5 Ways to Celebrate National Sewing Month

National Sewing Month is upon us! The observance of National Sewing Month began in 1982 with a proclamation from President Ronald Reagan declaring September as National Sewing Month. According to President Reagan National Sewing Month was to recognize the importance of home sewing in our nation. Beginning in 2008, the event implemented an environmental theme with the slogan "Go Green! Sew Green!" Since then the event has encouraged participants to purchase eco friendly supplies, adopt a consciousness of recycling, and restyle or repurpose old items through the use of the sewing skills.

National Sewing Month is the perfect time to dive into your passion or pick up a new craft if you haven't already tried sewing. The month long even is a joint effort between the Sewing and Craft Alliance and the American Sewing guild in an effort to recognize those who sew and educate others on the craft. Fortunately, there are many ways you can partake in this month long event.

Celebrate National Sewing Month Tip #1: Visit a local fabric store.

Many fabric, quilt, and sewing stores across the country are offering classes and workshops for beginners and those wanting to polish up their sewing skills. You can also find some great sales on sewing machines at the local JoAnn Fabric and Craft Stores if your current machine needs and upgrade.

Celebrate National Sewing Month Tip #2: Organize your own event.

If you are already a sewing aficionado and want to share the craft with others you can organize your own event. Have a sewing party in your living room, offer to teach your neighbors how to sew, or teach the kids on your block a new craft. If you are new to sewing then take your neighbor up on their offer.

Celebrate National Sewing Month Tip #3: Volunteer

If you are rather experienced in the field of sewing you can put your skills to good use by volunteering. You can volunteer your time to teach at local youth organizations like the Boys and Girls Club or 4H.

Celebrate National Sewing Month Tip #4: Join your local chapter of the American Sewing Guild.

If you want to learn some new skills or just polish up the ones you already have, then you should join the local chapter of the American Sewing Guild. As a guild member you get discounts from many fabric stores and are part of a sewing community with activities and events. Even novices can join and learn from those who are more experienced.

Celebrate National Sewing Month Tip #5: Sew More Often.

By sewing your own clothes, bags, and accessories you are your own maker while saving the planet. The more you sew the less companies use children in third world country sweat shops. Furthermore, if you learn to repurpose and reuse fewer resources are wasted in making new clothes.

For more information about the month long event visit the National Sewing Month website.

Sources:
American Sewing Guild
National Sewing Month
Sewing and Craft Alliance Press Release