Are you interested in teaching at the 2024 Sewing & Stitchery Expo?
Topics must be 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/textiles industry, practice, history, and/or community.
2024 Expo Teacher Criteria
Our teachers have expertise in a variety of areas in textile and fiber arts, from garment construction to fiber dying. The most successful teachers have a combination of class types selected from those below and usually teach at least once per day during Expo.
Access the application by clicking the link below. Teaching applications are due September 15, 2023.
2024 Teacher Application
Expo offers four types of learning experiences:
One Needle Classes 
One Needle Classes are a traditional lecture/demo format — the perfect class for an introduction to a new concept, tips and tricks. One Needle classes are offered twice during Expo, usually on Thursday/Saturday or Friday/Sunday.
- 45 minutes, up to 300 students
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Two Needle Classes
Two Needle Classes are focused on a project or specific, targeted technique, either as a lecture/demo or a simple, hands-on mini-project. Sewing machines/sergers are not available for Two Needle classes, but steps may be demonstrated using the instructor’s machine. Two Needle classes are offered twice during Expo, usually on Thursday/Saturday or Friday/Sunday. Applications for Two Needle classes must include a list of student supplies and kit materials, if applicable.
- 90 minutes, up to 50 students
Three Needle Classes
These are our most popular classes and offer a hands-on creative experience. Three Needle 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. Three Needle classes are offered twice during Expo, usually on Thursday/Saturday or Friday/Sunday. Applications for Three Needle classes must include a list of student supplies and kit materials.
- 2.5 hours, up to 50 students
Four Needle Classes
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 Four Needle classes must include a list of student supplies and kit materials.
- 4 hours, up to 50 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).
Other Teaching 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 to Expo. Please consider what they bring with them when you assemble your classes and kit fees. Our basic supplies list includes scissors (fabric & paper), pins, seam ripper, chalk, seam gauge, ruler, measuring tape, sewing needles, etc.
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.