Sew Ojai

Private Lessons at My Studio

Greetings, I’m Diane Steele, and my sewing journey began at the tender age of five under my mother’s guidance. What started as a childhood fascination evolved into a lifelong passion. Over the course of 50 years, I honed my craft by studying under a Swiss-German fashion designer and pattern-maker.

I hold a strong belief in the transformative power of sewing, not just as a creative outlet but as a sustainable practice. In a world dominated by fast fashion and its detrimental impact on the environment, I advocate for the timeless art of mending and altering clothes. Together, we can contribute to positive change, one stitch at a time.

Embark on this fulfilling journey with me as we unravel the art of sewing together. Join the movement to unlock your potential – not only mastering technical skills but also discovering and expressing your unique creative voice through sewing projects.

Sew_Ojai

Diane Steele

805.646.6266

Sew Ojai Scholarship Program

Scholarship application

Sew Ojai and Botanical Bundle Dye Workshop Sat. May 31, 10am-4pm
$222- all materials included – click on email: DS@DianeSteele.com to register.

Please join us for a creative day in a beautiful outdoor setting where sewing and nature come together! In the morning, on a covered patio, you’ll learn how to sew your own linen drawstring pouch. Sewing machine and sewing supplies will all be provided for you. This is a beginner friendly project- no experience on a sewing machine is necessary. Guided by Diane, you’ll learn basic sewing machine techniques and how to make a lovely, linen drawstring pouch to take home.
After a short break, you’ll dive into the magical world of botanical bundle dyeing. Bundle dyeing is a process where flowers and plants are sprinkled onto fabric, bundled up and then steamed to allow the colors of nature come through. Guided by Cheryl, in her garden, you will learn how your linen pouch has been pre-mordanted (ready for dyeing) and then choose locally grown fresh and dried flowers and plants to design and bundle dye your linen pouch. Watch your handmade pouch transform into a unique piece, colored by the beauty of nature. This is a slow-making, creative play day that will take place outdoors. We are both very excited to share our love of sewing and natural dyeing with you!

Space is limited to 6 people –

What to bring:
Your own lunch/ snacks
Water bottle
Hat, sunglasses – though, there will be plenty of shade

Diane Steele brings over 50 years of sewing experience. Her passion is teaching sewing in her Ojai home studio.

Cheryl Cooper spends her days in her Ojai garden, her life rooted in slowness, connecting with nature and sharing her love of natural dyeing with others.

A Peek in the Studio

POLICIES

Thank you for enrolling in Sew Ojai classes. I will make every effort to create a fun and positive learning experience for you. It is my goal to have you derive a lifetime of pleasure in what you create from your sewing knowledge. 

  • Class Fees  www.dianesteele.com.
  • Cancellations Due to one-on-one, cancellation is problematic. There are no cancellations nor refunds two days previous to the beginning of class unless your slot can be filled by another student.
  • Arrive on Time Other students may have classes scheduled in a time slot following your class. Please arrive on time as a courtesy to your instructor and other students. 
  • Make Up Lessons There are no make up classes due to absences. If you know in advance 2 weeks prior to the beginning of class that you will not be attending a particular class date, your registration fee will be pro-rated. Should a family emergency or illness occur please call 805.646.6266 before the class to notify the instructor.
  • If a class is canceled due to low enrollment, registered students will receive a full refund or credit for another class, whichever is preferred. 

  • Parking  On Blanche Street. Double park behind my car. Look for #14 on the storage locker.

 * Expiration Date.  Classes and lessons expire 3 months from date signed below.