Good to Know

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Everything you need to know about private sewing and quilting lessons at Heyday.

Getting Started

About the Lessons

Do I need sewing or quilting experience?

No. You can begin without any previous experience. Hilary will adapt the lesson to your pace and give you time to repeat or practice each step.

Are the lessons private?

Yes. Every appointment is private, so the instruction can focus on your project, questions and preferred pace.

How long is each appointment?

Each appointment is two hours. Projects that require more time are divided into a planned series of two-hour appointments.

Which lesson should I choose?

Choose Learn to Sew or Learn to Quilt for a structured introduction. Pick a Project when you want the outcome and plan chosen for you. Bring an Idea when you already know what you want to make.

Bringing Your Own Idea

Project Planning Calls

What happens during a Project Planning Call?

During this 30-minute virtual call, you and Hilary will review what you want to make, discuss your experience and deadline, identify suitable fabric and supplies, and estimate how many private lessons the project may require.

Is the planning call a sewing or quilting lesson?

No. The planning call is a short virtual conversation for understanding and preparing your project. It does not include hands-on instruction, fitting, pattern alterations or custom pattern development. Those services take place during a private lesson.

Is the $25 planning fee applied to my lesson?

Yes. Book your first two-hour private lesson within 14 days of the call and the $25 planning fee will be applied to it.

Should I buy fabric before the planning call?

Usually not. If you are uncertain about fabric type, yardage or supplies, wait until after the call. Hilary will help you understand what to look for before you purchase anything.

Making Something

Projects and Materials

Are materials included?

Materials are included for selected introductory projects. Longer projects include a pattern and supply guide, but you will usually purchase the main project fabric separately.

The individual project page will explain exactly what is included and what you need to bring.

Can I bring my own pattern?

Yes. Choose Bring an Idea if you have a sewing or quilting pattern you want help planning and making. Begin with a 30-minute Project Planning Call so Hilary can review the idea, recommend supplies and estimate how many lessons you may need.

What if my project takes longer?

Guided projects include the planned appointment count shown on the project page. If your pace or project changes require more time, additional two-hour appointments are $175.

What happens after I finish a quilt top?

Hilary will help you decide how to quilt and bind the finished top based on your project, budget and how hands-on you want to be.

Additional appointments can be booked if you would like help with the finishing steps.

Your Visit

The Heyday Studio

Where do lessons take place?

Lessons take place in Hilary’s home sewing studio in San Diego. The exact address and arrival information will be provided with your booking confirmation.

Do I need to bring a sewing machine?

No. You will use Heyday’s sewing machine and studio tools during your appointment.

Is parking available?

Yes. Parking is easy and arrival instructions will be included with your appointment details.

Is there a dog in the studio?

Yes. Summer, Hilary’s dog, may be present in the home. Please share any allergies or concerns before booking.

Planning Your Visit

Booking and Scheduling

When are appointments available?

Appointments are generally available on weekday evenings and during the day on weekends. Current availability is shown when you book.

How do project packages work?

Purchase the project package first and pay the full project price at checkout. You’ll receive a package code that you can use to around your availability and project plan.

Can I reschedule my appointment?

Yes. Please provide at least one week’s notice when you need to reschedule an appointment.

Can I ask a question before booking?

Absolutely. Send Hilary a note with what you want to make and any general questions you have. If you want help assessing a custom project, selecting fabric or estimating the lessons needed, book a 30-minute Project Planning Call.