The Sewing Labs

Embark on a journey toward a rewarding career or entrepreneurial venture in the field of sewing with The Sewing Salon Training Program at The Sewing Labs. This comprehensive 20-month program involves 30 weeks of immersive, hands-on sewing instruction on both domestic and industrial machines. After completion of the 30 week training, you will then move into an apprenticeship opportunity with a local Kansas City business for the remaining 12 months or until you've accumulated 2,000 on-the-job hours. The Sewing Labs is a recognized Registered Apprenticeship Host and Training provider, authorized by the United States and Missouri Department of Labor.

Upon successful completion of this apprenticeship program, sewists will earn various certificates, including The Sewing Labs Certificate in Domestic Sewing Skills, Certificate in Industrial Sewing Skills, and the US DOL Certificate of Apprenticeship. These certificates serve as a significant achievement for students and enhance their resumes, whether they are pursuing employment or entrepreneurship.

Salon Program Highlights:

• Instruction in essential sewing fundamentals covering measuring, marking, cutting, and construction techniques
• Industrial production methods
• Guided site tours of local businesses actively seeking Industrial Sewing Machine Operators
• Comprehensive tool kits: Domestic tool kit, Rotary Cutting Kit, Industrial Add-on Kit, Reference Book, and handouts
• Participants will engage in in-class work, lab activities, portfolio creation with work samples, testing, and work evaluations.

All participants must go through an entrance interview and assessment for program acceptance. This program is currently funded by a grant through the Missouri Department of Economic Development.