As long as you explain safety precautions and how to use the tools first, the kids do well. I have had 4 year olds cutting and sewing and seven year olds using the rotary cutters. The children are never left unsupervised, and reminded of safety rules. I believe the tools should be the proper ones as well as sharp and easy to use. I think the accidents happen more if one is struggling with blunt or inadequate tools that are not sharp enough to do the job. If you do the cutting and sewing the kids don't get used to using the tools properly.My sister and I used to cook family meals from the age of 9 and our practise came earlier than that, so I think sewing is the same.