Fashion Design Sewing Certificate Program

*** Program Update ***

Beginning September 1, 2026, Fabric Studies (CD-209) and Advanced Sewing & Garment Construction (CD-207) will no longer be offered as part of the Sewing Certificate Program requirements.

Students will complete the updated certificate pathway through Sewing Essentials (CD-592), Intermediate Sewing (CD-198), and Intermediate Sewing II.

Students who have questions about how these curriculum changes affect their certificate requirements are encouraged to contact Serene Gil by email at [email protected].

Who Should Take This Program?

The Sewing Certificate Program is designed for anyone who wants to develop or strengthen their sewing and garment construction skills, including:

Beginners seeking to develop foundational sewing skills through a structured, hands-on learning experience.
Sewing enthusiasts and aspiring fashion designers looking to strengthen garment construction and finishing techniques.
Individuals preparing for careers or further education in fashion design and the apparel industry.
Makers, entrepreneurs, and small business owners interested in creating custom garments or developing sewing-based businesses.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the Sewing Certificate Program, students will be able to:

Select appropriate fabrics, interfacing, trims, and notions, and apply knowledge of fabric grain for effective garment construction.
Interpret and use commercial sewing patterns to accurately prepare, mark, cut, and construct garments.
Apply industry-standard sewing, pressing, seam finishing, and garment finishing techniques to create high-quality apparel.
Construct professional garment details, including collars, cuffs, plackets, hems, buttonholes, and closures with accuracy and precision.

Program Structure

The Sewing Certificate Program includes three required courses for a total of 90 hours of hands-on instruction. Upon successful completion of the program requirements, students will receive the Sewing Certificate.

CD 592 Sewing Essentials (30 hours): The foundational course introduces the fundamental skills of garment construction, including fabric grain, seam construction, seam finishes, hand-sewing techniques, pattern reading and layout, and professional pressing methods to construct pajama pants. No prior sewing experience is required for Sewing Essentials.
CD 198 Intermediate Sewing I (30 hours): Students will learn to interpret commercial sewing patterns, install zippers, construct pockets, and assemble a fully lined unisex vest while developing accuracy, precision, and industry-standard sewing practices.
Available soon! Intermediate Sewing II (30 hours): Students will develop advanced garment construction skills by selecting appropriate materials, interpreting commercial patterns, and applying professional sewing techniques to construct a tailored shirt featuring a yoke, collar and cuff details, sleeve plackets, set-in sleeves, buttonholes, and refined finishing methods.

All are welcome to enroll in any class as an elective course for enjoyment without being part of the certificate program.

Students with prior sewing experience who wish to request a waiver for Sewing Essentials may submit 2–3 photos of completed sewing projects to Serene Gil at [email protected] for review. Submitted work should demonstrate the skill sets of the Sewing Essential course. Our instructors will review the projects and determine appropriate course placement.

If you have questions, please call 201-447-7488 or email [email protected].