This isn't just a summer camp
It’s a fashion incubator for the next generation of designers (Ages 11-15). Over four immersive weeks, students will go behind the scenes of the industry, learning everything from sketching and textile science to sewing construction and business branding. We treat our students like professional designers, providing them with the tools, mentorship, and studio time to turn their creative visions into a runway-ready collection
The Designer's Toolkit
Unlike standard craft camps, every student at Raleigh Fashion Lab receives professional-grade tools to keep.
Your tuition covers:
The Professional Portfolio: A curated book of their sketches, fabric swatches, and professional photos of their work—perfect for magnet school or college applications.
The Hardware: A personal Sewing Kit (fabric shears, pins, rulers, tape measure) and a High-Quality Sketchbook.
The Uniform: A custom-branded "Raleigh Fashion Lab" apron to wear in the studio.
The Collection: By the end of camp, students will take home a complete 3-piece collection (Summer Dress, Upcycled Outfit, and Accessories) designed and constructed by them.
The Brand: A complete digital branding package (Logo, Color Palette, and Designer Bio) created by the student.
Take $350 off with coupon code: SEWSWEET350
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Week 1: The Brand & The Basics We start with safety and style. Students create their own logos, learn machine safety ("The Driver's License Test"), and construct their first accessory collection (Tote Bags & Scrunchies).
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Field Trip: NC Museum of Art (Texture Hunt).
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Guest Expert: Fashion Stylist & Sneaker Artist.
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Week 2: The Summer Dress Students dive into garment construction, learning to read commercial patterns and sew a custom summer dress. We focus on fit, finishing, and photography.
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Field Trip: NC State Wilson College of Textiles.
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Guest Expert: Fashion Designer & Photographer.
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Week 3: The Upcycled Collection Sustainability meets business. Students visit a thrift store to source materials, then learn to deconstruct and redesign them into a trendy 2-piece outfit.
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Field Trip: Thrift Store Sourcing Challenge.
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Guest Expert: Boutique Owner & Branding Expert.
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Week 4: The Runway Finale The focus shifts to "Avant-Garde" creativity and show production. Students create a wearable art piece and prepare for the Grand Gala.
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Field Trip: Raleigh Denim Workshop.
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The Main Event: Friday Fashion Show for friends & family (Catered Lunch included for designers).
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The 4-Week Journey
Is experience required?
No! We take students from "Zero to Hero." Whether your child has never touched a needle or has been sewing for years, our curriculum is designed to teach professional techniques from the ground up. Beginners will learn safety and basics, while advanced students will be challenged with complex finishing techniques.
The "Real World" Schedule (9am - 5pm) This is a Design Incubator. We run on a full-day schedule to mirror a real fashion studio. Mornings are dedicated to "Input" (Guest Speakers, Field Trips, and Concept Sketching), while afternoons are focused on "Output" (3+ hours of focused Sewing Lab time).
Safety First, we work with real industry tools: sewing machines, fabric shears, and irons. Safety is our #1 priority.
Day 1 includes a mandatory safety certification. We maintain a strict student-to-instructor ratio to ensure every designer is supported.
Age Policy This intensive camp is tailored for ages 11–15.
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Exceptions: We welcome focused 10-year-olds who can work independently.
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Senior Designers: Students aged 16–18 are welcome to join to build college portfolios, provided they demonstrate patience and leadership with younger campers.
What to Expect at Raleigh Fashion Lab
Camp Details
Tuition: $2,000 per student Includes all fabric, sewing machine rental, field trip transportation, and lunches.
🔥 Early Bird Special: $1,650 (Ends April 1st) Coupon Code: SEWSWEET350
Extended Care Options: Need flexibility? We offer supervised creative time before and after studio hours.
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Early Drop-Off (7:30 AM - 9:00 AM): $60/week
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Late Pick-Up (5:00 PM - 6:00 PM): $50/week
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Unlimited Pass (Both): $100/week
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Location: 2810 Wakefield Pines Drive
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Dates: 7/6/2026 – 7/31/2026
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Studio Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Monday – Friday)