Workspace, classes, and community for Chicago sewists.

Our mission is to provide professional studio space for anyone to work: from hobbyists and students to professional designers, seamstresses and tailors. By removing some of the high cost barriers to entry, we are striving to revitalize the sewing industry in Chicago while educating those with an interest in sewing and fashion.

Your new go-to professional-level,
open sewing studio in Chicago.

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Sewing & Fashion Classes and Workshops

Our studio offers many monthly classes taught by professionals in beginner and intermediate sewing, pattern-making and alterations, as well as workshops in a variety of disciplines. We also offer open studio access to students for the month of their class from 10am to 6pm with the exception of other class times.

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Monthly Studio Memberships

Our monthly membership program is designed to support everyone from to emerging designers and established fashion professionals. Members enjoy flexible access to the studio seven days a week, creating a welcoming environment to learn, create, collaborate, and grow at their own pace.


From industrial machines and cutting tables to fitting rooms and fabric storage, The Notch is a functional sewing studio dedicated to uplifting and educating a new generation of designers, tailors and sewists.


Think you want to give sewing a try, but don’t know if you’re ready to commit to a full-on class? Our “First Stitches” sessions are one-off 2-hour workshops designed to to help you gain confidence with the sewing machine and the first steps of sewing. Bring your machine or borrow one of ours and we'll guide you through the essentials, including identifying key parts, winding a bobbin, threading the machine, troubleshooting common issues, and sewing basic stitches.

A workspace with a large wooden table, black chairs, a red patterned rug, a pegboard with tools on the wall, and wooden shelves with storage baskets.

We also offer 3-hour workshops to learn the basics of all of our industrial equipment: industrial straight stitch machines, sergers, irons, walking foot and speciality feet and tools. Students who take this class are eligible to purchase day or week passes to utilize our open studio.

A workshop corner with a pegboard holding various tools and supplies, a wooden worktable, and two chairs with woven cane backrests.

Visit the Notch

Connect with Us

Not sure where to start? Curious about a membership? Wondering about which class to start with? Reach out with any questions, or if you're ready to dive right in, schedule a free tour today.