Owner Megan Avery , who has been a Hoboken resident for nearly two decades , moved toHoboken in 1998 right after college .“ Our sewing studio space was opened in the Monroe Center in 2003 because it was close to where Ilived ,” she says .

MAvery Designs offers anarray of classes for people to channel their creative side and also hosts parties and private functions where attendees are allowed tobring their own food and beverages .

Avery finds satisfaction in helping students experience the fulfillment of creating something with their own two hands .“ I absolutely love teaching people of all ages and skill levels to make something handmade for themselves ,” she says .

The studio offers courses for people in every stage of expertise .“ Anyone can learn how to sew . You don ’ t need any prior skills or knowledge ,” Avery says . “ All of our projects can be simplified and made more advanced depending on what you ’ d like tolearn .”

Sewing Machine Basics , which shows students how tothread and use asewing machine , isthe most popular class at the studio . “ Hemming is askill that we teach alot ,” Avery says . “ Why not learn how to do it yourself instead of paying atailor to do it ?”

The eight-week Beginner Sewing Boot Camp is another favorite . The class

allows participants to make various projects , including a wallet , clutch , messenger bag , pajama bottoms , apron , skirt or a tie . Children enjoy courses on making stuffed animals and doll clothing , which are geared towards first-graders and older .

MAvery Designs gives instruction beyond sewing classes . Other studio activities include introductory weaving workshops and walking tours ofNew York ’ sgarment district to assist people in purchasing fabric .

The studio intends to provide a modernized approach to the practical skills people have used for ages .“ It ’ snot the home economics you grew upwith

HANDMADE TREASURES Ellen Brown , a sewing instructor at M Avery Designs , teaches a kids sewing class for first through third graders . ( Inset ) A cosmetic bag is one of the many products you can learn to make in one of the workshops available at the sewing studio .

where everything has to be sewn perfectly ,” Avery says . “ The best projects that have come out of our studio have their beautiful flaws and gorgeous oopses . That ’ s what makes them unique .”

Some students cite calming benefits from coming to M Avery Designs .“ I can ’ t tell you how many people liken our classes with aday at the spa . They love the environment of the studio and being able to do something for themselves ,” Avery says . “ Being creative is using a different part of the brain than what most adults use at work and kids use at school .”

For those wondering if sewing is for them , Avery suggests simply giving it a chance .“ Just try it ,” she says . “ You ’ ll be totally hooked .” ◆

MAKEUP BAG : COURTESY OF MEGAN AVERY

24 MAY 2016 ( 201 ) GOLD COAST