Sewing is a great skill to instruct your children; it will come in handy as they age. Because our cities are returning to the idea of being ‘crafty,’ many places now offer lessons and classes so that we can begin making things or fixing things for ourselves. It can also be a lovely experience to watch someone you love sew and feel like you want to be a part of that magic. Many families have said later in life that they loved learning to sew as a family and that it made them feel more connected. With that thought in mind, check out our great picks for where your child should start their journey!
The Portland Fashion Institute
The Portland Fashion Institute has offered sewing classes for ages eight to thirteen for a while, and if you haven’t checked it out yet, it’s worth your time. The class teaches your children to make pajama pants, robes, and drawstring backpacks (the first two will be in the later level classes). The level one class will help you learn about your machine and create a tote bag.
You can create a robe with cute fabric and sew sleeves at level three. You can even have a sewing birthday party at the institute so your child’s friends can enjoy their new hobby! The classes are a hundred dollars, and the site provides a complete list of supplies you’ll need. If you don’t have your sewing machine, don’t despair. You can rent one for ten dollars a session!
Jolene’s is about twenty minutes from Portland (depending on traffic). The school believes in teaching a ‘lost art’ to young people. The classes are small and consist of four people. They are held indoors for one hour per week. Classes are open to children aged six to twelve from September to May. You can start at any time during this period. There is a one-time registration fee of forty dollars, and the classes are sixty dollars a month. It is also required to pay in person on the first day of class.
The school will provide the sewing machine, but you must bring your fabric and notions (such as buttons or ribbons). People have said that they love Jolene because she’s a sweet, warm, and patient person who makes the classes fun for little ones. She’s worth checking out. Since her classes are small, be sure to register as soon as you can!
Modern Domestic offers fun fabrics and patterns. While the classes are aimed at older children (around eight and up), the classes are still a great option. Their learn-to-sew class for children is seventy-five dollars for a two-and-a-half-hour class. It teaches the fundamentals of your machine before practicing essential stitches, using the sewing tools, and learning how to measure and cut. You’ll have a bag to take home at the class’s end. The best part? All the supplies are included in the class cost, and they have machines for you to use, so you don’t have to bring your own!
Tati & Me’s studio has a sweet story. The owner loved sitting next to her grandmother and watching her craft. As she watched, she fell in love with making things. When her daughter Tatiana (Tati) was born, she began making clothes and experimenting. That inspired her to make Tati & Me after the birth of her son. Just three years ago, she turned half of her studio into a teaching space, and now students of all ages can learn here.
You can choose between the multiple classes she has listed on her site. One such class will let your child design a halter dress. The cost is one hundred and twenty-five dollars for four hours. During this time, the class learns about the machine and how to make easy projects, and then they get into the final project. You don’t need sewing experience; your child will gain sketching, fabric selection, and sewing experience. The only rule is that your child be aged six or higher. The children can also bring a snack and a water bottle, as the class is longer.
Sewing Is a Skill That Will Stay with You
Sewing is a beautiful way for families to connect. It’s also a skill that your child can use in the future and create stunning new memories. Each class on this list will give your child a great look at fundamentals and how to get started. Now, you only have to decide which of these fun instructors you will have them learn from!
Jenifer Dale is a writer that has a passion for reading and helping others. When she is not writing, she loves cooking, crocheting, and spending time with her family.