Mayfair Mansions Community Fashion Show
Sewing Class and Designer Workspace Info
Saturday, April 11th, 2026
”For the Community, By the Community”
Mayfair Mansions Community Center
3744 1/2 Hayes St NE
Washington DC 20019
Rules
- Sign-in/out required.
- Capacity limited; waitlist may be used.
- Safety first: closed-toe shoes, hair secured, no loose sleeves/jewelry at machines.
- Clean as you go: return tools, clear scraps, wipe tables.
- Media consent: classes may be photographed/filmed for program documentation—notify staff if you prefer not to be photographed.
- Respectful conduct at all times per MMFS/Center rules.
Access & accommodations
The Center is accessible. For accommodations, contact the Producer at least 72 hours before your class.
Sewing Classes
What it is
Hands-on, beginner-friendly classes that teach core sewing skills while supporting looks being built for the Mayfair Mansions Community Fashion Show.
Who can attend
Open to community members ages 14+ (under 18 with parent/guardian). No experience required.
When & where
Sessions run on the posted schedule at the Mayfair Community Center (3744 ½ Hayes St NE, Washington, DC 20019).
Dec. 2025- Feb. 2026: Mon/Tue 6:30–8:00 PM and Fri (some) 12:00–2:00 PM.
See the live calendar for exact dates and any changes: Production Calendar.
Cost
Free for Fashion Show participants. (Donations are welcomed.)
How to Join
- Complete the Sewing Class Sign-Up form.
- Check your email for a confirmation and class date(s).
- Purchase the Ankhsemble Sewing Guidebook
- Arrive 10 minutes early to sign in.
What to bring
- If you have them: fabric you’d like to learn on, basic notions (thread, needles, pins).
- We provide shared machines and basic tools when available. Personal machines are welcome—label everything.
What you’ll learn
Machine safety and set up, seams/hems, simple patterns and pattern drafting, basic alterations, pressing/finishing. Advanced topics as time allows.
Designer Workspace
What it is
Reserved work time and tables for approved Designers & Assistant Designers to pattern, cut, sew, and finish runway looks for MMFS.
Eligibility
Approved Designers/Assistants on the MMFS roster who have signed all agreements.
When & where
Classes & Workspaces operate typically Mon/Tue 6:30–8:00 PM and Fri 12:00–2:00 PM from Dec 2025 through Mar 2026. See exact dates and apply below.
Check-in & stationing
- Mandatory sign-in/out at arrival/departure.
- Tables and machines are assigned by staff based on availability and safety.
Materials & equipment
- Bring your own fabrics, patterns, and specialty notions.
- Shared: domestic machines, irons/boards, cutting mats, basic tools (as available).
- Label all personal items. The Center/Organizer is not responsible for lost or damaged property.
Storage
- Limited overnight storage may be assigned; nothing may block exits.
- Garments must be stored on labeled racks/covers. Unlabeled items may be removed.
House rules
- No open food on sewing surfaces; closed containers only.
- No aerosol adhesives/sprays inside; use approved areas only.
- No dyeing/bleaching onsite.
- Heat tools (irons/steamers) off when unattended.
Deadlines & Milestones (Designers)
- Fitting #1: Fri, Jan 23, 2026
- Fitting #2: Fri, Feb 20, 2026
- Mandatory Group Fitting: Fri, Feb 27, 2026
- Media Package (all participants): Fri, Mar 13, 2026
- FINAL DUE DATE (design lists, music/lighting notes, payments): Fri, Mar 20, 2026
- Alterations complete / runway-ready handoff: Tue, Mar 31, 2026
- Dress Rehearsal: Fri, Apr 10, 2026
- SHOW DAY: Sat, Apr 11, 2026
Expectations
- Maintain professional conduct; respect staff, peers, and facilities.
- Meet all due dates and respond to communications within 24 hours.
- Keep aisles clear; maintain a safe, tidy station.
- Report incidents or equipment issues immediately to staff.
- Follow all MMFS/Center rules and emergency procedures.
Questions / accommodations
Contact the Producer or Personal Assistant via the Contact link.
Interviews / Casting
- Mon, Nov 17, 2025 · 6:30–8:00 PM — Interviews/Casting (by appointment)
- Mon, Nov 24, 2025 · 6:30–8:00 PM — Interviews/Casting (by appointment)
Sewing Classes
- Tue, Dec 02, 2025 · 6:30–8:00 PM — Free Sewing Class (opening night)
- Mon, Dec 08, 2025 · 6:30–8:00 PM — Free Sewing Class
- Tue, Dec 09, 2025 · 6:30–8:00 PM — Free Sewing Class
- Mon, Dec 15, 2025 · 6:30–8:00 PM — Free Sewing Class
- Tue, Dec 16, 2025 · 6:30–8:00 PM — Free Sewing Class
- Mon, Jan 12, 2026 · 6:30–8:00 PM — Free Sewing Class
- Tue, Jan 13, 2026 · 6:30–8:00 PM — Free Sewing Class
- Mon, Jan 26, 2026 · 6:30–8:00 PM — Free Sewing Class
- Tue, Jan 27, 2026 · 6:30–8:00 PM — Free Sewing Class
- Mon, Feb 09, 2026 · 6:30–8:00 PM — Free Sewing Class & Designer Workspace
- Tue, Feb 10, 2026 · 6:30–8:00 PM — Free Sewing Class & Designer Workspace
Group Fitting
- Fri, Jan 23, 2026 · 12–2 PM OR 6–8 PM — Fittings #1
- Fri, Feb 20, 2026 · 12–2 PM — Fitting #2
- Fri, Feb 27, 2026 · 12:00–2:00 PM — Group Fitting (MANDATORY) OR
- Fri, Feb 27, 2026 · 6:30–8:00 PM — Group Fitting (MANDATORY)
Designer Workspace
- Mon, Feb 09, 2026 · 6:30–8:00 PM — Free Sewing Class & Designer Workspace
- Tue, Feb 10, 2026 · 6:30–8:00 PM — Free Sewing Class & Designer Workspace
- Tue, Feb 17, 2026 · 6:30–8:00 PM — Designer Workspace
- Mon, Feb 23, 2026 · 6:30–8:00 PM — Designer Workspace
- Tue, Feb 24, 2026 · 6:30–8:00 PM — Designer Workspace
- Fri, Mar 06, 2026 · 12:00–2:00 PM — Designer Workspace
- Mon, Mar 09, 2026 · 6:30–8:00 PM — Designer Workspace
- Tue, Mar 10, 2026 · 6:30–8:00 PM — Designer Workspace
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