Youth Sewing Teacher; Part-Time

Making It Sew Fun — Part-Time Sewing Instructor

Making It Sew Fun is seeking a part-time Sewing Instructor who is engaging, warm, and passionate about teaching the art of sewing. This is an exciting opportunity to inspire the next generation of sewists and share a meaningful, lifelong skill with young learners on Chicago's South Side.

The ideal candidate brings intermediate to advanced sewing skills and a genuine love for working with children and teens. You should be comfortable reading and explaining commercial and PDF sewing patterns, performing pattern alterations and fittings, and breaking down complex sewing concepts into clear, accessible language. Experience managing a group class of 5 to 6 students simultaneously is required.

• Open and close the studio according to established procedures
• Communicate sewing concepts with enthusiasm, clarity, and patience
• Demonstrate how to operate classroom sewing machines and equipment
• Demonstrate how to use sewing patterns, prepare fabric, and guide students through pinning and cutting
• Assist students in reading, understanding, and executing sewing techniques
• Conduct fittings and demonstrate pattern alterations
• Ensure safe and appropriate use of all sewing equipment and tools
• Record attendance and complete student evaluation sheets
• Notify parents of supplies needed for upcoming classes

• Minimum five years of sewing experience, personal or professional
• Ability to read and work from commercial and PDF sewing patterns
• Experience altering patterns for different body variations
• Understanding of sewing math and use of sewing tools
• Genuine enthusiasm for working with children and teens
• Ability to break down complex sewing concepts into clear, accessible language
• Skill in using multiple teaching approaches for different learning styles
• Ability to listen for cues of student understanding and adjust instruction accordingly
• Ability to actively engage students and build a relationship of trust
• One year of teaching or training experience preferred

Tuesdays 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Saturdays from 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Compensation: $20–$25 per hour, commensurate with experience. Candidates new to our curriculum will begin in a supported training role at $20/hour. Instructors who demonstrate readiness to lead classes independently will advance to $25/hour.