What Sets Us Apart?
At our shop, the art of sewing, crochet, and embroidery takes on a special dimension. With over 30 years of experience, we welcome everyone, including those with mild intellectual disabilities or manual dexterity challenges. Our specialized programs are designed to ensure that no one misses out on the joy of learning what they love. Furthermore, in our boutique, each piece is carefully crafted by hand, making us a unique place where passion and craftsmanship meet.
How Ateliers l'Apprenti Was Born

When Passion Becomes Reality
Hakima Soualah has always been driven by a true passion for sewing since a young age. Indeed, for her, sewing is not just a simple skill, but also encompasses conviviality and warm encounters.
Thus, under the name Ateliers l’Apprenti, Hakima Soualah, both founder and director, realizes her deep desire to share this love for sewing, even far from her origins.
The adventure began in 2019 with the primary mission of introducing her own children to this craft. She quickly opened her doors to her neighbors’ children and launched her very first class, bringing together six enthusiastic students. Moreover, the overwhelming success of this first experience immediately sparked the interest of many other families, eager to participate in these valuable sewing lessons.
Faced with growing demand, Hakima made a bold decision: to start her own business, called “Ateliers l’Apprenti.” Her entrepreneurial journey was fraught with challenges. She had to juggle paperwork and immerse herself in the complexities of the business world, often working late into the night to learn new skills. However, every obstacle was worth it to bring her dream to life.
Today, Ateliers l’Apprenti thrives, offering much more than sewing classes.. In reality, they are the reflection of a tradition dear to her heart, creating a space for socialization, creativity and friendship for children and families. Thus, Hakima Soualah was able to bring a small fragment of Algeria to Quebec, illuminating the lives of those who had the opportunity to join his journey into the world of craftsmanship.
When Passion Becomes Reality
Driven by her passion for sewing since childhood, Hakima Soualah founded “Ateliers l’Apprenti” in 2019. Initially, she taught her children and those of her neighbors, but rapid success prompted her to start her own business, despite the entrepreneurial challenges.
Today, “Ateliers l’Apprenti” thrives by offering much more than sewing classes. The business has become a space for socializing, creativity, and friendship for families in Greater Montreal. In this way, Hakima has brought a piece of Algeria to the table, illuminating the lives of those who have joined her journey through craftsmanship. Furthermore, in addition to sewing classes, the business offers various activities that reflect the tradition dear to her heart, creating an enriching experience for all participants.
Mission
The specific objectives we have set for ourselves
1- Encourage creativity.
2- Support the development of fine motor skills.
3- Playful learning.
4- Develop the ability to act autonomously.
5- Create memories.
6- Create a community.
7- Promote fair trade.
8- Promote a taste for craftsmanship.

Who Can Take Our Courses?
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Sewing enthusiasts:
- Sewing enthusiasts, whether beginners or experienced, who want to develop their sewing skills.
- People who enjoy creating their own clothing, accessories or decorative items.
- Individuals interested in creating costumes, custom clothing or unique pieces.
- Needlework enthusiasts:
- Crochet enthusiasts who want to learn new stitches and patterns.
- People who find satisfaction in working with needles and creating objects from yarns of all kinds.
- Embroiderers want to perfect their skills in the art of embroidery, whether for decorative or artistic projects.
- People looking for creative and relaxing activities:
- Individuals looking for a calming and meditative leisure activity.
- Those who want to escape from everyday stress and relax by doing something creative.
- People interested in manual activities to stimulate their creativity.
- DIY enthusiasts (Do It Yourself):
- People who like the idea of creating their own handmade items.
- DIY enthusiasts who want to learn new skills and crafts.
- Future entrepreneurs or artisans:
- Individuals who are considering starting their own sewing, crochet, embroidery or craft business.
- Those looking to turn their creative skills into a source of income.
- Entrepreneurs looking to develop a craft brand or sell their creations on online platforms.