Radiana

Just put in an order for my grandson's Christmas present. I got him a Brother 25 stitch XL-2600i. He's 6 years old and has sat on my lap a few times when I've sewed and had fun so I know he'll be thrilled with it. For a couple of years now he's made costumes out of paper and tape and when the tape ran out........scotch, masking, duct and electrical he's resorted to using staples.

Radiana

Oops, didn't get to finish my post. Just wanted a little advice about what fabrics to get him started with. He could make some capes for super hero costumes, maybe some vests. Does anyone have experience teaching children to sew? All suggestions welcome. Thanks so much.

QuiltingKrazy

I just bought my 32yr old son a used machine for his Christmas present too! He has done all types of art, paint, pencil, etc.... but a few days ago he has finally decided he wants to work with fabric! YEA! I know your heart will soar sky high when you see your grandson's first project on his machine!

psychonurse

you can use pages out of a coloring book, and start him off "sewing" along the outside lines without a needle and then when he progresses, use a needle. he can learn to go slowly around curves etc.

Amythyst02

It is very good your going to teach him to sew. Being a designer, you do have to be able to sew, as well as design the costume/outfit. He will need to be able to make the patterns he designs.

I tried to teach my daughter because I wanted her to learn to sew, the only problem was she had "zero" interest, so it was not a very good experience. I have no ideas to offer you, but I wish well on your new adventure with him, and I am sure you both will enjoy the time together learning this new hobby for him.

buslady

Teach him to keep his fingers away from the needle. Then give him some scraps and let him go. My gkids all sew. They make little pillows. I save all my fabric trimmings and they use them for stuffing. Maybe the seams arent perfect, lots of raw edges, etc. but the creativity is there, and you can GENTLY offer advice and assistance along the way. Pushing for perfection will only push them away. I buy fleece remnants at joannes for them, as well. This fabric is very forgivingof variable seam allowances. Big squares sewn together and fringed can make grandpa a lap blanket he will cherish. Don't forget the label. Marking pens on muslin is a good medium for this task.
Good luck, and happy stitching fromm a gran of 8.

kateyb

I taught my 2 boys and 2 girls to sew as well as my youngest son's best friend. They all still do simple repairs on their cloths. My youngest daughter does more sewing when she has time (she runs a business). My son's friend is into Renaissance fairs and he makes all of his own cotumes. He is this big strong guy so many people are surprised.
The best way to teach is to start with paper with no threadin the machine. I drew straight lines, stars, large circles , etc. to get them comfortable with guiding things through the machine.
He will have lots of great memories of his grandma in years to come.

Lisa_wanna_b_quilter

What a wonderful gift! I'd say once you are comfortable with him using the machine, start with capes. Capes are easy to make and many great costumes need a cape. Simple dress/robe type costumes are easy, too. Think wise men looking costume.

He sounds like a creative kid. Maybe you should watch the sales at Joann's and pick up a couple of 99 cent costume patterns and see what happens. I'm sure the two of you could have a ball with them!

quiltmom04

Yeah, that sounds like when my son started drums and the teacher made him " drum " in the air for so long he quit. Let him actually sew a line with thread. It's no fun sewing a piece of paper!

Teddybear Lady

My great grandmother used to let me sew pages out of catalogs using her treadle machine. I had so much fun. I get my love for sewing from her. I'm now 60 and I still remember the fun time I had.