Make your own raincoat—designed for life in Raincouver! In this hands-on studio course, students will learn the full process of constructing a custom raincoat using a pre-made commercial pattern. You’ll experiment with sew-free and specialty equipment available on campus while gaining confidence working with waterproof fabrics.
Guided by an experienced instructor, you’ll explore essential rainwear techniques such as seam sealing (by machine and by hand), waterproof finishing methods, and practical sewing “tricks” that help garments perform in wet weather. By the end of the course, you’ll understand how technical rainwear is made—while walking away with your own finished, personalized raincoat, ready for Vancouver’s rainy season.
Participants will choose their fabric, notions, and raincoat style in consultation with the instructor on the first day of class to ensure the project aligns with their skill level and goals.
Supplies for initial sampling and machine demonstrations will be provided. Participants are responsible for purchasing fabric, thread, and notions for their final raincoat. This is the perfect studio experience for anyone who wants to develop apparel construction skills while creating something practical, personal, and perfectly suited to the West Coast climate.
Who This Course is for
Beginner to intermediate sewists who want to build confidence with waterproof fabrics
Apparel and fashion students exploring technical garment construction
Makers and DIY enthusiasts who love practical, wearable projects
Anyone living in Vancouver or the West Coast who wants a functional raincoat they made themselves
Sewers preparing to explore technical apparel and performance garment techniques