Sewing work

A while back I was looking through the school library.  I found a craft book and brought it in the classroom for the children to see because it seemed like something they would gravitate toward.  It was a book about creating creatures out of fabric.  After looking through it for some time and making prototypes out of paper, the children were committed to the idea of investing more time.  They started their work with Ms. Amy on making plans.  We wanted to make stuffed animals!

Starting the work with discussing how toymakers come up with the ideas to make toys, the children were ready to work.  Drawing on paper, they sketched out creatures inspired by the book or by their own imagination.  This took a day.    Ms. Amy then went home and made up patterns for each child's drawing.  The next time they met with Ms. Amy they had the very important task of choosing fabric and textures to use.  With so many choices, I imagine it was hard to narrow down what would work best!

From there Ms. Amy did most of the fabric cutting (children's scissors are not made for fabric) and collected what was needed.  Some children needed extra fabric for ears, a tail, eyes, a collar, or a shirt.  

Then came sewing! 

Ms. Amy brought up the importance of needles, how to thread them, how to make a knot, and strategies that work best.  Peeking across the room, I would see patient purposeful movements, focused eyes, and intentional fingers. 

Each time a group met with Ms. Amy they would take their bag of supplies, thread a needle, and get to sewing.  This was their time to continue on their project at their own pace.  Each child is at a different place in their sewing work.  This has been a great opportunity to talk about the importance of long-term work.  Yes, we could spend the entire day working on this, but it is good to give your eyes and brain a break so you can do your best work.  

We are all very excited to see how this project evolves, so look for updates soon!