We started with three weeks of basic sewing skills. This included tying knots and threading needles, which proved to be far more challenging then I had realized. They had a choice of simple projects, using either fabric or felt. These included bookmarks, pillows, purses, stuffed animals and cubes, or anything else they wanted to make. Many of them also chose to learn some embroidery stitches to use on their projects. One student drew a detailed picture, which he is embroidering and framing.
The next phase was learning about circuits, and then designing an E-Textiles project. About half of the students decided to continue on and do this, while others either continued to work on sewing projects, or chose not to participate. The first week I had everyone make paper circuits to help them understand how they would have to construct their circuit when sewing. They created a card and we used LEDs with bendable “legs”, copper tape and coin cell batteries to light up their design. Everyone was successful and excited about the next phase.
We spent four more weeks working on their projects. Some of them chose to use their sewing project, rather than create something new. So we had a pig pillow, whose nose would light up when you snapped the two parts of its tail together, and a green monster pillow, with a LED on its head that would light up when he clapped his hands together. Others created new felt bookmarks, and all were delighted when their LEDs actually lit up!
The creation of the sewing club was in response to an interest expressed by my students. I decided to combine basic sewing with E-textile projects to offer more choice and individual expression. The experience offered students an opportunity to work with their hands in new and creative ways, while developing many other important skills. They faced challenges, and had to use patience and perseverance, along with problem-solving skills. Throughout the weeks, I saw students engaged, curious and motivated, ultimately exhibiting pride and a sense of accomplishment with their finished projects.
I enjoyed it as much as the students!
Carla Lewis