A Bright New Space for Les Fabriques

Welcome Dana (a.k.a. Cville Fashion) to the Charlottesville Woman blog. We are so thrilled to have her writing for us with awesome tips to help you develop your own personal style. You can read her posts here each month on the third Thursday. In between you should definitely take the time to explore Cville Fashion for ideas on local fashion finds, fun health tips, beauty advice and so much more.

Les Fabriques

Les Fabriques fabric store has moved to a bigger, brighter location, located at 1895 Seminole Trail in Charlottesville (previously Bassett Furniture). The new space presents new opportunities to anyone in the community who loves sewing or wants to learn.

With décor that exudes an “Anthropologie” ambience, the larger store seems to beckon you to explore, with a roomy sitting area to browse magazines and pattern books, an adorable display of children’s fabrics, an elegant bridal corner complete with a sample gown, and a massive classroom area set up with several tables and sewing machines. 

Speaking of classes, there are several being offered now through April. As owner Carla Quenneville puts it, “There’s something for everybody,” from Beginning Sewing for newbies, to making a hooded raincoat or satin-stitch applique skirt for the more experienced, to “Open Sewing” Saturdays for those who just need more space to work. Want to socialize? Check out “It’s a Tea Party,” and you’ll not only learn how to make tea cozies, but you’ll also partake in some tea with the class. Or, sign up for “Le Chic Sewing Club,” which meets once a month. Class schedule and more information is available on the website.

As someone who loves fashion and making my own clothes, I can tell you that taking a class at Les Fabriques really helped me come a long way in my sewing skills. Last November, I took a lingerie-making course at the store. It was my first sewing class, so I still had a lot to learn, but Esther (the instructor) was very patient, and I was able to catch on quickly. Although we made the lingerie from a pattern, I was able to incorporate my personal style by choosing my own fabrics. And at the end of the three-week course, I proudly took home my finished garment. Completing the course also gave me the confidence to make a dress on my own, and I plan to continue taking classes and making more clothes this year.

Take some time to visit Les Fabriques’ new location. The family run store, which Carla started with her mother in 1978, continues to offer not only beautiful fabrics, but valuable lessons for future designers.