Sewing studio setup I am starting my 6th semester of teaching sewing to kids. I started early in 2011 and have completed two semesters each year since, as well as two summer camps.
I have learned so much!
I have learned how to find students, but mostly they have found me.
I have learned that not all children learn the same way. (I knew that, but now I know it again.) I have learned that some can learn simply by reading the written directions and following them. Others could care less about written instructions and just want to be shown every step. And some would just like to venture out on what feels right, but unfortunately sewing that way is not very forgiving.
I have learned that four students is the optimal size for a class of kids.
I have learned that a two-hour class is more challenging than my usual 75 minute one, but that in the early days they also really want to finish a project each time they come.
I have learned a few tricks to make it easier for them to understand certain concepts. For instance when a little one is supposed to bring up the bobbin thread, and she just sits there blankly and looks at her machine; I say, "Get your fishing rod and catch a fish". She immediately moves into action, grabbing the needle thread in one hand (her left, if she remembers) and turning the hand wheel with the other until her 'fish' - the loop of bobbin thread - comes up through the hole in the needle plate.
I have learned to search the internet to find out how to do things or to find projects that are simple enough for a child to learn.
I have learned how to set up my home sewing studio so it's an inviting place to be, but also in such a way that I can put everything away (including tables) with a limited amount of effort when we need the space for family gatherings and other events.
I have learned that I have a very supportive and encouraging husband who has absolutely no interest in sewing but listens to me anyway when I go on and on about something exciting in (what someone else has dubbed) my "shiny, happy world".
I have learned so much!
I have learned how to find students, but mostly they have found me.
I have learned that not all children learn the same way. (I knew that, but now I know it again.) I have learned that some can learn simply by reading the written directions and following them. Others could care less about written instructions and just want to be shown every step. And some would just like to venture out on what feels right, but unfortunately sewing that way is not very forgiving.
I have learned that four students is the optimal size for a class of kids.
I have learned that a two-hour class is more challenging than my usual 75 minute one, but that in the early days they also really want to finish a project each time they come.
I have learned a few tricks to make it easier for them to understand certain concepts. For instance when a little one is supposed to bring up the bobbin thread, and she just sits there blankly and looks at her machine; I say, "Get your fishing rod and catch a fish". She immediately moves into action, grabbing the needle thread in one hand (her left, if she remembers) and turning the hand wheel with the other until her 'fish' - the loop of bobbin thread - comes up through the hole in the needle plate.
I have learned to search the internet to find out how to do things or to find projects that are simple enough for a child to learn.
I have learned how to set up my home sewing studio so it's an inviting place to be, but also in such a way that I can put everything away (including tables) with a limited amount of effort when we need the space for family gatherings and other events.
I have learned that I have a very supportive and encouraging husband who has absolutely no interest in sewing but listens to me anyway when I go on and on about something exciting in (what someone else has dubbed) my "shiny, happy world".
