A Special Lee Sewing and Craft Cafe - Washington, District of Columbia

Scott D.

Don't take this class. My wife signed up for this class and she was so excited to learn more about sewing. She is a non-confrontational, kind, and tenacious person. Unfortunately, the instructor bullied her and demeaned her rather that teaching her, and she left each class feeling upset and chose not to finish the class due to her extremely negative experience. She was so intimidated by this instructor that she was afraid to leave a review for fear of retribution. She didn't want me to leave a review either for the same reason, but I was so mad about how disrespected she felt in this class that I am compelled to warn others to not make the same mistake of flushing your money down the toilet by signing up for it.

Diane W.

I LLOOOVVEEDD the amazing class Ms. Antoinette has created to support beginner sewers. It was truly a fun and amazing experience. I just completed level one and successfully finished TWO projects. I immediately enrolled in the level two course!

She is very knowledgeable, organized, and wants the best experience for all her students. As a busy full time employed young women, I appreciate those attributes. If you want to learn to sew, this is the place to be. Be ready with your notepad, pen, and camera because there is so much information, tips and tricks packed into the six-week course. Treat it like the investment that it is (come prepared, on-time, and willingness to learn), and you will get a bang for your buck!

I am so excited about continuing this new hobby that I hope will turn into a business of my own. Gratitude Ms. Antoinette for all you have taught me thus far and opening your home to teach individuals like me. You are making a lifelong dream come true for me.

Lyn M.

Antoinette is a fantastic sewing instructor. I have learned how to read a pattern—which is extremely important—cut material, use a sewing machine and more. I highly recommend her sewing classes.

Linda A.

I had bought a sewing machine during the pandemic and had no idea how to use it. Antoinette told me to bring it with me to class. During the first few projects I learned how to use it ! I like Antoinette's approach that this is a creative journey and to celebrate the successes. The pillow we made in class was small and successful. I love the bag I made. I continue to improve my skills with Antoinette's no nonsense guidance. I like the small class and the ability to work at my own pace and ask questions as a need to. I will keep coming back!

D L.

Antoniette's studio is an absolute gem in Washington DC! As a novice in the world of sewing and crafting, I found Antoniette to be an incredible teacher. Her expertise is unparalleled, and her teaching style, though strict, is incredibly effective.

Antoniette's knowledge is vast, and she guides you through each step of the process with precision and patience. Her emphasis on trusting the process not only enhances your skills but also builds your confidence in your craft.

What I truly appreciate about her classes is the perfect balance between structure and enjoyment. Despite her strict approach, there's an undeniable element of fun woven into every session. It's evident that Antoniette is passionate about what she does, and that passion is contagious!

Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, I highly recommend A Special Lee Sewing and Craft Cafe. Antoniette Lee's dedication to her craft and her students is simply remarkable. You'll learn, grow, and undoubtedly have a blast in the process!

Romello G.

Taking my first quilting class at Antoniette's studio was a dream! Each class is approached with care and my sewing classmates were delightful to learn alongside and chat with.

She creates an environment where it is okay to make mistakes and gives you space to really thinking through and internalize what you are doing instead of just giving you the answers. Along the way she gives you plenty of tips and helps you learn the basics of a skill that she has spent her entire life mastering!

Within two week's I had already completed my first project and she provided me with the support and guidance I needed as I tackled the more advanced second project. She came highly recommended from a friend and I am telling all my friends to take sewing/quilting with her!

Hannah W. O.

Antoinette is a phenomenal teacher. I signed up for the 8-week beginner series and picked up basic sewing skills very quickly — I even went home with a finished pillow after my first class! I found the class structure really conducive to learning and retaining skills. After learning the basics the first two weeks, you work independently on a final project (with personalized instruction from Antoinette) and it helps build your confidence in using the sewing machine. The studio in Antoinette's home is also well-organized, clean and stocked with everything you would need to complete a project. Going to class is the highlight of my week and I look forward to signing up for more classes.

Annalise G.

I hate to write a bad review for a small business, but unfortunately it’s warranted here. I got my partner the beginner 1 sewing classes for her birthday. Sadly, it was not the fun experience I had hoped for. The teacher was very mean, actually making my partner and another student (who didn’t return to future classes) cry at one point. My partner also felt she could not ask questions for fear of the teacher being harsh with her (also why she didn’t want to write a review here).

Additionally, the website lists that the teacher will help you learn how to use your own machine if you bring it along with the instruction manual. My partner brought hers to the first class and the teacher refused to teach her on it. On a smaller note, the teacher does not let you use her restroom during two hour classes which I think is a bit absurd. Looking back I realize the reason there are explicitly no refunds is likely because students after the first class no longer wish to continue. For people just hoping to begin sewing in a comfortable environment, I would not recommend this place.