Sew Happy

I started teaching the children how to use a sewing machine this week. Shira wanted to start on a nightgown and Ben had some suitably complex plan in mind. It took a lot to convince them that we should start with simple, straight sewing.

Finally we compromised on making quilts. There's enough apparent complexity to make both kids happy and yet it only involves straight sewing.



Ben finished half his squares this morning and plans on finishing the rest tomorrow. Poor kid doesn't realize that the hard work starts after he's made the squares.

I learned a very valuable lesson. If you can't find your rotary cutter, go and buy a new one, do not attempt to cut quilting pieces with a pair of scissors. A job that should have been a doddle was a nightmare because I used scissors. I'll post pics once the kids have finished their quilts.

Watch One, Do One, Teach One

My kids have boundless self confidence. The latest example is tickling me no end. Last week Shira asked me to teach her to sew. We cut out a dolly from felt and I taught her how to sew a running stitch. She did her running stitch around the doll's outline and then because the stitches were rather large, I had her do another round.

The doll looked cute once it was finished. However, in her mind, she is now an expert. She is busy making herself another doll and has plans to teach our sitter how to sew tomorrow. I love it.