Dressmaker Sewing Retreat 2026
Price range: $0.00 through $595.00
JOIN ME!
♥ 3 Days at Comfort Suites in Corvallis OR
♥ Learn efficient fitting and assembly systems
♥ Personalized individual instruction
♥ Work at your own pace with project of choice
♥ Catered lunch each day
♥ Group photos
♥ Small class with limited enrollment
♥ Special Facebook Group for continued support
♥ Make NEW sewing friends
♥ Payment Plan Available
You’ll be glad you came!
Choose between 1) Payment in Full or 2) Installment Plan
Important Payment Policy Information
Payment plan participants are responsible for completing all scheduled payments by September 1. If a participant chooses not to complete their payment plan, payments already made are non-refundable unless their reserved spot can be filled by someone on the waitlist. If a waitlisted participant takes the spot, a refund may be considered, according to our refund policy.
Description
2026 Garment Sewing Retreat
Register now for the 2026 Dressmaker Retreat!
This garment sewing retreat is designed to give you dedicated, focused time to improve your dressmaking and garment sewing skills. You’ll work alongside others who share your interest in fit, construction, and handmade clothing, while receiving personalized 1:1 guidance. Together, this creates a productive, supportive learning environment where you can build confidence and refine your sewing techniques.
FOR 3 DAYS YOU GET:
Personalized instruction and individual feedback on your project
Learn garment fitting and construction systems you can trust and use for life
Hands-on guidance in construction techniques and fit adjustments, with support tailored to your needs
Time to work at your own pace with support exactly when you need it
A focused time to sew, with catered lunch and long stretches of uninterrupted time at the machine
Gain insight from watching others problem-solve fitting and construction decisions
Invitation to the Vintage Girl Facebook group for continued connection after the retreat
Retreat Details:
Dates: Thursday–Saturday, September 24–26, 2026
Daily Schedule:
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (lunch included)
Dinner: On your own
Location:
Comfort Suites Corvallis
1730 NW 9th St, Corvallis, OR
Skill Level:
Beginner (with experience) to advanced
Optional Evening “Sit & Sew”
5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Evening Themes:
Thursday: Get-to-know-you gathering
Friday: Classic fashion movie night
Saturday: Farewell wrap-up, project finishing, and clean-up
What’s Provided:
Tables and chairs, power strips
Irons, ironing boards, and pressing equipment
Instructional support and materials as needed
What to Bring:
Sewing machine
Tools and project materials
Plan for your project in advanced (Very important!)
COST: $595
Registration closes September 1, 2026. Questions? Call 541-929-9000.
BASIC SCHEDULE:
Day 1 — Foundation + Preparation
After introductions, we begin with a project overview and presentation introducing an 8-step system for cutting to fit. This method provides built-in checks and balances for evaluating pattern fit before cutting into fabric. Because preparation is the most important stage, this system sets the pace for the days ahead and establishes a clear, structured workflow. While everyone works at their own pace, the goal is to finish the day with your pattern prepared, cut, and ready for construction.
Day 2 — Construction + Assembly
As we move into garment construction, we use a “blocking method” for assembly that supports efficient use of time at the sewing machine while maintaining control over fit and construction. This stage focuses on building the garment in structured sections as it begins to take shape. You will apply core sewing techniques along with a fit-as-you-go approach, allowing for thoughtful adjustments as construction progresses.
Day 3 — Finishing + Refinement
The goal is to complete your garment—or bring it to a near-complete stage—so the work you’ve started can be easily finished at home. These professional methods form a reliable system you can apply to all future projects.
Evening Themes
After dinner every evening we will continue our work a the machine, but with light hearted and easy activities that allow for social time, interaction, comradery, and sharing with each other. Day one will be a question box where we will take turns answering get-to-know-you questions. Day 2 we will preview a fun fashion oriented movie, and Day 3 will be focused on last minute mini lessons we don’t want to miss before clean up.
TRANSPORTATION/LODGING INFORMATION
Air Travel
Portland International Airport (PDX)
PDX is an international airport with the widest selection of airlines and car rentals. It is approximately 1.5–2 hours from Corvallis, depending on traffic. A shuttle is also available through Groome Tansportation.
Eugene Airport (EUG)
EUG is a smaller regional airport located approximately 45 minutes from Corvallis by car. It is easy to navigate but offers fewer flight options. . Click to visit the airport site. Car rental companies through EUG are available, click here. No shuttle service is available from Eugene.
Lodging
Comfort Inn & Suites is our host location
1730 Nw 9th St, Corvallis, OR 97330
866-246-3281
Comfort Suites is the host location for the retreat, including both lodging and classroom space. The meeting room is on-site and within easy walking distance for restaurants and shopping for guests staying at the hotel. There are other hotels nearby, should you prefer alternatives.
A limited 
number of discounted weekend room rates are available for retreat participants.
Room Options:
1 King room – $150 per night
2 Queen room – $160 per night
Use this booking link to reserve your discounted room rate.
CANCELLATION POLICY:
Refunds provided through Aug 24, if we can fill the spot.
2 reviews for Dressmaker Sewing Retreat 2026
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4jaynewebster –
I have attended two dressmaking retreats with Laura. Both were fun and informative. I really enjoyed the atmosphere of being at an outside site so we could focus on sewing and information for the three days without outside distractions. I enjoyed also meeting others with my sewing interests, with some lasting beyond the retreat! Laura is very experienced and enjoys sharing her knowledge and enthusiasm with others! I would definitely do this again!
Erin O’Halloran –
Each time I’ve attended the dressmaker retreat I’ve gained more knowledge and come home with a project finished. My first retreat Laura helped me custom fit the London coat dress, including learning how to do bust adjustments and how to alter patterns for my wider shoulders. She also brings various tools that can be helpful along the way. What is most helpful is when I hit a road block or don’t understand something, she is there to calmly help me through. I’ve enjoyed the social aspect and getting to see what others create. It gives me new ideas for future projects. Her husband also graciously dropped off meals so we wouldn’t have to stop 🤣. If you enjoy Laura’s patterns but are perhaps intimidated or are wanting something fit exactly to you, this is an amazing option that is worth every penny.