Learning to sew

"Mum, we REALLY want to learn to sew, plllleeeeeasse!!!!"

Well, they see me with the machine out often enough, so they obviously think that it can't be all that difficult. ☺

Actually, Maestro was very interested to know that sewing used to be considered a man's work when the sewing machine was first invented, so there was no holding him back. Mariposa's already trying to decide what clothes she wants to make.

Well, we're starting at the very beginning. I sourced this lovely book which teaches children to sew step by step, with lots of fun activities to help with their practice. It's called "The Best of Sewing Machine Fun for Kids".



These were the pages we worked on today, each child taking their turn.



This was our 3rd lesson, so all I needed to do was set up the machine, hand each child a photocopy of the activity page, go through the safety rules, and they were happy to work away whilst I ironed (and took some photos!)



My machine is very basic: a Janome MyExcel 4018. I especially like how the pedal has a speed adjusting switch, so the children can use it on "Low" whilst learning. Other than needing a needle replaced after sewing on paper, I do hope to get a few good years out it.