School of Fashion Design: Info Session & Tour with Live Demos!

Join us Saturday, October 3rd from 10AM - 12PM, for an engaging and free info session and tour of our studios! Enjoy live teacher demonstrations for some of our courses such as sketching, French draping, and CAD (Computer Aided Design). Learn about our professional, workshop, and high school programs! See our studio spaces and chat with our staff! FREE with registration.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.schooloffashiondesign.org/sfdtour">RSVP HERE</a>. The School of Fashion Design is an official participant in Handwork 2026.&nbsp; Organized and sponsored by the PBS National "Craft in America" program, Handwork is a year-long semiquincentennial collaboration among organizations, educators, and makers to showcase the importance of the handmade and celebrate the diversity of the crafts that define America.

The School of Fashion Design

A Proper Fit: Women at Work in a City of Corsets 

Calling all well-dressed and well-read friends! Join us at the School of Fashion Design for a presentation and conversation with local author and researcher Anne Marie Murphy as we celebrate the release of her latest book, A Proper Fit: Women at Work in a City of Corsets. Drawing on decades of experience as a researcher and small business owner, Murphy uncovers the stories of the women entrepreneurs and workers who helped shape Worcester MA into a center of corset manufacturing.&nbsp; Join us and discover how fashion, business, and women's history intersect.&nbsp; What people are saying about A Proper Fit: Women at Work in a City of Corsets: "Murphy’s exhaustive research feels rollicking and joyful. She tells the stories of enterprising women we would have loved to meet for drinks after work. This book is historical yet fresh, and even a little dishy. Following these women who found their fortunes in garments that were meant to control and restrain them is a fist-pumping adventure." - Kathleen Doyle, Costume Designer Jay Calderin, founder of Boston Fashion Week,&nbsp;often remarks that "Boston fashion is smart."&nbsp;The School of Fashion Design is proud to participate in this year's Boston Fashion Week with a nod to Jay's homage to important fashion literature. We look forward to welcoming our smart and sartorial guests for refreshments and conversation in our fashion reference library. Copies of A Proper Fit: Women at Work in a City of Corsets&nbsp;will be available for purchase.

Weave Your Own Fall Scarf Workshop

Be ready for fall with a scarf of your own making! Join our introductory weaving workshop for a hands-on experience exploring the joy of handcrafting and the timeless art of weaving. Using a rigid heddle loom and the clasped weft technique, you’ll create a unique designer scarf featuring stunning staggered color blocks and rich texture. Along the way, learn about yarn composition and how it transforms the look and feel of your finished piece. Leave with a stylish, one-of-a-kind accessory designed and woven by you. A perfect way to refresh your fall/winter wardrobe or create a thoughtful handmade gift. About the teacher: Dahlia Popovits is an internationally recognized textile artist and master weaver with nearly 50 years of experience designing and creating award-winning handwoven clothing and accessories. Her work showcases an exceptional commitment to craftsmanship, utilizing the finest natural materials sourced from artisanal suppliers worldwide. Her distinctive weaving techniques blend traditional loom work with innovative, contemporary design sensibilities.

Denim Remade & Reimagined Workshop

Give old denim a new life! In this hands-on upcycling workshop, learn creative techniques for transforming discarded jeans and fabrics into vibrant, one-of-a-kind garments. Create your own top, tunic, or dress while exploring the possibilities of sustainable fashion and imaginative reuse. Prerequisite: Students should know how to operate a sewing machine with ease. About the teacher: With a passion for art and a keen eye for beauty in the discarded, Sharon Chandler is the spark behind Marigold Studio. Sharon has spent her life learning multiple art techniques as a fiber/textile artist. In 2022, Sharon's work caught the eye of actress Chloe Sevigny, who commissioned a piece. Sharon's work was then featured in the April 2023 edition of British Vogue. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art Education from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth and a Master of Education from Fitchburg State University, Sharon is not only an artist, she brings over 40 years of art education expertise to her craft. Drawing from global travels to roadside discoveries, she meticulously curates deadstock fabric, artifacts, and salvaged pieces. Sharon's unique talent lies in her ability to piece together fabric scraps, weaving captivating stories through her creations.

Beading & Embroidery Workshop

Unleash your inner artist just in time for the holidays! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn and practice essential embroidery and beading techniques—then put them to creating a unique decorative project to take home. Whether you're making a gift for a loved one or treating yourself, you’ll leave with a beautifully decorated piece and the skills to keep creating long after class ends. Perfect for all skill levels! About the teacher: Lisa has extensive experience as a theatrical costumer working in professional theatres across the country. She has taught fashion and theatre based classes in the Boston area since 1989. In 1992 she launched her Very Eclectic Clothing line of hand-painted clothing and accessories. Today, Very Eclectic is a thriving collection of hand-painted scarves, yarn, shawl pins, and buttons sold online and at fine craft and fiber shows throughout the Northeast.

Tumbling Block Shirt Workshop

Give your wardrobe a couture upgrade! Update a button-down shirt with this modern couture technique for a fresh look! Students will take a plain Ready To Wear shirt and add Tumbling Blocks to create a unique garment that showcases your sewing and piecing skills. With this workshop there’s no need to fuss with fitting a shirt, easing the sleeve heads, sewing buttons and buttonholes. We’ll jump right to the fun part: embellishing the shirt to make a fashion statement! About the teacher: Ellen has a deep passion for sewing elegant clothing, ranging from simple to ornate designs. With a wealth of experience as a couture seamstress and a seasoned teacher of fashion construction at the college level, Ellen authored the book "Creating Couture Embellishments," published by Laurence King Publishing, London, in August 2017. Since founding her company, Ellen Miller, Seamstress, in 1983, she has tailored and created custom garments for numerous discerning clients. Ellen approaches each design as a unique challenge to transform concepts into wearable works of art.

Upcycled “Ugly” Holiday Sweater Workshop

Join us for this fun creative workshop to make your own upcycled "Ugly Holiday Sweater" for the season's festivities! Explore creativity, sustainability, and holiday fun through the art of upcycling. Using scrap fabrics, trims, and embellishments, you will create your own “ugly” holiday sweater — we think they’re wonderful! — transforming textile waste into wearable whimsy. Learn practical techniques in material reuse, garment alteration, and decorative embellishment while engaging in a larger conversation about sustainability in fashion. By the end of the workshop, students will · Understand basic principles of upcycling and creative reuse, · Gain experience in combining materials for both aesthetic and environmental impact · Strengthen basic sewing and embellishment skills, · Complete a personalized “Ugly Sweater” to wear or gift for the holidays! Prerequisite Expectations: Basic sewing skills Comfort using a sewing machine About the teacher: Michelle Dunn has a background in Product Management, Quality &amp; Sustainability with over a decade of experience. She brings a unique blend of creative vision and systems thinking to every stage of the product lifecycle—from ideation and construction to sustainability strategy and quality assurance. She is deeply curious, data-driven, and passionate about building scalable solutions that empower teams, delight customers, and drive responsible innovation. Michelle's creative passions including sewing, painting, ceramics, and jewelry design, and making weekly lasagnas for a charity that provides meals to families in need.

Now Enrolling for Summer 2026 High School Program

This program is ideal for teenagers&nbsp;(in grades 9-12)&nbsp;interested in fashion design! This course is an excellent opportunity from them to develop their sewing and sketching skills. Two sessions are available during our summer semester. SESSION I: July 6th to July 27th SESSION II: July 29th to August 19th Both are on Mondays &amp; Wednesday from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM. We offer two levels: Regular &amp; Advanced (for students who have taken the regular level in the past). Register today or email <a href="mailto:admissions@sfdboston.org">admissions@sfdboston.org</a> to get started! <a href="https://www.schooloffashiondesign.org/pre-college-program">Click here to learn more and register!</a>

Short Course in Sustainable Fashion: Design, Impact, and Practice

This seven-session short course is designed for fashion students, emerging designers, and creatives seeking a structured yet accessible introduction to sustainability in apparel design. The course emphasizes shorter, focused lectures paired with hands-on activities, allowing students to immediately apply concepts during each session. The course explores sustainability across the full lifecycle of a garment—from design and production through distribution, use, and reuse. Each session builds progressively, reinforcing learning through applied exercises and collaborative discussion. Note: there is a break between Part 1 and Part 2 of the course during which time students will be given a short assignment. Part 1:&nbsp;6/10, 6/17, 6/24 Part 2:&nbsp;7/15, 7/22, 7/29, 8/5 Students will: • Understand key environmental and social challenges within the fashion industry • Apply lifecycle thinking to garment design decisions • Explore practical strategies for responsible design, production, and use • Experiment with inclusive, modular, and upcycling-based approaches • Develop design concepts that balance creativity, functionality, and sustainability

Lunch and Learn: Personal Branding 101

Personal Branding 101: Telling Your Story and Building Your Professional Presence Whether you're launching a fashion career, changing industries, or redefining your professional identity, this workshop will help you discover how to communicate who you are with confidence and authenticity. Join photographer and personal brand strategist <a href="https://www.kimconant.com/">Kim Conant</a> and writer Beth Knaus as they share practical strategies for defining what you want to be known for, crafting your unique message, and talking about your work without feeling like you're "selling yourself." Perfect for anyone ready to take the next step in their creative journey!

Sashiko Stitches Japanese Mending Workshop

Immerse yourself in the art and history of Sashiko, a traditional Japanese stitching technique rooted in practicality and beauty. Learn Sashiko's origins and its cultural significance as a form of mending, storytelling, and creative expression. Then, roll up your sleeves for a hands-on workshop where you’ll learn to master this timeless technique. Whether you're new to sewing or a seasoned artisan, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for this heritage craft—and your very own Sashiko masterpiece. Let’s honor AAPI heritage through art and tradition—reserve your spot today! <a href="https://schooloffashiondesign.asapconnected.com/#CourseID=306940">Register HERE.</a>

Tatted Lace Making Workshop

Discover the timeless art of creating tatted lace in this hands-on workshop! Students will explore the perfect threads, tools, and essential terminology needed to bring their designs to life. You will learn foundational stitches and be ready to craft your own lace designs—whether it’s delicate ornaments, jewelry, or elegant trims to elevate your wardrobe. The morning will consist of an introduction to the instructor, terminology and technique. The afternoon will be practicing the stitches and following patterns. <a href="https://schooloffashiondesign.asapconnected.com/#CourseID=298310">REGISTER HERE.</a> ﻿This workshop is part of Handwork 2026, presented by Craft in America.

Embroidery for Mental Health and Wellness Workshop

Learn how embroidery can be a tactile self soothing tool for anxiety, ADHD, or general well-being! Join us to create a tactile soothing article of clothing for you or someone you care about. In this workshop, fashion meets inclusivity and sustainability. Be a part of engaging discussions on inclusive design practices, and learn embroidery techniques that prioritize wellbeing and comfort. Through insightful discussions, hands-on activities, and expert instruction, students will work towards a final project: creating their own recycled, embroidered piece. Saturday, April 11th&nbsp; 9:00am - 12:00pm <a href="https://schooloffashiondesign.asapconnected.com/#CourseID=302927">Register here.</a> ﻿This workshop is part of Handwork 2026, presented by Craft in America.

Mastering Tech Packs Workshop

If you're a brand owner, fashion designer, in retail or manufacturing and involved in apparel product development, your success hinges on garments that fit and satisfy customers. Master essential technical skills like proper fit techniques and quality standards. Improve communication with factories worldwide using clear industry terminology. Learn to establish quality specifications for prototypes, minimizing fit adjustments and reducing costs. This course is ideal for patternmakers, designers, and product developers looking to enhance their work methods. Basic knowledge of the apparel design process is recommended. Students should bring a tape measure and a crew neck t-shirt to be used as a sample product. About the Instructor: Boye "Bibi" Asenuga is the Founder and Creative Director of ChicNiCity, a women’s ready-to-wear brand that blends heritage-rich prints with modern versatility. A Nigerian-American designer, Bibi launched ChicNiCity to offer premium, statement-making clothing that seamlessly fits into a dynamic lifestyle. With over 15 years of experience, she has collaborated with leading global brands to develop collections sold in major retailers worldwide, culminating in ChicNiCity’s exclusive collection for HSN, a Fortune 500 retail giant. Beyond her brand, Bibi is an Apparel Development and Production Consultant and the founder of Behind the Seams Apparel.

Couture Leather Flowers Workshop

Join us for a hands-on workshop where you'll craft beautiful leather flower accessories using both classic and modern techniques. Learn how to shape and assemble every part of the flower, and leave with a collection of handmade blooms uniquely your own. Make as many flowers as time allows—and walk away with the knowledge, skills, and resource list to continue creating at home! <a href="https://schooloffashiondesign.asapconnected.com/#CourseID=316575">Register HERE.</a>

S22: conversations

Wondering what to do in Boston? Places to eat? Free activities? Good for a group? Date night spot? Girls night out? The best things to do? Ask Joyraft!

Best places to go in Boston? Things to do? Places to eat?

Questions & answers about things to do in Boston

Recs 💬

Community recs 💬

S4: top picks

The most fun, cool and unique things to do in Boston. Can’t miss events, shows and experiences. Concerts, restaurants, bars, free things in Boston and beyond.

The most fun and cool events happening around Boston

Hot and new things to do in Boston

Hot & new

Hot & new 🔥

S11: happening this weekend

What to do in Boston this weekend? From festivals, concerts, performances, free events, screenings and more, Joyraft has the best things to do in Boston.

25+ things to do in Boston/Cambridge/Somerville this weekend

Things to do in Boston this weekend

This wknd

This weekend for you

S21: roundups

Our top picks: outdoor dining, free events, spring festivals, best bars, upcoming concerts, museum parties - the latest in and around Boston.  Slug: joyraft-top-picks-best-things-to-do-boston-ma

Top picks of the best things to do in and around Boston

Joyraft picks: Boston’s best things to do

Roundups ⭐️

Curated by Joyraft ⭐️

S28: calendar experiences

This week in Boston

This week in Boston 📆

This week 📆

S20: c+d experiences

Discover new, unique events and experiences happening in and around Boston. Perfect for date night, good for a group or with a friend. Be the first to know.

The newest events happening in and around Boston

The newest events on Joyraft

Just added

Just added to Joyraft

S16: editor picks

The most unique and can’t miss things coming up in Boston / Cambridge / Somerville and beyond. Festivals, food, drinks, fairs, concerts, art and free activities.

Unique and Can’t Miss Things to Do in Boston

Can’t-miss things to do in Boston 🚨

Can't-miss things to do 🚨

S2 (A): top experiences

The most popular things to do on Joyraft. Concerts, restaurants, bars, events, parties, openings, kid friendly, date ideas, free things in Boston and beyond.

Top 20 things to do in Boston

Top 20: Joyraft’s most popular

Top 20

Top 20 on Joyraft

S3 (A): trending experiences

Discover can’t miss events and things to do in Boston. The most fun, unique and cool events coming to the Boston area this spring and summer.

The hottest events happening in Boston

Trending events on Joyraft

Trending 📈

S19: interest based

Kid-friendly events in Boston

S18: interest based

Where to eat and drink in Boston? Joyraft has Boston’s newest bars, restaurants and specials. Drinks and pre fixe dinner menus. Cambridge & Somerville too.

sfdbos

Experiences