Sewing For Kids With Pins & Needles

One step inside Pins & Needles, a new craft haven on the Upper East Side, and eyes are met with endless swaths of color. One wall is lined with an array of patterned fabrics; the other features shelves of books, tapes, and threads. Student-made clothing and bags deck the walls, and ample work tables beg for more project-making. Mere steps away from the busy New York City scenery outside, the cozy studio is a perfect space for kids and adults alike to explore their creative sides.

Rachel Low, the founder of Pins & Needles, didn’t expect teaching to be a large part of her sewing-focused studio when it opened in January 2011. Originally a shop where she could offer an edited collection of fabrics that couldn’t be found in big box stores, the retail space was perfect inspiration for introducing classes here and there. Before long, the classes grew and eager students showed up steadily.

The studio has greatly expanded its classes since then, attracting children ages 7-14 and adults looking to learn how to sew, embroider, and explore “modern crafts” like studding sneakers. Rachel and her small (but growing) staff teach private and semi-private sewing classes ranging from garment- to home décor-making, with a mixture of other DIY projects. For children, embroidery has proven to be most popular, and Rachel gears projects to match their skill levels. “Kids think it’s ‘so cool’ to make something and then wear or use it,” Rachel says. “When they can share what they’ve made with their friends and family, they feel incredibly proud.”

What’s most important to Rachel is creating an environment where students can be “sew-cial” and have fun. “It’s all about being creative, being social, and learning about process and patience—nothing intense,” Rachel explains. The intimate class sizes of three to seven allow for lots of natural interaction while students work and express their personal styles.

Still, as fun and creative as they are, Rachel’s classes also encourage the patience required to learn a new skill. “It’s about practice, not being perfect,” Rachel explains. Her goal is not only to teach her students how to make something, but also to teach valuable skills they can use outside of the studio. As she says, these finished creations come from “problem solving, patience, and being confident in your choice of fabric and how you want your project to look.” With so much more to take home than a pretty end product, it’s no surprise that students of all skill levels and ages keep coming back.

Where To Begin With Sewing

To get kids into sewing, Rachel suggests starting off with at least one formal class for guidance and confidence-building. Using sewing machines, after all, requires getting used to the needle and other mechanics that children might be nervous about. But once they become comfortable with operating the machine, they can begin to learn other skills.

Take the kids to a store so they can marvel at all the colors and textures. Once they have some inspiration, meet with an instructor for general tips and an appropriate pattern for their projects. For beginners, Rachel suggests items like:

Mini Purse: Pins & Needles novice classes often include simple projects like this that can be made in one or two hours, because immediate gratification is important for maintaining interest.

Elastic Waistband Skirt: This easy-to-make garment requires only one piece of fabric—and can be shown off for a nice sense of accomplishment.

Pillowcase: A tried and true beginner project. The possibilities for fabric are endless, so have fun!

Photos by Aaron Adler

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