Teaching Children To Sew

October 2009

8 October 2009 - Jo Williams

Children can sew. Sewing is an important life skill that anyone can learn, and better to start when they’re young. Children can start learning the basics of sewing and not only develop technique, but develop a sense of accomplishment and self-esteem as well.

It seems that fewer and fewer people sew as the years go by, and like most things, the older we are, the less inclined we are to try. A child can learn to sew with a needle and thread as soon as their little fingers have the dexterity necessary. Don’t start them too soon or they’ll only experience frustration.

The best projects to start with are projects that take an hour or less, so they can get immediate gratification. A project that suits their interests is a great start. Do they like to cook? A cute apron is a great first project. If they like dolls, a simple gingerbread shaped doll with a painted face works well. You can make an outfit, or buy one. Pillows are great for teaching straight lines and corners. Pot holders and sachets out of felt make great gifts for children to make and give. Girls can sew their own hair scrunchies. Boys can sew bean bags for a fun game.

Older children can successfully make T-shirts, tote bags or backpacks, Christmas stockings, and gift bags. Start them on the sewing machine with simple, straight seams and simple pattern pieces. Girls will be thrilled to carry a purse they made themselves, or show off a simple skirt. And don’t forget the boys… My boys made pillow cases and drawstring bags to carry their legos!

Patience is a Must!

When teaching children to sew, it’s necessary to have patience, instill confidence, and be attentive to them as they work, looking for moments of frustration so you can encourage and guide them through. Offer assistance gently, don’t take over their project unless they are absolutely stuck and really want you to.

It’s also important to have everything needed for the project at hand. Make sure you have all the needed tools, like scissors that fit their hands, fabrics, large-eyed needles, thread, safety pins and all the embellishments they want for the project, like beads, sequins, ribbons, buttons, etc. It’s nice to let them choose from 3 or 4 possible colors or styles, any more than that and they might get bogged down. You can even get them their own sewing kit or put one together for them that they can call their own.

Be sure to pick a project that suits their age and motor skill level, as well as their interest. First Sewing and Knitting Kits are perfect because they have everything you need for the project. Be ready to lavish lots of praise as they navigate needles, thread, scissors and fabrics. Helping children build their sense of accomplishment and self-esteem is the best reward, and gaining a life-long skill is the icing on the cake.

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