ng tools to cut fabric.
- They gain confidence! From choosing a quilt design and picking out the fabric, to sewing the final stitch in a quilt, children gain immense confidence when quilting. The look on a child's face when their project is finished is priceless.
- Quality time! Children love quality time with their family members or friends. I have had many wonderful conversations with my daughter while we were quilting.
- It's fun!
Ways to Quilt with Children
- One-on-one with your child/grandchild.
- Teach your child/grandchild and their friends.
- Arrange a time to do a class project in your child/grandchild's class. Tie the project in to a lesson they are working on.
- Offer classes to local children for fees. There are children interested in taking quilting classes and it's a great way to earn extra money.
- If you are not a quilter, many local shops offer classes for kids, some even offer parent/child classes.
Children will use the following common quilting tools. Before a project is started, make sure the children are comfortable using the tools.
- Rotary cutter and mat - used for cutting fabric. The rotary cutter is extremely sharp.
- Iron and ironing board - used for ironing fabric. A hot iron can cause severe burns.
- Rulers - used for measuring and cutting fabric.
- Sewing machine - for sewing fabric. A sharp needle moves quickly up and down.
- Needles and pins - for sewing and pinning. Fingers can get poked with pins.
- Scissors - for cutting fabric and thread. Sharp blades can cut easily.
Children should be supervised at all times when quilting.
I cannot overemphasize this statement enough. When quilting with children the most important thing to consider is safety. Quilting is filled with all sorts of hazards for young hands. Razor sharp rotary cutters, scissors, needles and hot irons are used all the time. Also, know the child you are working with. Some children may not be quite ready to quilt, even with supervision.
Before starting any project make sure to go over every tool that will be used. Explain what the tool is used for and the dangers of the tool. Show the child how to use the tool and, if the tool has a safety feature, demonstrate that as well. Never assume the child knows the dangers.
Let children try out the tools before a project is started. It is best that they are comfortable and familiar with the things they will be using. It will help avoid any accidents.
Quilting with children
Quilt with children. You are sure to have a great time and your child will love making homemade treasures.
© 2012 Claudia Mitchell