I learned to sew as a child in the '70s. My mom taught me and my grandmother taught her. Back then that is what happened - but today, between cheer and sports and (dare I say) electronics, some think of sewing as having gone extinct. It is talked about with long words, but no one experiences it first hand anymore... until now!
When was the last time you threw away a shirt because it had a small tear? Or couldn't hem your pants? Or paid a ton of money for a simple Halloween costume? Sewing is a life skill that can save you time and money. In addition to those practical savings, sewing can be a tool for teaching important life skills such as perseverance, patience, concentration, and creativity. I teach Introduction to Machine Sewing at my home in Damascus, and find it's a wonderful way to teach girls and boys these very important skills.
In my classes, I encourage kids to go SLOW. I am often saying, "We are in no rush... slow down." Kids today are asked in school, at sports and at home to hurry, but sewing is just the opposite. Kids need to slow down in sewing (and life). There’s real value in understanding that mastering a skill requires taking your time and paying attention.
Many parts of sewing require patience. From threading a needle to really getting a straight seam, patience is the key. I will not help after one try in my classes. I encourage three tries and then I will guide you. Many kids today have a "one try" attitude - one attempt and it's too hard and I quit. In my classes, three times is the charm. I will guide you again after you try three times and I will not do it for you... so don't even ask!
Sewing requires concentration. It involves putting down the phone, forgetting about what happened at recess, and really truly concentrating on what you are doing. I stress safety foremost in my classes. Being safe while sewing requires you to have your hands and mind focused on one task.
Many times we don't let children be creative and let them really choose to be unique. You might not let you child wear polka dots and stripes to school but you CAN let them make a wild pillowcase or PJ pants... maybe even with two legs of different patterns. Choosing fabric, embellishments and designs are a lot of fun and when we let them, kids can be amazing designers!
My favorite part of class is when a child (or adult) sees the finished project and BEAMS with pride. They made it! They took the time and MADE something that they are proud of. That alone is a wonderful thing!
Mary Ann Varley has a Facebook page for her Damascus sewing class, You Too Can Sew. You can also contact her via email at Varleyfour@yahoo.com Mention this article and she'll give you $5 off any class!
