FAQ

Q: What are your store hours?
A:  The store is open 10a – 6p Tu-Sat and  12-4p Sun.

Q:  When are your classes and how much do they cost?
A:  The bulk of the classes are in the evenings from 6p-9p.  Most are 3 hours and cost $50.  You can find specific days on our Class Schedule page.  PS. You’ll always leave with a finished project!  

Q:  How many students are in a class?
A:  Only 4! That way everyone gets as much attention as they need and leave knowing they’ve had all their questions answered.   

Q:  Do I have to have a sewing machine to take a class?
A:  Not at all!  We have sewing machines for your use.  However, if you own a machine I encourage you to bring it, I’ll help you figure it out! 

Q:  I want to buy a sewing machine – what kind should I get? 
A:  There are a lot of machines out there and not one machine will work for everyone.  My recommendation is that if you are a new sewer you don’t need to spend a ton of mullah on an expensive machine – most basic machines will have all the stitches you’ll need to get started.  That said, a lot of brands have started cranking out cheaper machines as sewing becomes more and more popular.  Watch out for the machines under $100 at Target and Walmart as they won’t be able to sew through much thickness and are generally “lightweights”.  There is nothing worse than a cheap machine to discourage a new sewist!  I recommend spending at least $150 for a new machine.  If you want to spend less, there are plenty of older, well maintained used machines out there.  Keep an eye out for garage sales, craigslist, eBay, sewing shops, etc.  People often buy machines and never use them!   KWIK SEW has a great article on buying a sewing machine.  http://www.kwiksew.com/resources/default.cfm 

Q:  Where do I get my machine fixed? 
A:  I recommend Gratz Sewing in Plymouth, 10100 6^th Ave. N. #123, Plymouth (off Hwy 55 and 169) www.gratzsewing.com.  This is a 3^rd generation family owned business and I take ALL my machines there.  (I also bought all of the studio’s machines there!) 

Q:  I’ve never used a sewing machine before.  What classes do you recommend I take?
A:  Sewing Essentials starts at the very beginning.  If you’ve never sat down at a sewing machine before – this is the class for you.  Even if it’s been a while since you’ve sewed this will be a good refresher for you.  You’ll learn how to thread the machine, load the bobbin, and learn what to do when things go wrong with your machine.  We also cover fabric and what to look for when purchasing as well as what to avoid!  After Sewing Essentials, look for classes in the “Beginner” category, listed on both Class Description page.  

Q:  What does “Basic” Beginner” and “Intermediate” mean?
A:  Basic – You have no prior sewing experience at all or know how to thread the machine and bobbin, but that’s about it.
Beginner – You have some prior sewing experience  – completed some simple projects.
Intermediate – You have completed several projects including a few commercial patterns and are looking to learn more complex tricks. 

Q:  Do you sell gift cards?
A:  Of course!  You can even purchase one on the store’s Etsy site.  

Q:  Where are you located?  
A:  Sewtropolis is located at 5 West Diamond Lake Road in South Minneapolis.  We are one block west of The Museum of Russian Art, across the street from the Holiday gas station.   

Q:  Do you have parking?
A:  Yes, please park on the West side of the building.  There is also parking behind the store.    

Q:  I love your fabrics, but can’t get to the store, can you ship fabric to me?
A:  Of course!  All of our fabrics are sold through our Etsy shop at www.sewtropolis.etsy.com  The inventory is constantly rotating so check back often.  We can send any amount of yardage you need to just about anywhere!  

Q: OK, I want to take one of your classes, what is your Class Policy?
A:  Please stop in or give us a call (612-827-9550) to register for a class.  Full payment is due when you sign up.  Class fees are payable by cash, Visa, Mastercard or Discover.

Upon registration you will receive the class supply and material list.  Class registrants receive 10% off of class materials purchased at the store.  Unless noted, supplies and materials are not included in class fee.   

Q:  Oh no!  I signed up for a class but now I can’t make it.  What is your Cancelation Policy? 
A:  Sorry, there are no refunds for missed classes.  If you cancel at least 5 days in advance you may reschedule for a different session.  

Q:  My daughter, son, mom, grandma, significant other has a birthday coming up.  Do you host parties?  
A:  Nobody loves a sewing party more than we do!  We are able to host small groups such as Girl Scout Troops, birthday parties (for all ages of sewers), sewing or quilt guilds, 4-H, Home Ec., etc.  Call the store for prices and to schedule your party.

Q: My girlfriends and I are looking for a fun night out, have any suggestions?
A:  There’s nothing more fun then getting a group of girlfriends together for a fun-night-in.  Sewtropolis is the perfect place for girlfriends to gather and get creative!  Come with your projects or talk to me about project ideas – how about a “Bag Lady Party” or “Baby Shower Gifts” or “Retro Kitchen Night”…. the possiblities are endless.  Give me a call to discuss your ideas and pricing.