FAQ
CLASSES & LESSONS
Can you teach me how to use my sewing machine?
Yes we can. We have “Intro to Sewing” classes and private lessons. To build your skills we have classes from beginner to advanced level. Visit our Classes page for a list of upcoming classes.
What is your refund policy for class registrations?
To be fair to those who sign up for classes and events particularly those on the waiting lists we have a cancellation and refund policy.
Full registration payment is required to reserve your spot in a class or event. Cancellations made more than 1 week in advance of the class or event will receive a 50% refund. For cancellations made less than 7 days in advance no refund will be given. Transfers may be granted at the discretion of management for a fee of $35 for classes of 4 hours or less, or $50 for classes of more than 4 hours in length. If we have to cancel a class due to low enrolment you will receive a full refund or a free transfer to another class or event.
For custom parties we do not issue refunds. If the party is cancelled with at least 3 weeks notice we will issue a credit to use against any of our offerings or products.
Can my child attend a class not designated specifically for youth?
If you would like to register unaccompanied minor (under 18 years old) please check with us before booking. We require teachers of unaccompanied minors to have completed a criminal record check. Otherwise a parent or guardian may be asked to accompany the child for the duration of the class, or you may be told that the class is not suitable for youth to attend.
Our Parent Contact Form can be found here.
What are your classes like?
Our classes are limited to 6-10 students so you get the best instruction and attention you need. Each student will have a machine to work on so no one has to share machines. Our teachers are all makers as well as experienced instructors. We hope they will inspire you as well as teach you new skills. Each class allows time for questions as well as instruction. At the start of each class we serve tea and usually a sweet treat while we relax and get to know each other before starting instruction. Being Northern Irish (Jill), tea is a key element of a warm and hospitable welcome. In the studio you are expected to follow instructions and safety guidelines for your own safety and to avoid damage to machines and tools.
Can I come in and use your sewing machines to sew my project?
Of course. Our drop-ins are called Sewing Time and happen twice per month. Pre-registration is preferred. You can use the machines, work tables, and tools in our studio. There is an experienced stitcher on hand who can answer your occasional questions but if you need one-to-one or in-depth teaching then we will ask you to book a private lesson for more support.
Do you have free parking?
Yes, we have a covered parking lot in our building which is accessed from Spring St. Please ask for a parking pass in the store. Street parking in the area is also free.
SHIPPING
For more information on our shipping please visit our Shipping page.
REFUNDS & OTHER INFORMATION
What is your refund policy for products (for classes, see above)?
Products can be returned for store credit within 30 days of receipt of your goods. No returns on scissors, irons, or cut merchandise e.g. fabric by the metre. Damaged or defective goods can be returned for replacement, refund or store credit. We will refund the shipping costs in the instance that your goods are defective.
Sewing machines: returns can be made on unopened boxes within 15 days of purchase. Within 15 days opened boxes can be returned for a 15% restocking fee. No returns on damaged machines. The warranty on new machines covers parts and labour for 2 years, electrical defects for 2 years, and manufacturer's defects for 25 years.
Can you repair my sewing machine?
Yes. Machines dropped off at our shop are serviced and repaired by Castle Sewing Centre.
Do you have any free resources or patterns for me?
Yes we do. We are building a library of free resources - click here. For example, click this link for a template for pattern labels to help organize your pattern storage.
What about health and safety?
We care about our community and have taken steps to provide a safe environment for you to visit us in person. Our shop is open for in-person shopping as well as online shopping and curb-side pick ups. For more information on our policies please see our Health and Safety page.
How do you choose your fabrics?
Our fabrics are all hand-picked with intention. We want each fabric to have a story that is meaningful to you. We choose to stock mainly natural fibres and seek out certified fabrics that make less impact on people and the environment. That is why we don't have many plastic fibres like polyester or nylon. We want you to feel good about the fabrics you make with as well as feel good in them.
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Further details about our Terms of Service can be found at the bottom of the Checkout page. They can be read before entering payment details.