Sewing Studio Returns to Monroe Center

M. Avery Designs, the sewing studio run by designer Megan Avery, has relocated from its recent long-term home on the corner of Seventh and Willow Streets to the third floor of the Monroe Center. The move marks a return to Avery's Monroe Center roots. She occupied space in the west side arts building from 2003 until taking the Willow Avenue storefront in 2006.

Avery had used the Willow Avenue location as space for her core business, teaching people how to sew, and to also expand into selling retail products like sewing machines and fabric. She said the new studio has a better layout for teaching classes and is more convenient for her students who need parking. Avery also said she was enticed to move back after new ownership bought the Monroe Center last year and began renovating the decaying former industrial building.

“Once the new owners took over I felt confident I could have the business here,” she said.

Avery started her fashion career as a designer of hand made purses. She is the author of Bag Bazaar: 25 Stylish Bags to Make in an Afternoon, and her work has appeared in InStyle and Modern Bride magazines and also the Today Show. Avery said she started offering sewing classes after her customers showed an interest.

“I realized how many people wanted to learn how to sew,” Avery said.

She teaches all types of sewing to both adults and children of different skill levels, from beginners to intermediate and advanced students.

Kathy Martin, one of Avery's current students, said she first took a quilting class and has since gotten more lessons.

“I just pick up whatever classes that interest me,” Martin said. “I'm accomplishing something but also meeting new people.”

The classes at M. Avery Designs run from $25 for single classes to $300 for class packages. The studio also offers custom made garments and alterations, and continues to sell sewing equipment and fabric. Avery said she is excited to hold her fifth annual sewing and fashion design camp for children this summer.

Coming soon: a home décor store and a clothing boutique open in midtown.

The Business Beat covers businesses opening, closing, renovating, relocating and celebrating anniversaries in the Mile Square. Have a Hoboken related business tip? Send an email to alanskontra@hotmail.com.