Sewing: A Social Activity

Sewing is becoming more and more popular these days. Years ago most sewing was done out of need. People would use their scraps from old clothing and from bags to sew clothes and quilts for their family. In those days, looks were not the issue. Warmth and ease of use were the important considerations.

Today we sew more for fun and looks. Some types of sewing have become more of an art. Quilting, for example, has been increasingly growing across the country. Even young people are getting into the artistic qualities of the craft. Schools now offer classes for sewing and quilting.

I belong to a quilting club. We meet once a month, sometimes more. We bring our sewing machines, fabrics that members and people from the community have donated, and our usual sewing supplies. We bring our sewing machines and lunch and spend most of the day sewing.

The items we have been making recently are chemo hats for cancer patients who have lost their hair. Our club has made many quilts for them and other things such as clothes protectors, catheter bags and other necessary items.

We have made teddy bears, dolls, and other toys for needy children. We have also made many hats and mittens for needy children. We donated quilts to many different organizations and hospitals in the county.

This year we made up book bags for Head Start programs in the area, and the members of the community donated books, colors, pencils, notebooks, glue and more. We delivered them just before Christmas. I was amazed to see how happy these children were to each get their very own book bags, books and supplies. Even the teachers were very happy to receive the extra supplies.

I joined this club more than a year ago. I have made new friends, and learned many new things. Helping others has been a very heartwarming experience for me. Many websites have patterns for different items to make for the needy and tell you what they need and where to send them.

There are several fabric stores and craft stores that offer sewing and quilting courses. They also offer knitting and crocheting classes as well. Some of them are also one-day projects, for those who do not have a lot of time to run back and forth to classes. Some fabric stores have sessions where they give you many ideas for holiday crafts.

Sewing has also become a relaxing hobby. Today people like to decorate their homes with their own personal touch. Making your own curtains and pillows is a very creative and rewarding activity. There are many other groups in the area for sewing and quilting.

If you have sewing skills, maybe you could join a charity organization, or teach a child to sew, or make items to donate to your community. If you do not, try taking a class or joining a club and learning. Many people would love to share their knowledge with you.

Sewing has certainly become a very social activity. I am so grateful for the opportunity to help others and the chance to get together for some quality time with friends and neighbors.