Conversations: 8 Questions with Bettina D’Ascoli, Hastings Sewing Studio
I discovered Hastings Sewing Studio when I decided—after nearly twenty years—to take up sewing again. As a new-ish mother of two young kids grappling with the identity loss that so often comes with the territory, I knew I needed to get back to doing something creative. My hands missed making things. In looking for an outlet, I found so much more.
This light-filled corner studio in Hastings-on-Hudson turned out to be a haven: stocked with beautiful fabrics, every sewing tool I could imagine (plus plenty I didn’t know existed), grounded by a warm, approachable vibe. But the real draw is Bettina D’Ascoli—founder, designer, teacher, and creative force behind it all. She’s endlessly resourceful, has impeccable taste, a gift for demystifying complex techniques, and that rare ability to meet you exactly where you are.
She also plays the best music—from Italian disco to Japanese rock—and as we cut, sew, and serge, the conversation drifts easily from womanhood and parenting to film, travel, and current events. I always leave feeling lighter, creatively recharged, and reconnected to a version of myself that existed long before motherhood.
When I learned she also offered kids’ classes, I signed my eldest up without hesitation. She connected with Bettina instantly. Watching her take pride in what she makes, stay focused, and grow more confident with each project has been a joy. Clearly, I’m not the only one who feel this way, as Bettina’s classes fill up fast. She’s built something truly special, and I’m so excited to share more about her and her work here.
Can you share a bit about your own journey with sewing, and where this interest led you?
I was born into a family of home sewers. Sewing rooms were as normal to me as kitchens—every home I spent time in had a dedicated sewing space filled with tools, notions, and fabrics. I was always fascinated by how everything was organized and drawn to the beautiful variety of tools and materials.
Although no one in my family formally taught me how to sew, their passion was always present. So when I started learning at school, they were thrilled and fully supported me, passing down tools, materials, and a love for the craft that made it feel both exciting and completely natural.
That foundation sparked a lifelong passion. Sewing has become more than just a skill—it’s a creative outlet, a way to connect, and something I now love sharing with others.
2. What inspired you to start your sewing studio, and what did those early days look like?
I make all of my own clothes and find that practice deeply empowering. I knew I couldn’t be the only one who felt this way—who was obsessed with making and wanted to learn, connect, and create. I would have loved access to a studio like mine when I was starting out, so I decided to build the kind of space I wished I had.
The early days were challenging. I had no business experience and was figuring everything out as I went. I knew how to sew, and I had a sense of how I wanted to teach, but translating that into a business was a steep learning curve. Still, the excitement of building something meaningful and sharing what I love kept me going.
3. What made you decide to start offering classes for kids?
I taught both of my kids how to sew—they were behind a machine by the time they were four. They were always around me while I worked in my home studio and naturally became curious. They started making toys and gifts for friends, teachers, and family, and it was rewarding to see how confident and proud it made them.
When I opened the Studio, my daughter was just starting third grade. I had friends in the community who encouraged me to offer classes for kids, though in my mind, the Studio was initially meant for adults—with maybe a small side of kids programming. But the demand quickly grew, and I found myself adding more and more kids’ classes.
What surprised me most was how much I came to love teaching them. Their creativity, enthusiasm, and fearlessness are inspiring. I genuinely enjoy working with kids, and now their presence is a big part of what makes the Studio feel alive and joyful.
4. You’ve gotten to observe firsthand how kids respond to sewing. What do you think it teaches them?
Sewing teaches kids how to work through challenges and build real confidence. There’s something incredibly powerful about making something with your own hands—especially something as unexpected as clothing. Kids get dressed every day without thinking about how their clothes are made, so when they actually create a piece themselves, there’s this amazing sense of discovery and pride.
Sewing is the right kind of hard. I hear it all the time. “This is hard!” And that’s where the growth happens. We don’t step in to fix it for them—we guide them through it, and in doing so, we help them face their fear of failure. Every time they complete a difficult step, it fills their confidence bucket a little more. And that confidence carries over into other areas of their life.
When a student finishes a project, holds it up, and says, “I made this,” that moment is pure magic. It’s empowering, joyful, and unforgettable.
5. What’s been the best part of teaching kids how to sew?
Their proud faces. It never gets old.
6. Do you have any favorite projects or moments from one of your kids’ classes or camps—something that really wowed or stuck with you?
I absolutely love it when kids challenge me—when they imagine a project that, in my head, seems too complex or like something they might not be ready for . . . and then they totally prove me wrong. It’s humbling and exciting every time.
They also constantly surprise me with their color choices and design instincts—so bold, unexpected, and creative. Those moments when they push boundaries and take ownership of their ideas are the ones that really stay with me. It reminds me that kids are capable of so much when they’re trusted and supported.
7. What advice would you give to parents who want to nurture creativity in their kids?
Give them real tools. Kids can tell when something is just for play versus something that shows trust and responsibility. Using real tools makes the experience feel meaningful—and it shows them that you believe in their ability to do real work.
Also, help them through the fear of failure. So many kids are hesitant to try because they’re afraid it won’t be perfect. But what they don’t realize is that their “wonky” creation might become the thing they’re most proud of. That feeling of accomplishment comes from doing something hard, not something flawless.
Sit with them. Listen to their ideas—even the ones that seem unrealistic. Let them explain their plans, and you might be surprised by what they come up with. I know I’m often proven wrong in the best way.
And finally, by nurturing their creativity, you’re also nurturing your own. Creativity is contagious, and when it becomes part of a family’s rhythm, everyone benefits.
8. Lastly, what’s on the horizon at the studio over the next few months?
We’re gearing up to host our 7th summer sewing camp! Kids come from all over—New York City, Westchester, and beyond. Many arrive with little or no sewing experience, and by the end of camp, they leave proud and accomplished, having completed several projects.
It’s such a rewarding experience to see their confidence grow and their creativity flourish over just a few weeks. We’re excited to welcome new faces and returning students alike for another fun and inspiring summer.