Esme Cardigan · Virtual Workshop

Starts Tuesday, January 6 · 6-8pm ET · 3 weeks
$150 · Only $125 for Studio Members · [Learn more about membership →]

Studio Membership Perks

Studio members receive $25 off every workshop, free access to our Mini Makes series, early access to preorders and sales, plus a supportive online community to sew and share with.

Workshop Description

The Esme Cardigan from Named Clothing is a cozy, modern layer with clean lines and a beautifully simple silhouette. Whether you choose a soft jersey, a structured ponte, or textured knit, Esme is a satisfying, versatile make and a perfect next step if you’re looking to build confidence sewing with stretch fabrics. While designed for knits, the pattern works well with other fabric options like Cotton Jacquard or boiled wool, making it even more versatile and fun.

In this workshop, I sew the full garment from start to finish, teaching through detailed demonstrations while sharing my complete thought process. You’ll see how I assess fabric behavior, manage stretch, stabilize key areas, and troubleshoot in real time. The goal is not just to complete the cardigan, but to help you understand why each step matters so you can approach knit garments with clarity and ease.

Across three live Zoom sessions, we’ll work through the entire construction of the cardigan, focusing on clean finishes, neckline bands, hemming options, and the small decisions that create a polished, long-lasting result.

What You’ll Learn

• How to choose and handle knit fabrics for this project

• Simple modifications to the length

• Stabilizing seams and shoulders for longevity

• Constructing and attaching the neckline band

• Machine- and serger-based seam finishes for knits

• Hemming options (machine hem, twin needle, serger)

• Practical troubleshooting for wavy seams, stretching, and distortion

• How to make buttonholes with your machine

• Thoughtful decision-making throughout construction

What You’ll Get

• 6 hours of live instruction over 3 weeks

• Multi-camera demos (top-down, machine view, table view) for clear visibility

• Replay access to every session

• A dedicated online workshop space for posting progress, asking questions, and connecting with fellow students

• Lifetime access to all Esme Cardigan replays and resources

Please Note

We’ll cover general fit considerations for knits and how to make simple adjustments. However, personalized or advanced fitting is beyond the scope of this class.

With clear demos and a supportive structure, this workshop gives you the tools and confidence to sew knit garments with ease.

Pattern Requirement

You’ll need the Named Clothing Esme Cardigan pattern for this workshop.

• PDF patterns can be purchased directly from the designer - Named Clothing

• After purchase, you may upload your A0 file to the workroom for wide-format printing, or print the tiled version at home.

Please have your pattern and fabric on hand for the first class. We’ll start by reviewing measurements, sizing for knits, and understanding intended ease before any cutting begins. This groundwork helps you approach knit garments with confidence.

Member Benefit

Silver Online Studio Members receive $25 off virtual workshops. Log in to the Online Studio → Studio Commons to access your discount code.

Handmade Wardrobe Year

This workshop is included in the Handmade Wardrobe Year Program. If you’ve been looking for a guided, structured way to build your handmade wardrobe across 2026, HWY may be exactly the support you’ve been seeking.