Sewing & Fashion Arts

MaryAn Webb has been teaching continuing education for 8 years and has been with Langara since 2014.  She has a Bachelor of Education from UBC, a Fashion Design degree from Kwantlen University, and a certificate from Universite de le Mode in France.  MaryAn currently works in the fashion industry as a designer and stylist.  Recent projects include designing and creating custom outfits for artists attending Canada’s Juno Awards ceremony, creating wedding wear, styling television commercials for Apple, Toaster Strudels and Houzz, while also teaching adolescences and adults how to sew.  MaryAn is a lifelong learner who is always striving to do her best.  Her goal as a teacher is to help students work on their problem-solving skills in a comfortable learning environment that is without pressure or restrictions.

I am a Continuing Studies Instructor, specializing in Workplace Skills and Computer Technology, with a recent addition of Sewing from the Community Learning courses to my teaching portfolio. My passion lies in exploring the intersections of art and science.

Sewing has been a part of my life since before I started grade school, and by age 12, I was already designing my own garments. My university studies in costume design allowed me to develop an independent style, though fast fashion eventually took over my wardrobe due to time and financial constraints. 

I'm particularly drawn to the vibrant colours and rich textures of textiles and fibres, and I love the magic that comes from transforming simple materials into something extraordinary. I believe in the power of self-sufficiency as a tool for personal empowerment, allowing individuals to tackle bigger challenges.

Even something as small as a missing button can have a significant impact – a perfect outfit suddenly unavailable to give you that extra boost of confidence. By fixing a button or mending an unravelled seam, you take control of these small setbacks, stepping out into the day with a sense of accomplishment and readiness.