petthefabric

I have 2 youth students. The 11 y/o is extremely creative. She's less strong at buckle down with the work. She goes from one fast/creative project to the next. Today I pulled up the internet for project ideas. Was all stuffed animals. In 6 months she's made 12+ stuffed animals. She settled on a "that's adorable" pot holder with the shape of a bunny. I think she has tremendous potential, if she can have perseverence. Also, she chooses adorable far above her skill level. Each session I try to discuss next project and what they'll need to bring. At the store she chooses "adorable" over planned project.

If she comes unprepared, what should I do? Should I let her try the project she's brought that's far beyond her skill level (such as sewing velvet of silk jersey)? When she fails she disolves into tears. I think she's very talented. Maybe that's made it too easy to perform acceptably without the work required. When we get to a time crunch, I probably do too much of the sewing for her.

I'm trying to figure out how to help her learn life skills.

What ideas do you have for 4 hour projects requiring attention concentration, commitment, perseverence and labor. They also need to be adorable. And probably can be made from my scrap bin (she's rarely prepared-we've discussed this too).

She wants to make a skirt for sister. It'll be ruffled tiers and elastic waist. With pockets. I'm dreaming how to make this easiest.