sewing evolution

it's fall break here and sewing teacher, kelly hendrickson, had day classes open during the week. both my older girls went yesterday, returning with completed reversible bags (started last session) and pajama pants. i was sew impressed!

 i like the fabrics both of them picked out, especially the green on my older daughter. when she put her pants on last night, she said, "these look like real pajama pants!" i told her they are real. likely she meant they are just like her store-bought ones. both girls are at a second session today. i think they'll either be working on a rag quilt or skirt. can't wait to see what they do!

daughter #2's bag, side A

side B

when photographing her bag this morning, she said to me, "i don't know why i put these two fabrics together! they don't really match." well, that's what i was thinking when i saw her bag, but i didn't say anything. she's learning and the more i let them explore and try on their own without interference and much guidance from me, the more i see their taste and discernment developing. i make casual (usually) suggestions when i'm involved in what they're doing, but ultimately it's up to them.

daughter #1's bag, side A

side B

while photographing this bag, d#1 said, "these are boxed corners. have you ever made them?" i admitted i hadn't yet. she then proceeded to explain to me how you make a boxed corner. awesome! i love that she knows something/did something i haven't yet.

it's been over a year now since i introduced crafting and sewing into our homeschool/family life in a concerted manner. at first i thought they weren't really catching on or that interested, and i felt slightly disappointed and frustrated. but i'm finding that the more experience they gain and by just having supplies available to them, they really are catching on, getting more interested. it's been satisfying and rewarding to watch. quite often now they'll get out their sewing boxes and tackle an idea independently or just get out idea books and browse for inspiration.

it's made me realize that they didn't have to jump into sewing whole-heartedly right from the beginning in order to like it or become life-time sewers. i'm reminded about what i know regarding so many of their learning pursuits:

1.  supply encouragement

2. give some instruction

3. model/demonstrate the desired behavior

4.  make supplies available

5.  give them time

6. be patient

7.  get out of their way!

i think the sewing classes have been helpful, but certainly not necessary to this process. a parent could provide their own classes at home. however, i think it's also good for the children to have a non-parent instructor if possible. maybe an available grandparent, neighbor, or friend could be a great teacher. there is more than one way to skin the sewing cat, so to speak.

ultimately, find what works for your family and enjoy!