Custom Workroom Conference is looking for talented workroom professionals to share skills, knowledge, techniques, and inspiration. Whether you are an experienced teacher or not, we would like to hear from you!
The education program at CWC is specifically for drapery and upholstery workroom businesses. We are looking for classes showing new methods, timeless techniques, details, specialty skills and best practices in sewing, upholstery, slipcovers, installation, and business, sales and marketing for wholesale and retail workrooms.
Custom Workroom Conference will be held Monday, September 28 - Wednesday, September 30, 2026 at the Bayfront Convention Center in Erie, PA.
Classrooms are set up with a projector and screen, lavalier microphone, whiteboard and markers, and two tables at the front of the classroom for teacher samples and materials. Class sizes range from 30 to 100 attendees.
A speaking fee of $300.00 will be paid for each 1.5-hour seminar on Monday, September 28, 2026, and $350.00 for each 2-hour seminar on Wednesday, September 30, 2026. CWC instructors can attend the event at no charge ($600.00 value) and will receive additional individualized compensation for travel and lodging. If selected as an instructor you will receive a detailed teaching agreement with terms and conditions to review.
The deadline to submit is Monday, February 2, 2026.
Final selections are based on instructor qualifications, value for workroom businesses and relevance for the overall education program. Class selections will be made by Monday, February 9, 2026 and you will be notified whether your proposal has been selected or not.
If selected as an instructor you will be required to provide a detailed description of your class topic, personal biography, and professional headshot no later than Monday, March 9, 2026.
Scroll down to complete and submit the Call for Speakers form. Submit as many topics as you like! For additional topic submissions please complete a new form. Print a copy for yourself. If you have any questions, contact Susan Woodcock, owner@customworkroomconference.com.
Thank you for your interest in contributing to CWC 2026!