A sewing machine is a commitment.

A two-hour introduction? That’s a place to start.

Hannah Gioutlos of Modistra Sews is offering Learn to Sew: Machine Basics, scheduled for Tuesday, October 20, 2026, from 5 to 7 p.m. in San Marcos.

The organizer’s listing places the session at Emily and Jessica Make Stuff, also called EJMS WorkShop, at 574 East Mission Road, Suite G2.

Machines, tools and materials are advertised as supplied.

For Vista and San Marcos readers curious about sewing, that removes a practical hurdle: buying equipment before knowing whether you enjoy using it.

Start With Something You Can Use

The planned project is a pillowcase made from scratch.

The advertised instruction covers threading a sewing machine, winding a bobbin, sewing a straight stitch and pivoting a corner.

No previous experience is required. Beginners and people needing a refresher are welcome.

The listed supplies include fabric, scissors, thread, bobbins and pins, alongside the machines.

That means no need to purchase those items before class. You can concentrate on learning the steps instead of wandering a notions aisle wondering what, exactly, the notions are.

The advertised goal is a completed pillowcase to take home.

A useful first project. Your debut does not need sleeves, a zipper or a deadline involving someone’s wedding.

“All Ages” Has a Minimum

The title says “All Ages Welcome.” The actual rules set the minimum age at 8.

Anyone under 13 must have a parent or guardian present throughout the two-hour session.

Hannah encourages adults to help younger students during class.

If only the child is participating, the listing says one ticket is sufficient. An accompanying adult can support that child without buying a second student ticket.

That does not establish that two participating students can share one registration.

For children under 13, this is not a drop-off activity.

All students are required to sign a waiver before class begins.

A First Stitch With Local Connections

The pillowcase lesson belongs to a broader teaching program.

Modistra Sews advertises garment sewing, bag making, visible mending, sashiko and private lessons.

Hannah’s website names the Antique Gas and Steam Engine Museum in Vista and Quilt in a Day in San Marcos among her teaching locations.

That connects her instruction to both communities North Valley Flare covers.

Machine basics is described as preparation for other Learn to Sew workshops. Students already confident threading a machine may skip the introductory step.

Her separate tote-bag course adds fabric cutting, reinforced handles and pressing.

October 20 starts with the fundamentals. Its listing does not advertise clothing repairs or garment construction.

First, meet the machine. The ambitious project list can wait until you’ve introduced yourself to the bobbin.

Before You Reserve

Registration is through the organizer’s Eventbrite listing.

Check the October 20 page for the current total price and available spaces. The organizer advertises limited spots; the remaining seat count has not been verified.

For a beginner, the appeal is straightforward: instruction and supplied equipment, with a practical project to work toward.

A chance to find out whether sewing belongs in your life before the machine belongs in your house.

Questions About the Class:

When is it scheduled?

Tuesday, October 20, 2026, from 5 to 7 p.m.

Where is it?

574 East Mission Road, Suite G2, San Marcos, CA 92069.

Do I need a machine?

No. Machines, tools and materials are advertised as supplied.

Can children attend?

Yes, ages 8 and older. Anyone under 13 needs an accompanying adult throughout.