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When can children start learning to sew?

You can practise sewing with your little ones and awaken their creativity from an early age. It is advisable to practise using a needle and thread by hand first and only switch to a sewing machine later.

In kindergarten, coarse fabrics and blunt needles are more suitable. In primary school, you can then sew with sharp needles under supervision. Small stitches are no big deal - the pain is quickly forgotten and the children become more confident with the needles each time.

At some point, the children can learn to sew with a sewing machine. The young sewers can hardly wait to finally be allowed to use the sewing machine! There are special children's sewing machines for this purpose, which usually have a built-in finger guard. At the beginning, it is advisable to work on the sewing machine together with the children. It also makes sense to reduce the speed until the child is familiar with the machine. Children should be able to reach the pedal easily and sit up straight. Pre-made patterns can also make sewing easier for children at the beginning.

Preparation

In advance discuss with the children which sewing project they would like to tackle. If you want to carry out a sewing project in kindergarten, it makes sense to give the children 2-3 suggestions from which they can choose one. It can also be helpful for the children if you make templates beforehand. The children can then trace the template with a pencil and later cut out the fabric according to the pattern.

Ideas for sewing with children

One of the most important criteria when choosing a sewing project for children is the level of difficulty. Most sewing projects for children should be relatively easy to sew so that they don't get discouraged. Ideally, the patterns should be pre-drawn and the pieces of the fabric should be pre-cut so that all the children have to do is sew.

Another important criterion is the size of the project. Of course, the children want to hold something tangible in their hands at the end of the project. It is therefore important that the project can be completed in a reasonable amount of time. Otherwise there is a risk that the children will lose interest in the whole thing and not finish it.

• Simple bag or pouch pattern using simple fabric patterns: This is a great first sewing project for children as it is relatively easy and quick to sew. Children can let their imagination run wild with their choice of fabric to create their very own unique design.
• Key fob: This is another very simple project, but one that offers a lot of creative freedom. Children can combine different fabrics and shapes to create their very own personalised key ring.
• Cuddly toys: Cuddly toys are always a good idea, especially if they are homemade! There are endless possibilities here - from simple animals such as bears or rabbits to more exotic creatures such as dragons or unicorns. Depending on which template you use, this project can take a little more time, but it is definitely worth it!

How about friendship bracelets, bookmarks, a little monkey or a little frog as a doorstop? You can find these and much more in the book "Das Nähbuch für Kinder - alles von Hand genäht"with detailed instructions including patterns. You will need colourful fabrics and ribbons, socks, flannels or craft felt, needle and thread. You can find out everything else in this book. A little sewing school, detailed instructions.

Sewing is a wonderful activity for children of all ages. It is a creative activity that helps children develop their hand-eye coordination. In primary school, sewing is a great way to give children an insight into a traditional craft. With a little patience and practice, children can learn how to create simple sewing projects and give free rein to their creativity.