July Fashion Camp for Tweens and Teens
5-day summer fashion camp for ages 10-14 featuring sewing, design, and runway show at Spectrum Gallery in Connecticut.
Spectrum Art Gallery announces its July Fashion Camp, running July 20-24, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., designed for young designers ages 10-14. This immersive week-long program combines practical sewing skills with fashion design, culminating in a professional photo shoot and fashion show.
Participants work with professional seamstresses who teach fundamental sewing techniques including reading patterns, pinning, cutting, and sewing. The camp features two main projects: first, participants sketch, design, and sew a re-fashion of a pair of jeans into a unique skirt; second, they create a complete garment from a commercial pattern and add accessories to bring their vision to life.
Professional hair and makeup stylists prepare participants for a photo shoot, and the week concludes with a fashion show where campers model their creations for friends and family. No prior sewing experience is required—instructors guide all skill levels from beginners to aspiring designers.
For those needing extra preparation, Spectrum Gallery offers a Pre-Camp Workshop titled "Make Friends with Your Sewing Machine" on Friday, July 10, 2026 (3:00-5:00 p.m.) or Saturday, July 11, 2026 (10:00 a.m.-12:00 noon). Participants must supply their own sewing machines for both the camp and pre-camp workshops.
As one former camper noted: "July Fashion Camp guided me from concept to the creation of my own garments. It was thrilling to see my ideas take shape—all in just one week!"
A sewing material list is provided upon registration. Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged.