Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need any prior experience in sewing attend?
Yes, You must know how to sew and successfully operate a sewing machine.
Do I need any prior lingerie sewing experience to attend?
No, but you should practice sewing ¼” seam allowances on curves to best prepare yourself.
What materials do I need?
All supplies will be included with the retreat, including thread. Make sure you bring plenty of bobbins for your sewing machine. You may be sent the materials to cut ahead of time, so make sure you bring those all prepped and ready to go.
Do I need to bring my own sewing machine?
We encourage everyone to bring their own sewing machine to the retreat in Florida, but understand if you are unable to. Please notify us as soon as you register if you require a sewing machine to be provided for you. If you are a beginner and have only ever sewn on your own machine, you must bring your machine. Sewing on a machine that is new to you will create a learning curve and you may struggle to keep up if you are troubleshooting the borrowed machine. Sewing machines for the Scotland retreat are being provided by our sponsor PFAFF UK.
I have a special diet and cannot eat certain foods, can you accommodate my diet?
We will be able to accommodate most dietary restrictions, but if you have a food allergy that can cause anaphylaxis, we cannot guarantee that there will not be cross contamination at the restaurants we are getting catering from and we highly recommend preparing your own lunches. We will be working with a private chef for the Scotland retreat, so we can accommodate all restrictions.
If I have a conflict in schedule, get sick and am no longer able to make it, can I get a refund?
Our new registration platform allows you to purchase insurance to cover your registration if you are sick and are unable to attend, please review all restrictions when registering. If your reason is not covered by the insurance, unfortunately refunds are not available. You can transfer your registration to someone else and find another person to take your place.
I want to book my flight and hotel as soon as possible. When is the earliest I can start booking it?
You may book your travel arrangements as soon as you register, but we recommend purchasing insurance for both airfare and hotels reservations.
I will be traveling on my own, can I be paired up with a roommate to help cut some expenses?
We have created a Facebook group dedicated to the retreat. You can use this group to partner up for rooms, Airbnb and ride shares.
Can I have the location information?
We are happy to announce that the Spring 2025 Retreat will be held at Porcelynne’s location at 5601 Haines Road North in St. Petersburg, Florida. The Scotland Retreat is being held in Oban at the Achnacloich Castle.
I’m a very difficult person to fit patterns, how can I ensure that I will have well fitted garments upon completion?
We will be providing guidance prior to the retreat on taking measurements and will even send you a fabric muslin kit to mock up the garments prior to the retreat for complicated patterns. You can work virtually with the designers to adjust the pattern and get a proper fit prior to the retreat. Then all you have to do is have your pattern cut and ready to sew when you arrive.
Can I sign up for a payment plan?
Yes! Our registration platform only requires a deposit to reserve your space at one of our retreats. You can create and arrange for any payment plan you require on your own schedule. The Spring Retreat requires a $500 deposit and the Fall Retreat requires a $1000 deposit. Pay your balance down when you can, but know that your total must be paid in full prior to the retreat. We recommend making monthly payments towards your balance to ensure you don’t overextend yourself.How can I pay down my balance?
You can go to https://sewingretreats.account.webconnex.com and pay down your balance.