Sewing classes for children have always been an important part of my teaching programme. I learned to use a sewing machine at the age of seven, and it shaped everything that came after — confidence, creativity, independence, and eventually a career. So I’m a firm believer that children should learn to sew when they’re young (boys and girls alike). It’s a life skill that stays with them forever.

Bridging the Generation Gap

These days, though, there’s often a generation gap. Many parents didn’t learn to sew at school, and home sewing skipped a generation. But that doesn’t mean today’s parents can’t support their children. Skills can be learned at any age, and it’s never too late to “backtrack” and pick up the basics. In fact, that’s exactly why I now run Family Sewing Classes – so adults and children can learn together, build confidence side by side, and make sure young sewists have someone at home who understands the essentials.

A Family Sewing Session at Artisan Stitch

Recently at Artisan Stitch, I held one of these sessions for children and their parents. To join, you had to be under 16 and bring a parent (or guardian). Sophie (9) and Libby (12) arrived with their mums, Jen and Jackie, and both girls threw themselves into the lesson with huge enthusiasm. They completed their sewing practice sheets, then passed their Sewing Machine Driving Tests with distinction.

A Prickly Project

Our project for the day was pincushions — colourful, practical, and perfect for beginners. By the end of the morning we had a cheerful collection of finished pieces, and everyone (including me) thoroughly enjoyed themselves. I’m expecting to see both girls back in the studio soon… and perhaps their mums too.

If you’d like to explore sewing as a shared activity, my Family Sewing Classes are designed exactly for this — a relaxed, supportive way for children to learn safely, with an adult who can help them at home.

⭐ Update

Since that first class, Sophie has continued her sewing journey and completed her Level 2 week. She’s also joined Young Embroiderers, the youth section of the Embroiderers’ Guild (Edinburgh Branch). Her mum, Jen, now helps out at the sessions and has discovered a love of embroidery herself. Sophie is determined to become a fashion designer — and she’s well on her way.

Libby also returned for further lessons, making make‑up bags and cushions. She even set up a little business selling her make‑up bags in the school playground at lunchtime — a young entrepreneur in the making.