Couture Workshops and Classes

Barbie will be teaching at the ASDP Conference in Kansas City, MO this October 15-19, 2026!

In addition to attending all of the wonderful networking events (Welcome Reception, Fashion Show, Luncheon, Banquet Dinner and Annual Meeting, and the Farewell Reception) I will be teaching the following classes!

All About Closures: 2 Day Masterclass

Presented with Ellen W. Miller

October 14 – 15, 2026 (Wednesday & Thursday)
8:30am – 5:00pm

During this 2 day class you will learn “all about closures” including how to properly make closures work and look right on any garment.

“Students will learn how to adjust patterns to accept different zipper techniques, different buttons and buttonholes, cord loops, and more. Among the zipper techniques covered: invisible zippers, fly front zippers, separating zippers, pocket zippers. Among the button/buttonhole techniques: better machine-worked buttonholes, in-seam/slot buttonholes, cord loops. We will also make covered snaps for discreet help keeping things closed.”

The Business of Alterations

Friday – October 16, 2026 
8:30am – 5:00pm

Let’s dive into the “Business” part of your alterations business!

“This class will cover a range of professional practices: business planning, pricing, estimates, overhead, basic marketing, basic accounting, sourcing supplies, budgeting, hiring, scheduling, policies and contracts, training, education, continuing education, and more.

These business basics, geared specifically towards a sewing business, will open your eyes to all aspects of how a business is run — not just getting the sewing done.”

The Lucrative Line of Altering Leather Garments

Saturday – October 17, 2026 
8:30am – 5:00pm

“Expand your wheelhouse AND your earnings!

Students will learn tips, tricks, and tools for marking, hemming, seaming, working around/with zippers, topstitching, and “blind” hemming. We’ll cover how to tell real leather from faux leather, and the differences you need to know for successful alterations. We’ll discuss the capabilities and limitations of domestic machines vs. industrial machines (regular vs. compound foot), and industry techniques for working with each.”

Harnessing Hairbraid! 

Sunday – October 18, 2026 
8:30am – 12:00pm (AM Session)

“It’s not just for hems! Learn about the different types and properties of various hairbraids. We will cover several different ways to hem — which fabrics work best with which widths of hairbraid, and numerous methods for hemming! Learn how creative you can be with this weightless, buoyant notion!”

Bone-Appetit! All About Boning 

Sunday – October 18, 2026 
1:30pm – 5:00pm (PM Session)

“Learn about the different types and uses of boning! From super stiff to softly structured — from building a corset to lending a smooth appearance to fitted garments, and supporting necklines, collars, structured shoulder pads, bras, and waistbands.

This class will cover the different kinds of boning available (metal, plastic, polyester, nylon, woven, coiled, combinations, etc.), their individual qualities, how to tip them, how to sew them into different areas of garments, and many different applications.

Students will learn the variations in usage — like sewing a separate support structure such as an inner corselette vs. sewing directly into garment sections. We’ll cover how and where to add support to an existing garment. An array of sewing and structure techniques will be demonstrated and discussed.”

La Cascade 2027, France

SAVE THE DATE!

July 22 – July 29, 2027

Fit for Art Patterns with guest instructor Barbie McCormick

Dufort, France

“Save the date to join fit for Art at Las Cascade for a fabulous week in Enchanting France in 2027! We will host Barbie McCormick as guest instructor along with Rae in an exploration of the famous Chanel technique of jacket making, plus some contemporary ways to embellish your creations. More information coming soon!”

Visit the Fit for Art website to sign up for registration announcements!

Couture Workshops

Barbie, along with her colleague Linda Homan, offers couture level sewing workshops. Workshops vary from 3-7 days, and cover fitting and sewing techniques for trousers, French designer jackets, hand tailored jackets, dresses, skirts, and patterns.

Sewing Business Support

As a dressmaker, alterationist, and small business owner, I faced the challenge of balancing my passion with the need to ensure profitability. It is my sincere hope that the tools I’ve developed will empower you to create a successful and thriving business!

Choose Your Level of Support