Teaching the Art of Sewing​​​

What parents need to know 

"Sewing takes time to learn and sewing skills are enhanced with practice"
                                                               mrs Kate

How long does it take for a child to learn to sew

This depends on a child's confidence. If they have talked about learning to sew, they may be ready.  They are really ready to learn when they are making doll clothes out of paper or if they are interested in handstitching. 

The first 4 classes are skill-builders with lots of practice. It's not easy to stitch straight or curved lines.

Classes

Each beginner, regardless of age, must take the Machine Class. 

The machine class shows them tips and techniques that will make sewing fun, as well as help to create good sewing skills and habits, while breaking any the bad ones. 

Sewing machine troubleshooting is very important and helps prevent damage to the machine and garment.  The machine class helps students troubleshoot and stay ahead of potential sewing machine problems.

What tools will they need?

The following is a good start.
Students build tools and supplies as they sew.
  • Machine needles size 12 or 14 
  • 100% polyester threads - small spools (125)
  • Small fabric only scissors
  • Snips for threads
  • Medium all purpose plastic head pins
  • Seam ripper



What Fabrics to use?

Where to find fabric?

How to take the fun out of sewing

The local fabric store (starts with a J) has the most options.

The second store (starts with a W) has all the supplies needed and offers an excellent selection but not as much. 

Online is a good source for bulk items like zippers, buttons, snaps, etc.

Remnants: are end cuts 
Fat quarters are sold everywhere and come in 18x21 inch cuts of fabric. 
1/2 yard cuts of fabric: Will make 100's of projects
Parents should remember that asking their child to do any of the following, while they are in the beginning stages of the learning process, will "take the fun out of sewing".

Insisting that your little stitcher:
  • Hem your pants
  • Replace your missing buttons
  • Fix or repair a tear in your jacket
  • Replace a zipper in a skirt
  • Make your clothing 
  • USE A PATTERN - not a good place to start for young beginners- 
 
Woven (nonstretch) fabrics are the best fabrics for beginners to practice with.

Stretchy fabrics take experience and can frustrate a beginner.

Silky fabrics are not a good choice for beginners.

Fleece is a good choice for beginners. The up side to fleece is that there are many color options.  Although it's considered a stretch fabric, it's bulkiness is good for small fingers.