6 Easy Sewing Projects To Have Your Child Try

Sewing is a life skill that's extremely helpful to have. Because of this, it's a great activity to work on with your children. As long as your kid is responsible enough to handle a needle, you can begin showing the little one how to start sewing. If you're looking for things to try, here are six easy sewing projects to have your child try.

1. Teddy Bears

Teddy bears are a classic staple of childhood, so having your kid make one is pretty fitting. Since this is an early sewing project, choose a more amorphous pattern that'll be easy to design. For the bear, you'll want to buy something soft like fleece fabric. Look for multiple fabric colors so you guys can add a tummy or a nose. Get some cotton to stuff the bear with as well. Trace the pattern, cut out the fabric and work on stitching the two pieces together. Be sure to leave it a bit open so the bear can be stuffed!

2. Doll Clothes

If your child has a doll, this project will probably be a home run. Not only are doll clothes small and relatively simple, but your kid can have more tiny outfits afterward. You may want to start with easier items. A skirt is usually a good bet. Since doll clothes are so small, you can probably just use scrap fabrics if you have any. Be sure to take the measurements of the doll beforehand, especially if it isn't from a highly popular brand. In order to be sure that the clothes will fit, you may also want to get elastic.

3. Scrunchies

Scrunchies are a great project to try for any long-haired child, especially ones whose hair can't be contained! All you need are some long strips of fabric and elastic. If you want a scrunchie that will really stay in, look into getting satin. Essentially, your kid will make a long tube out of two pieces of fabric, thread elastic through the tube and sew the ends together. While it's pretty simple, the elastic can be difficult to manage. Remember to stay calm and encouraging if your child gets frustrated.

4. Drawstring Bags

Kids tend to need a lot of stuff, so having another bag around can't hurt. Drawstring bags involve a bit more fabric and sewing than the previous projects, so this is a great opportunity to start learning about sewing machines. Give your kid some scrap fabric and have the young one practice for awhile. Be sure that you're watching during this entire process. You could also let your child try ironing the fabric, particularly if you have a smaller iron for crafts. Since drawstring bags can be a bit complicated to make, keep to the pattern you choose. 

5. Blocks/Balls

If your little one has an even littler family member, this is a great project to try!  Blocks and balls can be made very easily by sewing together various fabrics. Be sure that you sew inside out so the seams won't show. The most essential part of this process is the measurements. You'll want to be sure that each shape (unless specifically stated otherwise) is about the same size. Similar to the teddy bear, you'll also need to leave room for stuffing. If you're making a block, it might hold better if you cut cubes from a piece of foam.

6. Bookmarks

This project is excellent for any kid that's starting sewing and loves to read. Bookmarks have straightforward shapes and are relatively easy to handle, especially if you're making a basic one. Therefore, this project is perfect for kids that are just starting out. If your child is a bit more advanced, you could create a circular bookmark that goes around a book. You can also take this opportunity to try more complicated stitches for decoration!

Sewing with your child can be immensely fun! Try starting with hand sewing and gradually move to a machine. If you stick with it, your child may be creating clothes in no time!