Essential Information
Maryland is home to a number of community colleges that offer sewing classes through community education programs and at least two schools that offer degree programs related to sewing. Continuing education classes are offered throughout the year and are usually designed for students of all skills levels. Most of the community education courses are not offered for college credit; rather, they are for students who want to learn sewing for their own personal growth and interests.
Students interested in a formal degree program can earn a certificate, associate's degree or bachelor's degree in fashion design or a related field. All programs incorporate hands-on learning of sewing skills and techniques with and without machines. The design and/or construction of garments is common. Degree-seeking students might participate in a fashion show or do a senior project.
Read on for more information about the types of sewing classes available to Maryland students, and find a comparative chart for the programs and courses available.
Allegany College of Maryland
Located in Cumberland, this community college offers a sewing class for beginners. Students are invited to bring their own supplies and a sewing machine so that they can work on sewing projects together in class. As part of the curriculum, students learn how to make pieces of clothing from patterns. The class meets every week for eight sessions.
Baltimore City Community College
Students who enroll at this Baltimore college can choose between an Associate of Applied Science in Fashion Design and a Certificate in Fashion Design. Both of the programs teach students about the fashion industry and its influence on culture, history and society. Students also learn technical skills involving sewing, tailoring, textiles and pattern making. There's also an emphasis on the business side of the fashion industry that involves market research and business management. Students also have the opportunity to produce a campus fashion show.
College of Southern Maryland
This La Plata college offers two sewing classes. The beginning class is for students with no experience. Students learn how to read patterns, select fabrics and make simple seams. There's also an intermediate sewing class for students who want to further their sewing skills. Students learn how to master techniques. Both classes require students to bring sewing machines.
The Community College of Baltimore County
Located in Baltimore, this college offers a series of sewing classes for students of all skill levels. There are two introductory classes followed by intermediate classes that allow students to create their own sewing projects. There are also two garment construction classes for students who want to learn how to make their own clothing. Another class focuses on sewing projects for the home in which students can learn how to create guest towels, lampshades and window dressing.
Maryland Institute College of Art
Students who enroll in this Baltimore college can earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fiber. Within the major, students can also concentrate on experimental fashion, which involves taking classes in garment design, garment production, fashion culture and material culture. The numerous studio classes ensure that students have the opportunity to create their own designs and explore the use of fiber in clothing design and construction. Near the end of the program, students take part in an independent project.
School Comparison: At a Glance
| School Name | School Type and Setting | Sewing Classes/Programs Offered | Undergraduate Tuition and Fees (2018-2019)* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Allegany College of Maryland | 2-year; public Small city | Sewing for Beginners | $4,220 in-district $7,580 in-state $9,290 out-of-state |
| Baltimore City Community College | 2-year; public Large city | Associate of Applied Science in Fashion Design, Certificate in Fashion Design | $3,146 in-state $7,226 out-of-state |
| College of Southern Maryland | 2-year; public Rural; fringe | Beginning Sewing, Sewing II | $3,825 in-district $6,660 in-state $8,580 out-of-state |
| The Community College of Baltimore County | 2-year; public Large suburb | Various Sewing Classes | $4,276 in-district $7,110 in-state $10,204 out-of-state |
| Maryland Institute College of Art | 4-year; private; not-for-profit Large city | Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fiber | $48,630 |
Source: *NCES College Navigator