ASDP membership provides practical tools and meaningful connections to support professional growth and business success. Members gain access to networking opportunities through local chapters and national events, along with client referrals through the ASDP national website.
Members also receive access to a comprehensive business resource library, including sample contracts, printable templates, and professional tools. Additional benefits include discounted rates for MSDP and MAS certifications, exclusive discounts through industry vendors, and access to expert business and financial guidance.
Through online discussions, members can engage with peers on business topics, industry news, and emerging issues—creating a supportive environment for learning, problem-solving, and collaboration.
Which Membership Level is Right For Me?
Formal
Expand your knowledge with continuing education and training. In addition to online information resources, you receive access to seminars, webinars, online training, conferences with in-depth workshops and chapter events-many for free or at greatly reduced rates. You get access to industry professionals through member-only forums to get targeted advice when you need it.
Build business connections through networking. Developing professional relationships with others in the sewing and design industry is a great way to share ideas, learn best practices, discover opportunities, and get referrals for services and vendors. Join other like-minded individuals to share, connect and collaborate to boost each other’s businesses and support camaraderie in the sewing and design community.
Increase the visibility of your business. Expand your business’ reach with free promotional features on web and social media. A listing in the Sewing Professionals Directory can put your business in front of prospective clients and offers you a referral network within which you can give and receive clients.
Formal
Membership
Is open to individuals currently running or working in a sewing and design (or related) business, either full or part-time
Create credibility for your brand. Including the ASDP logo on your website and printed materials gives your clients greater confidence in your workmanship and reinforces your company’s reputation as trustworthy.
Exclusive participation in the annual Threads Challenge, association fashion shows and showcases, and sponsored sewing and design recognition awards can set your business apart from the competition. Plus opportunities to create content, help in committees, and serve in leadership can expand your personal and professional development.
Increase your purchasing power. Take advantage of discounts or specials from vendors and suppliers, and special member pricing for MSDP/MAS Certification, University of Fashion, Threads magazine/digital access and more.
Emerging
Expand your knowledge with continuing education and training. In addition to online information resources, you receive access to seminars, webinars, online training, conferences with in-depth workshops and chapter events-many for free or at greatly reduced rates. You get access to industry professionals through member-only forums to get targeted advice when you need it.
Hone your business fundamentals. Get advice on budgeting, peer-review for your business forms, marketing tips and tricks, and more from experts in the industry. Receive personal guidance and support with priority placement in the mentoring program launching soon!
Build business connections through networking. Developing professional relationships with others in the sewing and design industry is a great way to share ideas, learn best practices, discover opportunities, and get referrals for services and vendors.
Emerging
Membership
Is open to individuals who are investigating or developing a sewing and design (or related) business. Level is restricted to a two-year limit
Join other like-minded individuals to share, connect and collaborate to boost each other’s businesses and support camaraderie in the sewing and design community.
Increase the visibility of your business. Jumpstart your brand recognition with free promotional features on web and social media.
Increase your purchasing power. Take advantage of discounts or specials from vendors and suppliers, and special member pricing for MSDP/MAS Certification, University of Fashion, Threads magazine/digital access and more.
Student Membership Benefits
Keep learning outside of the classroom ~ Join ASDP as a Student member!
Expand your knowledge with continuing education and training. In addition to online information resources, you receive access to seminars, webinars, online training, conferences with in-depth workshops and chapter events-many for free or at greatly reduced rates. You get access to industry professionals through member-only forums to get targeted advice when you need it.
Build connections through networking. Developing professional relationships with others in the sewing and design industry is a great way to share ideas, learn best practices, discover opportunities, and get referrals for internships and job placement.
Join other like-minded individuals to share, connect and collaborate to boost each other’s businesses and support camaraderie in the sewing and design community.
Student
Membership
Is open to individuals enrolled, full- or part-time, in a qualified program of study leading to a certificate, an associate, a bachelor, or an advanced degree in a business or apparel-, textile-, or merchandising-related field. Requires evidence of enrollment on initial application and for student dues renewal.
Build your resume. Grow your audience with free promotional features on web and social media. You can gain exposure through student fashion shows and showcases, and sponsored sewing and design competitions. Plus opportunities to create content and help in committees will add to your resume and expand your personal and professional development.
Increase your purchasing power. Take advantage of special member pricing for MSDP/MAS Certification, University of Fashion, Threads magazine/digital access and more.
Retired Membership Benefits
Stay involved in ASDP as a Retired member!
Expand your knowledge with continuing education and training. In addition to online information resources, you receive access to seminars, webinars, online training, conferences with in-depth workshops and chapter events-many for free or at greatly reduced rates. You don’t have to stop learning just because you are no longer running your business!
Stay connected with colleagues and friends. Maintain the professional relationships you have developed in the sewing and design industry. You are welcome to stay to share, connect and collaborate to boost each other and support camaraderie in the sewing and design community.
Retired
Membership
Is open to individuals who have retired from a sewing and design (or related) business as identified in the qualifications of Formal Membership
Share your knowledge and inspire others. Participation in the annual Threads Challenge, association fashion shows and showcases, and sponsored sewing and design recognition awards can showcase your skills. Plus opportunities to create content, help in committees, and serve in leadership can pass on your knowledge to newer entrepreneurs.
Increase your purchasing power. Take advantage of special member pricing for MSDP/MAS Certification, University of Fashion, Threads magazine/digital access and more.
Patron Membership
Stay connected to the ASDP community. Receive association news, updates, and selected communications that highlight member achievements, educational opportunities, and industry developments. This level allows you to follow the work of sewing and design professionals, celebrate their successes, and remain engaged with the broader community.
Support education and professional growth. Your participation helps sustain ASDP’s mission to provide education, promote excellence, and advocate for the sewing and design professions. By being part of the association, you contribute to programs that encourage emerging professionals, students, and established experts alike.
Enjoy a welcoming connection without business obligations. This option is designed for those who appreciate the value of professional sewing and design but do not currently operate a sewing-related business or seek business referrals,
Patron
Membership
Is open to those who specialize in some related aspect of the sewing and design industry, and may include home interior specialists, wardrobe, color and image consultants, dry cleaners, retailors, and employees in a sewing-related business. Patron Membership is also open to individuals who are not on a path to a business in the sewing and design industry.
certifications, or professional listings. It offers a way to belong, learn, and support without the expectations tied to professional practice.
By offering multiple ways to engage, ASDP ensures that professional members receive resources tailored to their businesses while also welcoming supporters who believe in the importance of craftsmanship, community, and the future of the sewing and design industry.
Chapter Membership
In addition to national membership, individuals may choose to also join one or more association chapters within their geographic area; national membership is required for chapter membership. Annual chapter dues vary by chapter and membership category, but typically range from $15-$50 per year.
Chapters hold periodic meetings which allow for local networking and coverage of a variety of business and technical topics, as well as fabric/material sourcing outings and attendance at exhibits of interest.