Why Sewing Should Be Included in the School Curriculum

Knowing how to sew was once a necessary skill in our culture. Before mass production became commonplace, fabric items such as clothes and linens had to be created as needed by individuals. Even though today it is actually more convenient to purchase ready-made garments and household items, learning to sew can provide many benefits. It is well worth the time and effort to master the basics of sewing and teach them to the next generation. Many areas of study can be reinforced by creating an item from fabric.

Art

When initially planning a sewing project, the first consideration is the blending of textures and colors. This process can help the student develop an "eye" for complimentary colors as well as a "feel" for putting together varying textures for the desired effect.

Math

Most sewing projects require some measurement. By sewing a pillow or a simple shirt, the student learns to use a tape measure and gains understanding of the relationships of fractional parts of inches or centimeters. Working on a more intricate project, such as a quilt, reinforces geometry concepts as the student studies the placement of different shapes and the relationship of angles.

Following Directions

If a pattern is being used, the student must be able to interpret the written directions in order to complete the project. The sewing must be done in a sequential order; this is especially helpful for the person who struggles with following through with a task. The steps are listed, and for the project to be successful, they must be followed as written, so the sew-er is encouraged to take his time and not skip steps to try to speed up the process.

Vocabulary

Reading the pattern instructions will sometimes require a knowledge of basic sewing terminology: baste, backstitch, selvage, grain line. Not only is the sew-er reading and following directions, he is also acquiring a working vocabulary of new terminology.

Besides reinforcing the usual school "report card" subjects, learning to sew can also enhance a student's personal life.

Persistence

Most sewing projects take more than just a few minutes. They demand breaking the task up into manageable segments in order to complete a project. This helps the student learn that larger jobs take time and they must be taken on little by little until the task in finished. This is a lesson that will help in many areas of life.

Confidence

Confidence is gained by attempting a challenge and mastering it. Even if the finished product is not perfect, completing a sewing project brings a sense of pride and accomplishment. New skills are learned with each new project, and knowledge is built upon prior knowledge.

Self-Expression

Any item purchased at a major chain store is identical to thousands of others. With simple sewing skills, a student can make an outfit or backpack or pillow that is unique and expressive of his personality.

Contributing to the Community

Knowing basic sewing skills can save money and help recycle fabric. Instead of replacing a garment with a minor wear-and-tear issue, the seamstress can mend the rip or reattach the button. Too-short jeans can be cut up and made into bags or caps or quilts or pillows. A knowledgeable sew-er can help the environment by repurposing or recycling fabric in creative and useful ways.

Sewing is an art form that we must not let disappear. Let's pass it down to the upcoming generation and reap the benefits for the students as well as for our culture.