History

Tobias Binder, founder of Downtown Sewing, has been working in the sewing industry for over 5 years. 

2019: While a student at the University of Guelph, Tobias Began sewing with upcycled garments under the name "Virgo Apparel". He also worked for a local dry cleaners (King Cleaners) sewing alterations and repairs. Around this time, Tobias started tinkering with vintage sewing machines. 

2020-2021: Started repairing machines for mask sewing volunteers during lockdown. Also started sewing rework designs for Vintage Instincts, a vintage clothing store in Guelph, ON. 

September 2021: Attended the "Fix Sewing Machine Institute" in Temple, TX to improve sewing machine repair skills. Continued repairing customers machines from home.

2023-2024: Educator for Janome Canada Ltd. 

2024-2025: Ontario sales rep for Janome Canada Ltd.

April 2025: Downtown Sewing is founded.

Notable mention: Tobias was an original member (drummer) of the musical group SHEBAD, before passing the torch in 2024 to focus on his career.