Are you interested in teaching at the 2026 Sewing & Stitchery Expo?
We are looking for new and exciting classes that are of general public interest in sewing, fiber, or other textile arts. Creativity and innovation related to these areas are highly encouraged, as are class topics exploring how our craft is practiced by and impacts specific communities. Regardless of type, classes must include a demonstration of a technique or provide educational information related to the sewing/textile industry, practice, history, and/or community.
Classes are not approved if they are primarily a sales pitch.
Our instructors have expertise in a variety of areas in textile and fiber arts, from garment construction to fiber dying. The most successful instructors have a combination of class types selected from those below and usually teach at least once per day during Expo.
2026 Expo Teacher Criteria (pdf)
Application Process
We have changed the instructor application process to a 2-step process. You will first submit your application with your high-level class ideas and we will meet to discuss which classes to add to our catalog. You no longer need to provide full class details in the first step. Then, you will submit the full details for the classes that are selected by our committee.
Our instructors have expertise in a variety of areas in textile and fiber arts, from garment construction to fiber dying. The most successful instructors have a combination of class types selected from those below and usually teach at least once per day during Expo.
Access the application at the link below. Instructor applications are due August 1, 2025.
Instructor Availability
The 2026 Sewing and Stitchery Expo is February 26 – March 1, 2026 with pre-show Half and Full Day classes on February 25. You can apply if you are not available all of the days, however preference is given to instructors who are available for the full show.
Instructor Compensation
Teachers are compensated for each class they teach, with rates varying based on class type and enrollment.
If you have any questions or would like more details, please don’t hesitate to contact us at sewexpo@wsu.edu.
Expo offers six types of learning experiences.
One Needle
The perfect class for an introduction to a new concept, or sharing tips and tricks.
- 45 minutes
- Up to 75 students
Two Needle
These classes are focused on a targeted technique or a simple, hands-on mini-project. Applications for Quick Projects must include a list of student supplies and kit materials, if applicable.
- 90 minutes
- Up to 24 or 30 students
Three Needle
These are our most popular classes and offer a hands-on creative experience. Project/Technique classes can be taught on sewing machines or sergers or handwork, such as fitting, beading, handsewing, or applied technique that does not require a machine. The goal is for attendees to learn a technique or complete/nearly complete a project within the time allowed. Applications for Project/Technique classes must include a list of student supplies and kit materials.
- 2½ hours
- Up to 24 or 30 students
Four Needle
These four-hour immersive learning experiences are offered within the week of Expo, with limited seating. These are hands-on classes using sewing machines/sergers or with a focus on drafting, handwork, beading, or other applied technique that does not require a machine. Students should learn a technique or skill and complete/nearly complete a project by the time class ends. Applications for Half Day classes must include a list of student supplies and kit materials.
- 4 hours
- Up to 24 students
Five Needle
These full day immersive learning experiences are offered within the week of Expo, with limited seating. These are hands-on classes using sewing machines/sergers or with a focus on drafting, handwork, beading, or other applied technique that does not require a machine. Students should learn a technique or skill and complete/nearly complete a project by the time class ends. Applications for Full Day classes must include a list of student supplies and kit materials.
- 6 hours or more
- Up to 24 students
Free Stage
These lecture/demo sessions are not ticketed and are open to all Expo attendees. Speakers selected for this venue must strictly adhere to the 45-minute time limit (all other Sewing & Stitchery Expo rules & regulations apply). Speakers are not compensated for Free Stage presentations.
Other Teacher Information
Kit Fee
If your class requires specific items for student success, teachers can provide what is needed for a fee. Costs vary with the amount and quality of product provided. While the Expo does not set a price limit on kit fees, we do ask that you consider what materials students truly need in each class and their total cost for the class. Kit fees are paid directly to the teacher and fulfilled at the beginning of class.
Supply List
Students are accustomed to bringing basic sewing or crafting supplies with them to Expo. Our basic supplies list for all students includes scissors (fabric & paper), pins, seam ripper, chalk, seam gauge, ruler, measuring tape, sewing needles, etc—and irons and pressing stations are provided in each hands-on classroom. Please consider what other supplies students should bring with them when you assemble your classes and kit fees.
Classrooms
Expo spans 22 classrooms in six buildings over five days. Class sizes and schedules will depend on classroom availability and teacher preferences, as indicated on your application. We make every effort to schedule classes appropriate to room capacity and required capabilities. If you have specific scheduling needs, please include those in the teaching application.
Questions?
Email us at sewexpo@wsu.edu.