Run Fabric Classes In-Store in 7 Simple Steps

Do you love fabric and sewing? Have you turned this passion into a successful business? Have you wondered how to get started with running classes in your fabric store?

If you answered yes, you’re in the right place.

Running in-store fabric classes offers numerous benefits, both personally and professionally. Here are some key advantages:

Community engagement: Engage with local quilting enthusiasts to build strong community relationships and increase loyalty, aligning with community-oriented values.
Additional revenue stream: Gain extra revenue through class fees and product sales when participants purchase additional fabric and tools.
Inventory management: Drive interest in new items by showcasing specific fabrics and tools during classes. Utilize your existing stock and excess inventory to balance your inventory management.
Business efficiency: Introduce structured class schedules to balance teaching with other business operations while improving your quilting skills through the teaching process.
Marketing and branding: Market classes through social media and word of mouth to attract new customers and strengthen your brand.
Personal fulfillment: Share your passion for quilting, providing a deep sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Overall, running in-store fabric classes not only enhances the success of your quilting business, but also enriches your personal and professional life as a quilt shop owner.

Get ready to take your love and knowledge of the industry and share it with others. In this blog, we’ll walk you through seven simple steps to set up fabric classes in your store.

Step #1: Identify Your Audience

It’s important to know who you’re teaching and their experience level. Are they beginners, intermediate, or advanced? Knowing their experience level helps you better meet their needs in each type of class.

Your audience will likely have a variety of needs. There are many different classes you can offer, such as introductory quilting, advanced techniques, or specific projects like making a quilted bag. Choosing classes that align with your audience’s needs will be most successful for you.

Tailored learning is important because the needs of your students will change. Make sure you give your students the most value you can offer from your expertise. Additionally, consider incorporating elements of community-building into your classes — like group projects and sharing sessions — where students can learn from each other’s experiences.

By understanding your students’ levels and interests, you can create a supportive and engaging learning environment that not only presents valuable skills, but encourages a sense of community among quilters. This will enhance the overall experience and encourage repeat attendance, helping your classes thrive.

Step #2: Develop a Curriculum

Once you know who you're teaching, the next step is to create a curriculum for engaging lessons. Set up a structure for how each class will run and what techniques and strategies you will cover. A well-planned curriculum not only ensures that all necessary skills are taught, but keeps students motivated and excited to learn.

Create a structured yet flexible curriculum for each class. Consider that your class audience might be a mix of beginners and advanced quilters. In this case, your curriculum can include a section where you review quilting basics for beginners and then move on to advanced techniques for more experienced quilters. This approach ensures that everyone gains value from the class, regardless of their skill level.

It's important to create a detailed plan before each lesson, as this helps maintain the flow and structure of the class. Outline key points, techniques to be covered, and any materials needed. However, be willing to pivot when necessary to better meet the needs of your students. For example, if you notice that a particular technique is challenging for several students, take the time to revisit and clarify it.

Gathering feedback from your students can also be incredibly valuable. Ask for their input on which topics they found most useful and which areas they feel need more focus. This feedback will help you continually refine your curriculum to better serve your students' needs.

By having a well-organized yet adaptable curriculum, you'll create a supportive and effective learning environment that keeps students engaged and coming back for more.

Step #3: Gather All Necessary Materials

Next, gather all the essential tools and supplies needed for the class. Some classes might require more materials than others, so providing a detailed checklist of what’s needed for each class is highly beneficial. This checklist ensures that both you and your attendees are well-prepared.

As the business owner, you may decide to provide some materials for attendees while requiring them to bring other supplies themselves. Clearly outline which materials will be provided and which ones attendees need to bring. This transparency helps attendees come prepared and prevents any last-minute surprises.

Organization is key to this step. Plan ahead to ensure you have enough inventory in stock for the class or for purchase. Consider using overstock inventory to balance your inventory management effectively. This approach not only helps in reducing excess stock, but introduces attendees to products they might not have considered purchasing otherwise.

Additionally, think about the potential for upselling during the class. Highlighting specific fabrics, tools, or kits that enhance the learning experience can lead to additional sales. Providing special class discounts on these items can also encourage attendees to make purchases.

Having a plan and being organized will help the class and business operations run more smoothly. Consider setting up stations with all necessary materials before the class begins to create a seamless experience for your attendees. This attention to detail will enhance their overall satisfaction and reflect positively on your shop’s professionalism.

Step #4: Promote Your Fabric Classes

Once you have a plan and the materials, it is time to start promoting your in-store fabric classes. Getting the word out about the classes held in your store is crucial for attracting attendees and ensuring your classes are a success.

There are several avenues you can explore to spread the word about your classes. Consider trying some of the following:

Word of mouth: Encourage your current customers and class attendees to spread the word to their friends and family. You can even offer referral incentives for those who bring new students to your classes.
Email marketing: Utilize your email list to announce upcoming classes. Send targeted emails to past customers who have shown an interest in quilting or attended previous classes. Include engaging content and strong calls-to-action to encourage sign-ups.
In-store promotions: Display attractive posters and flyers in your fabric shop to catch the eye of walk-in customers. Have a printed schedule of upcoming classes available at the checkout counter for customers to take home. Consider offering in-store sign-up discounts to encourage immediate registration.
Social media: Use platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest to promote your classes. Share engaging content (like photos and videos of past classes), student testimonials, and sneak peeks of upcoming projects. Use social media advertising to reach a broader audience.
Local ads and bulletins: Place ads in local newspapers, magazines, and community bulletin boards. Participate in local events and fairs to hand out flyers and talk to potential students about your classes.
Online presence: Having a strong online presence is a must, as many people look online for specific needs and classes. Ensure your website is up to date with class schedules and easy online registration. List your classes on local event websites and community bulletin boards.

By leveraging a variety of promotional strategies, you can maximize your outreach and ensure your in-store fabric classes are well-attended. Integrating marketing methods will create a comprehensive plan that resonates with your target audience and drives enrollment.

Step 5: Set Up Your Space

Now the time has come to set up the space for your class. It’s important to create a comfortable learning environment that is inviting and functional. Arrange your space so that all attendees can easily see and hear demonstrations. Ensure there is enough room for the number of attendees, providing each with their own workspace.

Consider the following tips to enhance the setup:

Visibility and acoustics: Position tables and chairs so everyone has a clear view of the instructor and can hear clearly.
Comfort: Ensure seats are comfortable and the room is well-lit and ventilated.
Accessibility: Make sure the space is easily accessible for all attendees, including those with mobility issues.
Tools and materials: Set up stations with all necessary tools and materials within easy reach.

By focusing on these details, you’ll create an efficient and welcoming environment that enhances the learning experience for your attendees.

Step 6: Teach and Engage With Students

Now that you have your space set up and your materials ready, it's time to teach and engage with your students. Use a variety of teaching strategies to keep your students motivated and excited about quilting. Demonstrate techniques clearly, provide hands-on assistance, and encourage questions to ensure everyone is following along.

Here are some teaching strategies to keep students excited and motivated:

Incorporate fun projects: Choose projects that are fun and achievable, allowing students to see quick results and stay motivated.
Use visual aids: Utilize visual aids and step-by-step demonstrations to make complex techniques easier to understand.
Break down techniques: Simplify complex techniques into manageable steps to help students build confidence.
Encourage creativity: Allow students to personalize their projects, fostering creativity and ownership of their work.
Provide positive feedback: Offer constructive and positive feedback to boost confidence and encourage progress.
Create a collaborative environment: Encourage students to work together and share their tips and experiences.

And here are some additional tips:

Be approachable: Create an open and friendly atmosphere where students feel comfortable asking for help.
Encourage participation: Promote an interactive environment by encouraging students to share their experiences and tips.
Adapt to student needs: Be flexible and willing to adjust your teaching approach based on the needs and feedback of your students.

By teaching effectively and engaging with your students, you'll create a positive and enriching learning experience that keeps them coming back for more.

Step 7: Collect Feedback and Improve

After your class is completed, collect feedback and look for areas to improve. Learning from feedback is crucial for continuous improvement and helps you refine your teaching methods and class structure.

To gather actionable insights, consider using feedback forms or surveys that attendees can fill out at the end of the class. Ask specific questions about what they enjoyed and what could be improved. You can also encourage open-ended comments for more detailed feedback.

Be sure to review the feedback carefully and identify common themes or suggestions. Implementing changes based on student input will not only enhance future classes, but show your commitment to providing the best possible learning experience.

By actively seeking and acting on feedback, you'll create a cycle of continuous improvement that benefits both you and your students.

Enhance Your In-Store Fabric Classes With LikeSew

Running in-store fabric classes can significantly enhance your quilting business by building community engagement, generating additional revenue, and improving inventory management.

By following the seven simple steps outlined in this blog — identifying your audience, developing a curriculum, gathering necessary materials, promoting your classes, setting up your space, teaching and engaging with students, and collecting feedback — you can create a successful and uplifting learning environment.

LikeSew helps streamline this process by offering integrated tools for class management, inventory tracking, and marketing. With this software, you can easily organize your class schedules, manage your inventory, and promote your classes through various channels, ensuring a seamless and professional experience for both you and your students.

By leveraging LikeSew's comprehensive software, you can focus more on sharing your passion for quilting and less on administrative tasks, ultimately enhancing both your business and personal fulfillment.

If you would like to learn more about how LikeSew can benefit your business, request a demo to get started.