The Gift of Sewing

My father gave me a sewing machine for Christmas my freshman year because my major in college was Home Economics. I remember thinking, "Why would he give me this, I don't even sew!" Who knew it would be one of the greatest gifts I ever got.

So I understand when people wonder why you would teach a kid to sew. Sewing has served me well, into many ways to count. 

Of course, it is helpful to know the basics: 

• sewing a button
• hemming 
• repairing a seam

Note- It is a source of pride that several of my now grown nephews have their own sewing machines and mend the clothing in their families.

Top 5 Reasons to Teach Kids to Sew

#1 - Empowerment

Taking a flat piece of fabric and making it into something you can use is very empowering. Tip: When sewing with kids, help them choose projects they don't have to wear, and where straight and accurate seams are not critical.

#2 Creativity

This is a quilt that my nieces and nephews made for their Mom. They each drew a picture, and then I helped them translate that to the fabric.  It is such a great snapshot in time.

#3 Solutions

I taught at Donegal Middle School and often made quilt wall hangings. This served two functions.

• Celebrating special events like this quilt for our annual Arts Da (UA DAY)
• Decorating the hallways with sound-absorbing fabric while providing some cushioning for middle schools who literally bounce off the walls.

During the 2020 pandemic quarantine, Mom and I made 1009 facemasks to donate to people and organizations in need. This gave us a great purpose that helped others while filling our days.

#4 Celebrating

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I used Jed and Kate's invitation to create a ring bearer pillow to be used in their wedding. The white hearts on the left of the orange hearts represent Jed's family. Kate's family is on the right. The fabric is an old linen napkin from Jed's Grandma. ​

#5 Honoring 

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This was my first Bearloom. The fabrics come from my Mother's lambswool coat, Dad's Christmas blazer, Grandma's blue overcoat, and Grandpa's deerskin. One was made for each of my 5 siblings, and Mom and Dad.

I often think back of unwrapping that first machine and thank Papa for having such foresight. For me, sewing has been a remarkable tool to create endless solutions and close connections with people I love. ​