Sew Coastal
Surf City
Topsail Island, North Carolina
Master the art of sewing by the sea
Scroll
Surf City
Master the art of sewing by the sea
Sewing lessons for every skill level, in the heart of Topsail Island.
From your first stitch to refining advanced techniques, Sew Coastal offers personalized, one-on-one, or small group instruction in a relaxed coastal setting. Learn at your pace, build real skills and create pieces you'll actually love with confidence.
Whether you're brand new to sewing, dusting off a machine that's been sitting idle, or ready to level up your skills, Sew Coastal offers personalized, hands-on instruction for every stage of your creative journey.
Located in the laid-back coastal town of Surf City on Topsail Island, lessons are tailored to your pace, your goals, and your styleâset against a breezy, inspiring backdrop that makes learning feel effortless.
Founded and led by Barbara Wesselman, Sew Coastal blends years of sewing experience, creative design and making with a genuine love of teaching. From mastering your machine to creating projects and garments you're proud to wear, you'll be guided with patience, expertise, and encouragementâevery stitch of the way.
Classes are small (max 4), spots are limitedâsign up today!
From complete beginners to experienced sewers seeking new techniques
Private and small group sessions designed around your availability
Create in a peaceful island setting that sparks creativity
Our comprehensive sewing lessons cover everything from machine basics to advanced techniques. Each session is personalized to help you achieve your creative goals.
Mastering your sewing machine with in-depth instruction on all parts of the machine; threading, tension, stitches, bobbins and maintenance. You'll leave with the confidence to use your sewing machine like a pro, creating polished, high-quality results every time. Along the way, you'll also build a solid understanding of essential sewing notions and toolsâso you know not just how to sew, but what to use and why. Beginner or refresher class.
Private & Small Group â it starts hereMaster the essentials and build your skills with confidence. In this class, you'll learn about zipper applications, seams, hems, and basic project constructionâeverything you need to start creating with ease. It's perfect for newer sewists who are comfortable with basic machine operation or have completed Machine Parts & Functions: Fundamentals. Take the next step from basics to finished projects and start bringing your ideas to life!
Perfect for newer sewistsWhile primarily functional, pockets can also be an integral design feature that elevates a garment from ordinary to interesting. Add style and flair to anything you make. Zippers are incredibly great because they offer strong, reliable, and convenient fastening, revolutionizing clothing and gear by providing easy access, a secure closure, and even decorative elements. Leave this class with the ability to add pockets and or zippers to existing clothes as well as new creations.
Skill BuildingLearn to upcycle: artistic, sustainable, and seriously fun! âťď¸â¨ Transform your wardrobe by altering, enhancing, and restyling garments for a fresh look or the perfect fit. Whether you're breathing new life into old favorites or flipping thrifted finds into something uniquely yours, the possibilities are endless. Love thrifting? This class is for you. Give textiles a second chance, reduce waste, and express your personal style in the most creative way. Warning: this class is so much fun. đ
Sustainable FashionHands-on project classes you won't want to miss! Current offerings include a reversible bucket hat (pattern & fabric included), denim reuse projects (turn old jeans into wine bags, wallets, organizers, and more!), and wrap palazzo pants or PJ bottoms. New projects added throughout the yearâcreative, practical, and seriously fun!
Level UpNot sure which sewing class is right for you? Here's a quick guide to our skill levelsâso you can jump in with confidence. đ§ľâ¨
Start from the very beginning! Learn machine basics like threading, bobbin use, and sewing straight lines and curves. Projects include tote bags, cushions, and pajama pants.
Already comfortable with your machine? Now it's time to read simple patterns, improve seam finishes, and try techniques like zippers and buttonholes.
Confident following patterns and ready for more? Work with a variety of fabrics (including knits), refine fit and accuracy, and add details like linings and pockets.
Take your skills further with tailoring techniques, tricky fabrics (think silk and velvet), and pattern adjustments for a custom fit.
Design and create from scratch. Learn to draft your own patterns and explore advanced couture techniques for truly one-of-a-kind garments.
Wherever you are in your sewing journey, there's a place for you to learn, create, and grow. âď¸đ
Start with threading, troubleshooting, and controlling speedâyour foundation for everything that follows.
Begin with straight seams, then level up to zippers and buttonholes, followed by darts and pockets, and eventually linings for a polished finish.
Learn to follow simple patterns, move into modifying them for better fit or style, and eventually draft your own designs from scratch.
Work first with stable woven fabrics, then explore knits, and finally take on more challenging materials like bias cuts and silk.
I can't wait to see youâwhether it's your first class or you're coming back for moreâto keep the sewing magic going. âď¸â¨ Thank you for an amazing first four months of classes. It's been such a joy connecting, creating, and watching your skills grow. Here's to even more projects, creativity, and fun ahead!
Contact us directly (link below) to design classes just for you. Summer's almost hereâperfect time to pick up a skill that's making a serious comeback: sewing. Whether you team up with your teen or gather a few friends, it's a fun, creative way to learn something new (and actually useful). From customizing your wardrobe to making pieces from scratch, sewing is equal parts relaxing and rewarding. Give it a try this season!
$25 deposits required for classes
Bring your sewing machine, zipper foot, bobbins and all purpose thread (we have a few machines you may reserve if you don't have one).
Mastering your sewing machine with in-depth instruction on all parts of the machine; threading, tension, stitches, bobbins and maintenance. You'll leave with the confidence to use your sewing machine like a pro, creating polished, high-quality results every time. đ§ľâ¨ Along the way, you'll also build a solid understanding of essential sewing notions and toolsâso you know not just how to sew, but what to use and why. Beginner or refresher class.
$60Learn to upcycle: artistic, sustainable, and seriously fun! âťď¸â¨ Transform your wardrobe by altering, enhancing, and restyling garments for a fresh look or the perfect fit. Whether you're breathing new life into old favorites or flipping thrifted finds into something uniquely yours, the possibilities are endless. Love thrifting? This class is for you. Give textiles a second chance, reduce waste, and express your personal style in the most creative way. Warning: this class is so much fun. đ
$120Make your own stylish, easy-to-wear bottoms! đ⨠Choose between wraparound palazzo pants or elastic waist pants/shorts and learn how to sew pieces you'll come back to again and again. This quick, beginner-friendly project is easy to size, simple to construct, and so fun to wear. The best part? Fabric choice changes everythingâgo casual, elegant, or anywhere in between and create a look that's completely your own. Materials required (we'll share all the details before class). Get ready to sew something you'll love living in.
$70Learn to upcycle: artistic, sustainable, and seriously fun! âťď¸â¨ Transform your wardrobe by altering, enhancing, and restyling garments for a fresh look or the perfect fit. Whether you're breathing new life into old favorites or flipping thrifted finds into something uniquely yours, the possibilities are endless. Love thrifting? This class is for you. Give textiles a second chance, reduce waste, and express your personal style in the most creative way. Warning: this class is so much fun. đ
$120Mastering your sewing machine with in-depth instruction on all parts of the machine; threading, tension, stitches, bobbins and maintenance. You'll leave with the confidence to use your sewing machine like a pro, creating polished, high-quality results every time. đ§ľâ¨ Along the way, you'll also build a solid understanding of essential sewing notions and toolsâso you know not just how to sew, but what to use and why. Beginner or refresher class.
$60Master the essentials and build your skills with confidence. đ§ľâ¨ In this class, you'll learn about zipper applications, seams, hems, and basic project constructionâeverything you need to start creating with ease. It's perfect for newer sewists who are comfortable with basic machine operation or have completed Machine Parts & Functions: Fundamentals. Take the next step from basics to finished projects and start bringing your ideas to life!
$60Master the essentials and build your skills with confidence. đ§ľâ¨ In this class, you'll learn about zipper applications, seams, hems, and basic project constructionâeverything you need to start creating with ease. It's perfect for newer sewists who are comfortable with basic machine operation or have completed Machine Parts & Functions: Fundamentals. Take the next step from basics to finished projects and start bringing your ideas to life!
$60Old jeans, new life! đ⨠Bring a pair of jeans (the bigger, the betterâhello extra fabric!) and turn them into something amazing. Choose from 4+ upcycled projects like a snazzy wine bag, a pocket-packed wall organizer, a zippered denim wallet, or even a super-handy utility apron (perfect for sewing notions!). Have your own idea? Even betterâI'll help you design and draft your own custom project. You'll have time to complete up to TWO projects in class, and you'll head home with instructions for all of them. Creative, practical, and seriously funâthis is upcycling at its best!
$70Become a HATTER! đ⨠Sew your own super-fun, reversible bucket hat and style it your way. With pattern and fabric included (for one hat), you'll create a piece that's as unique as you are. Perfect for beach days, everyday wear, or gifting, this class will teach you how to size your hat, mix fabrics, and finish with clean, professional-looking details. Basic sewing machine skills requiredâjust bring your creativity and get ready to make something you'll actually want to wear!
$70Learn to upcycle: artistic, sustainable, and seriously fun! âťď¸â¨ Transform your wardrobe by altering, enhancing, and restyling garments for a fresh look or the perfect fit. Whether you're breathing new life into old favorites or flipping thrifted finds into something uniquely yours, the possibilities are endless. Love thrifting? This class is for you. Give textiles a second chance, reduce waste, and express your personal style in the most creative way. Warning: this class is so much fun. đ
$120Old jeans, new life! đ⨠Bring a pair of jeans (the bigger, the betterâhello extra fabric!) and turn them into something amazing. Choose from 4+ upcycled projects like a snazzy wine bag, a pocket-packed wall organizer, a zippered denim wallet, or even a super-handy utility apron (perfect for sewing notions!). Have your own idea? Even betterâI'll help you design and draft your own custom project. You'll have time to complete up to TWO projects in class, and you'll head home with instructions for all of them. Creative, practical, and seriously funâthis is upcycling at its best!
$70Make your own stylish, easy-to-wear bottoms! đ⨠Choose between wraparound palazzo pants or elastic waist pants/shorts and learn how to sew pieces you'll come back to again and again. This quick, beginner-friendly project is easy to size, simple to construct, and so fun to wear. The best part? Fabric choice changes everythingâgo casual, elegant, or anywhere in between and create a look that's completely your own. Materials required (we'll share all the details before class). Get ready to sew something you'll love living in.
$70Classes are designed for mature students.
Sew Fun!!!!!
Barbara Wesselman is an AMAZING sewing instructor. I learned from her when I was in high school and it began my strong skill set that eventually landed me work in television & film. She blends patience and humor in a way that her students don't even realize how much they are learning. I wish I could start over again with her, I highly recommend her skills!!
In high school, I was lucky enough to end up in Mrs. Wesselman's costuming class. From her, I learned how to sew and iron, how clothes are actually put together, how fabric behaves, and how to take old garments and turn them into something completely new. I kept learning from her even after high school, and because of her, I learned how to make things with real confidence. Even now, I'm still sewing!
Years later, she reworked my wedding dress, beading and all, with incredible care and precision. She's not only a master maker, but a truly generous teacher. More than 25 years after I first met her, I still call her with my sewing questions.
If you think you're "bad at sewing," or that you'll never get the hang of it, I promise you: Barbara will show you otherwise.
Ms. Barbara Wesselman is truly a treasure. I am so thankful for the opportunity to have had her as my teacher at Northwest School of the Arts. She consistently goes above and beyond for her studentsâacademically, socially, and emotionallyâoften in the moments when they need it most.
Her tough love, dedication, and behind-the-scenes work left a lasting impact on me and so many others. She even gave me my first opportunity to travel to NYC, an experience I will always treasure. I learned so much from herâlessons I still use to this dayâand her influence reaches far beyond the classroom. Our school and community were stronger because of her presence.
Mrs. Wesselman taught me how to sew from the ground up. When I first met her, I didn't even know how a sewing machine worked, but through her classes I quickly learned how to create everything from bags to clothing.
She brings years of experience across multiple industries and has a deep understanding of sewing from mass-market production to ready-to-wear. I also gained valuable knowledge about textiles, costume design, and the history of sewing through her instruction.
Because of Mrs. Wesselman's teaching, I am confident in my sewing skills today and even had the opportunity to work professionally as a tailor performing alterations on firefighting bunker gear for a government subcontractor. I am truly grateful for everything she taught me.
If you want to learn not just the mechanics but also the creativity and joy behind sewing, Sew Coastal is where you should start and Barbara Wesselman is the perfect teacher to guide you. I can't recommend her enough!
She taught me everything I know about textiles and the art of sewing while making an incredible and lasting impact on my life. She patiently guided me through countless costume projects and taught me to master the sewing machine with confidence.
The lessons I learned were more than sewing, but genuinely a patient and crafty approach to life.
I am delighted to recommend Barbara Wesselman as an exceptional sewing teacher. Barbara brings not only technical skill and knowledge to her instruction, but also warmth, patience, and an encouraging spirit that makes students feel immediately at ease.
Her teaching style is clear, organized, and approachable. She breaks down complex techniques into manageable steps, ensuring that beginners feel confident while also challenging more advanced students to grow. Barbara has a natural ability to meet each student where they are, offering guidance that is both constructive and uplifting.
What truly sets Barbara apart is her kindness and enthusiasm. She creates a welcoming, supportive learning environment where creativity can flourish. Students leave her classes not only with improved sewing skills but also with a sense of accomplishment and pride in their work.
Barbara Wesselman is a talented, dedicated, and truly admirable sewing teacher, and I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone seeking to learn or refine their sewing skills.
Barbara Wesselman is the kind of teacher and person you don't forget! She brings so much energy, creativity, and heart into everything she does. She's incredibly talented and her sewing has always inspired me. She has a way of making people feel comfortable and confident.
To be completely honest, I may have not even graduated high school without her. Barbara continued to believe in me after high school and chose to recruit me with an amazing job at Queens College during the summer, teaching young girls to sew.
It's been a while since my last sewing project⌠might sign up for her class!
Ready to start your sewing journey? Fill out the form below or reach out directly. We'd love to hear from you!