (scissors, needles, rulers, etc.)
- supplies (zippers, buttons, ribbons, etc.)
Unfortunately our stable of sewing machines and irons is full, we cannot accept any more boarders! ;)
We sort and reuse everything we can. In fact, we graciously make your donations available to our students. What we can't use is donated to the Grover community of artists and artisans, or recycled.
Do not hesitate to write to us to discuss this.
Do you sell sewing machines / tools / fabric?
No, we do not sell sewing machines or sewing tools.
Our supplies (zippers, buttons, ribbons, elastics, etc.) are reserved for students enrolled in our group or private classes.
We do sell a small selection of fabric (mostly organic) during Open Studio hours.
Why come sew with us?
Why learning how to sew today?
Because sewing is a wonderful way to regain some control over what we wear every day. In a world where everything moves so fast, it's also a way to slow down, observe, and make more conscious choices.
At La Fabrique éthique, we see sewing as a tool for personal expression. It allows you to adapt a garment to you ; your body and your desires, rather than the other way around. You don't need to have an entirely hand-sewn wardrobe to feel the benefits: sometimes, knowing how to modify a piece you love, or simply understanding how it's constructed, is enough to change your perspective.
It's also a feel-good activity. It encourages concentration and patience, and reconnects us to the present moment. Time just flies by when you are immersed in a project!
It is also a great opportunity to share. Our classes bring together people with very different backgrounds, around projects that are just as diverse. Here, swimsuits meet tailored jackets, rompers rub shoulders with cosplay outfits... and there's a place for everyone. :)
How to determine my sewing level?
At la Fabrique éthique, we divide our student's and our courses' level into two large groups:
- Beginner (or false beginner): You never touched a machine in your life? You have sewn small projects with a machine, but never used a commercial sewing pattern? You have already sewn, but it's a distant memory? We recommend you start by acquiring the right skills or refreshing your memory with our course Learn to Sew. Plus, you can choose your project!
- Intermediate or advanced: You know how to thread and use a sewing machine. You have already sewn one or two complex projects (such as a garment, an accessory with a closure system, etc.). You know how to use a commercial pattern (maybe you don't understand everything, but that's what we're here for!). You can choose between course Make My Projects course or one of our more specialized sewing or patternmaking courses!
Still having trouble assessing your level? Write to us to tell us about your experience and plans, and we'll help you choose the most suitable course.
How does a course unfolds?
Meet at the time and studio indicated in your reminder email!
Our classes take place in small groups of a maximum of 5 students (4 for pattern making classes). We wish for everyone to have their own space and get good support from the teacher.
Some courses are very structured, filled with theory, demonstrations and exercises, others are "open projects"... The description you will find for each course on the website will provide you with all the information.
However, the goal of all our classes remains the same: to equip you so that you can create the projects you love and express yourself through sewing! And always in a caring, attentive, and inclusive learning atmosphere.
Are there any knitting or embroidery classes?
No, sorry! Our courses are truly specialized in sewing and pattern making.