In the fall, my Mom and I began giving group sewing lessons to my oldest daughter (Ellie-6) and my niece (Alaina-8). My niece is in her first competitive year of 4-H, and decided she wants to do sewing. So I began teaching her sewing, and my sister (who double-majored in music - need I say more?!) is teaching my oldest son piano lessons. We laugh at what a great trade it is!
Before we began, I checked out about 10 books from the library - not sure exactly where to start when teaching little girls to sew. These 2 books were the ones I loved most. Both a combination of hand sewing, and machine sewing.
We have been alternating hand-sewing and machine sewing, so they have a firm foundation in both. I've been amazed at how quickly they absorb what's being taught. After just a few times of showing them how to thread their machines, they can both do it completely on their own.
As a parent/aunt, it thrills my heart as I watch them begin to love something I also love. Now I see why parents passed down their "skills/trades" to the next generation. Not only is the first-hand experience a huge advantage, but the satisfaction gained in the process is priceless. No, I won't force or expect any of my 3 girls to love sewing the way I do. But I cherish it when they do.
I might love this post even more than the one Ellie showed her first quilt. Your picts of their feet! ADORABLE!
ReplyDeleteYou are so nice. And yes - you are a mother so you can appreciate the picture of the feet. =)
DeleteSuch a great post! My daughter just made her first quilt top (you can view it on my blog) - her first experience at sewing and she choose one that was a bit challenging but I think she is hooked! Such a fabulous idea of using lined paper to get them used to sewing a straight line! Thanks for sharing!
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