Sewing Lessons & Tote Bags with De Steek in Amsterdam
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
No physical fitness required; suitable for seated activity
Overview
Learn to sew your own stylish tote bag with expert guidance from designer Andrea van der Kuil at De Steek’s Sewing Café. This 3-hour beginner-friendly lesson in Amsterdam’s De Pijp district offers a unique hands-on dive into sustainable fashion craftsmanship.
Sewing Lesson: Tote Bag (De Pijp)
From 13 yrs old • 3 h • Always wanted to start sewing, but don’t know how to start?
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About This Adventure
Dive into the world of sewing with a 3-hour lesson at our Sewing Café! Guided by fashion designer Andrea van der Kuil, you'll learn essential skills while creating your own stylish tote bag from organic materials. Choose your fabric colors and enjoy a supportive atmosphere with fellow beginners.
Duration: 3 h
Always wanted to start sewing, but don’t know how to start? Then this is a great deal for you! With this lesson it is possible to follow a 3 hours session in our Sewing Café and you also get a kit with all the materials to develop a simple, but nice, tote bag (organic cotton fabric & hemp straps). You can choose between different colors of organic cotton canvas fabric and hemp straps in your class. This package is a nice way to learn the basics on the sewing machine, while making your first piece.
This lesson takes place in our Sewing Cafe. You will share the lesson normally with other beginners that are also working on a tote bag or other (beginner) project(s). The lesson is guided by fashion designer Andrea van der Kuil.
What do you learn in this lesson? • Introduction in threading the machine • Introduction in cutting fabric • How to create a basic seam with straight stitch • How to finish you seam with a zig-zag-stitch • How to finish a basic hem • How to make squared corners
Highlights
• Learn the basics on the sewing machine • Learn the basics of fabric (cutting) & working with a sewing pattern • Go home with 1 finished product • Choose the lesson date/time flexibly • Professional guidance of a fashion designer from our community provided
Includes
• 3 hour lesson in our Sewing Cafe on the day/time of your wishes. • Professional guidance by fashion designer Andrea. • Use of tools and machine during class. • Water & cookies. • Organic materials (fabric and straps) included for a tote bag • Instruction booklet of the tote bag
Important to Know
Language: Dutch & English
It is possible to join this course as a complete beginner or if you have a little bit experience and want to freshen up your skills.
This class takes place in our studio in Amsterdam De Pijp: Eerste Jacob van Campenstraat 40 in Amsterdam.
Please note that for the remainder of February classes will be in our East location at Christiaan de Wetstraat 114 in Amsterdam.
Classes in our new location will only take place from 01 March.
Adventure Tips
Book Your Spot in Advance
Classes fill quickly due to limited space and guided instruction—reserve early to secure your preferred date and time.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
Opt for clothes that allow easy movement since you’ll be sitting and working with your hands for several hours.
Arrive with an Open Mind
Even if you’re new to sewing, the welcoming atmosphere and step-by-step guidance make this experience accessible and fun.
Use Public Transport or Bike
De Pijp is best reached by tram, metro, or bicycle due to limited parking options near Eerste Jacob van Campenstraat.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Urban birds such as common blackbirds and great tits frequent the area
- Squirrels scurry in De Pijp’s parks and tree-lined streets
History
De Pijp developed in the late 19th century as a working-class neighborhood and now thrives as a cultural hotspot blending tradition with contemporary creativity.
Conservation
De Steek emphasizes sustainable materials, using organic fabrics and promoting slow fashion practices that lessen environmental impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Amsterdam
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable clothes
Allows for ease of movement and comfort during seated sewing instruction.
Notebook and pen
Useful for jotting down tips or sewing notes during the lesson.
Glasses or magnifier
Helpful for seeing small stitches and machine details clearly.
Reusable water bottle
Staying hydrated keeps focus sharp during the 3-hour session.