Sew What’s Up Presents
The Sew What’s New Archive
This archived content is from Mary Wilkins’ sewing and
quilting message board “Sew What’s New,” which was
retired in August 2007. It is being provided by
“Sew What’s Up,”
which serves as the new home for many members of “Sew What’s New.”
From: MaryW
Date: 07-12-2006, 02:07 PM (1 of 51)
|
After more than a few conversations with friends, it has been brought up that sewing is going into a decline. Many women no longer sew clothing for themselves. Why? My instant response was that a lot of women are out of shape, therefore hard to fit. Who wants to spend hours making muslins and measuring and redrawing pattern pieces. Another point was made that the internet has made us lazy. We talk sewing but never actually make anything. Also, with so much available on the internet for free, people are not attending classes, retreats and lessons like they used to. Is the sewing world we all know and love going down the toilet? Where has all the enthusiasm gone? MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542 
|
From: Sherri
Date: 07-12-2006, 02:21 PM (2 of 51)
|
I find that people say this all the time. Sewing interest is declining. I don't know if it is but I think it definitely changing in what we sew. I think a lot of people sew more home dec or quiltied sort of things rather then clothes. Accessories are popular to. Sher My website
|
User: Sherri
Member since: 02-07-2001 Total posts: 357 |
From: MaryW
Date: 07-12-2006, 02:24 PM (3 of 51)
|
Accessories are very popular. I think the fitting has a lot of people put off.
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
|
From: Sherri
Date: 07-12-2006, 02:27 PM (4 of 51)
|
I think the fitting has a lot of people put off I agree we really have a quick and easy culture. If we can't do it easily we don't want to do it at all. Instant results!! My website
|
User: Sherri
Member since: 02-07-2001 Total posts: 357 |
From: paroper
Date: 07-12-2006, 02:45 PM (5 of 51)
|
Not only has the cost of sewing gone way up (just look at the prices on the patterns, fabrics, accessories), but many of us are working. Sewing was a necessary part of the household when many women stayed home and it was cheaper. Now you have to weight the expenses/time against Johnnies ballgame, Susie's ballet lessons, Sally's basketball practice, and work, (not to even mention cooking....which is also becoming a dying art.)
pam
Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch) |
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004 Total posts: 3775 |
From: MaryW
Date: 07-12-2006, 02:49 PM (6 of 51)
|
Exactly! I have to turn off the computer and concentrate on supper just to get a decent meal on the table anymore. I also find once I get in the kitchen I really enjoy myself and do little extra things.
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
|
From: DorothyL
Date: 07-12-2006, 02:51 PM (7 of 51)
|
I think a lot of it has to do with what is popular. There will always be people that enjoy creating with textiles. And there will always be people a little obsessed with it (you know who you are!) but the most popular style or medium changes. One decade everyone does needlepoint and cross stitch. A few years later they knit or crochet. Quilting is still a big one and home dec is really big right now. Sewing is just another one of the needle arts, really, and garment sewing isn't real big right now. Neither is tatting or needlepoint. But there are plenty of people doing those things and each one will become the big thing again, sooner or later. Sewing is never going to die because there is something in human nature that makes us want to adorn ourselves (not to mention keep warm and modest) and there is something in human nature that makes us want to create. There will always be people that would rather spend hours making the perfect garment than run to WalMart for a cheap piece of junk like everyone else is wearing. And there will always be people who would rather be doing something else. They don't want to sew or knit or quilt. There were times when they had to -- at least the women did. Now they can just run to WalMart and get something cheap and fast so they have time for whatever it is they love to do. Just because everyone doesn't sew out of necessity doesn't mean many people won't do it for pleasure. To tell you the truth, I think the Internet has done wonders for the needle arts. Sewing and other forms of needlecraft tend to be solitary pursuits and places like this site give us a chance to discuss sewing and show off a little of our work. We inspire each other and new people. I just don't believe it is dying -- always changing, yes but dying, no. Dorothy |
User: DorothyL
Member since: 12-09-2002 Total posts: 3883 |
From: pucktricks
Date: 07-12-2006, 03:13 PM (8 of 51)
|
I think it's definetely changing, but take for instance the website: crafster.org. That's made up of mostly younger people sewing, and they do an awesome amount of work. Ticia |
User: pucktricks
Member since: 03-31-2004 Total posts: 570 
|
From: Debby215
Date: 07-12-2006, 03:25 PM (9 of 51)
I will admit that I don't enjoy sewing for myself as I have gained weight and it is awfully hard to fit myself. I tried last year to make myself a pair of capris out of some old stash fabric, they nowhere near fit, so that was it for me. I STILL Love to sew, but mostly for my grandkids and especially at Christmas, my famous flannel pj's for just about everyone and their mothers..LOL Of course I LOVE to quilt and do find I enjoy making things like placemats and potholders and other things like that...Just my 2 cents 
Debby
So much fabric....... So little time!! |
User: Debby215
Member since: 11-14-2001 Total posts: 611 
|
From: AndreaSews
Date: 07-12-2006, 03:55 PM (10 of 51)
|
Well, I'm recharged, having gone to my sewing guild meeting last night. I was thinking, as I headed for the door last night, about how nice it was to see a variety of ages represented in the group as it continually evolves, and how many very different flavors of creation we all keep working on. We're planning on participating in a fashion show this fall with some of our garments. One woman just came back from a week-long sewing course in Ohio. Someone else was working on a beading technique that mimics painting. And here on SWN I see posts all the time with introductions like, "hi, I'm new to sewing." Since sewing is no longer a foundation skill of homemaking, it is less often passed down from mother to daughter, but there are so many people picking up and finding ways to learn at their own pace. These are learners who have chosen their paths, rather than inherited them. It's a whole industry of magazines, books, videos, classes and conferences. Changing, yes, but it'll never go away.
Andrea
|
User: AndreaSews
Member since: 02-18-2005 Total posts: 1007 
|
From: Patty22
Date: 07-12-2006, 04:14 PM (11 of 51)
|
Mary, Sounds like this is a trick question or else you are preaching to the congregation. Ditto to Dot (to what Dorothy said.) Sorry, I'm in a hurry as I worked at DH's office all day and I want to get to my sewing room..... 
Patty
|
User: Patty22
Member since: 03-29-2006 Total posts: 1194 |
From: Sparky
Date: 07-12-2006, 04:59 PM (12 of 51)
One thing that discourages me is that I usually find that I can buy clothes cheaper than I can make them. 
Sparky
|
User: Sparky
Member since: 03-13-2005 Total posts: 94 |
From: paroper
Date: 07-12-2006, 05:02 PM (13 of 51)
|
The majority of people I sewed for had unique fitting problems that "regular" clothing could not address. I often had a lot of bridal work where the bride either could not find the colors they wanted or they had a wide range of sizes in the bridesmaids. Most of the things that I made seemd to be cheaper for the customer to buy with the MAJOR exception of brides' maids dresses...pricing for those in the stores is way out of line.
pam
Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch) |
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004 Total posts: 3775 |
From: Magot
Date: 07-12-2006, 05:15 PM (14 of 51)
|
I agree with Dorothy - what goes around - comes around. There will be a return to garment sewing in years to come - I was shocked to discover recently that I am one of the few women of my generation who knit - yet the generation below is undergoing a knitting revival (Big needles and chunky/eyelash wool admitedly, but it is a start) For myself the ability to buy fabric is a big disincentive to make clothing - I have some t shirt patterns I know will suit me - but cannot buy jersey. It is only economically viable to make specialty clothing - prom dresses, wedding gowns, suits and so on as RTW from sweatshops is so cheap... I will always follow a craft of some kind - I used to do a lot of hand embriodery and make lace but don't feel like it now - things do go in and out of fashion. There is a part of me that has a need to create - I like to thnk that is one of the bits that is made in the image of God - he liked messing about with stuff to see what he could come up with too. (Ever looked closely at an Okapi? I think he was running out of ideas) love and kisses, Jan
Guts-R-Us Cells a Speciality DNA to order. |
User: Magot
Member since: 12-22-2002 Total posts: 3626 
|
From: Mom of Six
Date: 07-12-2006, 05:16 PM (15 of 51)
|
I think part of the reason for the decline is it is not offered in school anymore. They are also eliminating woodshop. I think hand crafted arts are going to have to be passed down through the generations. If you don't want it to die teach a teenager. That is what I have been doing & my DD has built up quite a stash of her own now. Barb Barb
Happiness is having time to sew!! |
User: Mom of Six
Member since: 11-03-2001 Total posts: 1115 
|
From: DorothyL
Date: 07-12-2006, 05:19 PM (16 of 51)
|
RTW from sweatshops is so cheap The only one chained to a sewing machine to make my clothes is me. Dorothy |
User: DorothyL
Member since: 12-09-2002 Total posts: 3883 |
From: vickki
Date: 07-12-2006, 06:14 PM (17 of 51)
| 6 weeks ago I signed up for a sewing class.10 in each class the lady had to have 4 different classes because there was so much interest...The majority was people who had never sewn before....I think there will always be sewers of some kind.I have signed up for the next 4 classes...Monday nights I go to crafts(mostly knit),Tues mornings I go to quilting,Wed mornings I go to painting class,Thurs evening I go to weight watchers.Now if I could only fill the remaining mornings and evenings.I just love crafts and people... |
User: vickki
Member since: 08-21-2005 Total posts: 374 |
From: MartySews
Date: 07-12-2006, 07:10 PM (18 of 51)
|
To me, sewing is not a lost art. It's just not emphasized enough. I sew my clothing because I enjoy it and I get a better fit than something that is RTW. I don't particularly like sewing craft or home dec items. Each of us have our own passion and express ourselves creatively thru it. Besides sewing, I love painting and photography. Unfortunately, in my community, there are not classes offered in these subjects. The different sewing guilds in my community do not unite or work well together. This is just a sad fact of life. However, that does not stop me from supporting the dealers and local fabric stores. I just have to carefully pick and choose what I do. Happy Stitching! Marty 
It takes one moment to change a life.
|
User: MartySews
Member since: 02-23-2003 Total posts: 504 
|
From: SandyGirl
Date: 07-12-2006, 08:35 PM (19 of 51)
|
Or if the school offers sewing...it is for a half semester...duh! My 14 year old neice "took" sewing and the teacher jumped in with her serger just to move the project along for her... 4 week class in total. GIVE ME A BREAK!! What is that? She did not learn squat! Serger???? What happened to teaching a student on a regular machine? I still have not used a serger..don't even own one yet....embroidery'/sewing machine? YES!! I quit sewing garments for fit reasons, cost, lousy grade of retail fabric, etc. I quilt and craft, happily thanks! sandy |
User: SandyGirl
Member since: 09-16-2005 Total posts: 97 |
From: bluebirdie
Date: 07-12-2006, 09:18 PM (20 of 51)
|
During the past decades, I've been trying to pick up sewing. But none of my acquantainces sew. They're suckers for name brand clothings regardless of how unflaterring the style or fitting is for them. They sneer at me for trying sewing as a hobby. It takes a strong person to own a hobby no one nearby approves. But for me, sewing is not only to produce fun work, it is also a hobby to take the mind off our daily routine either of work or life. I agree with Dorothy that internet has done wonders for needle art. Not until I started visiting all these wondering online sewing forums did I realize there're sewers out there in the real world. I saw a lot of creative work on crafters forums from youngsters and am sure sewing will not die, as long as people can afford the textiles and notions. - Robin
|
User: bluebirdie
Member since: 03-12-2006 Total posts: 139 |
From: sable
Date: 07-13-2006, 02:58 AM (21 of 51)
|
I was taught sewing by my Mum, I am planning on teaching my 2 sons when they're old enough (2yrs & 3yrs so a little young yet). My SIL is keen on learning now, she inherited most of my office wardrobe after getting a lecturing position at our local University (College). She'd expressed some interest previously, but after seeing what I'd managed to make (suits galore!) she's really keen now! My other SIL started out learning how to operate the sewing machine from my DH's brother and has taken up quilting; she's now starting garment sewing for her sons. There's also tonnes of people here in NZ starting sewing in order to make nappies (diapers) for their babies! Sewing is definitely not dying here 
|
User: sable
Member since: 01-10-2005 Total posts: 76
|
From: SandyGirl
Date: 07-13-2006, 07:21 AM (22 of 51)
|
Those people who sneer probably don't have any hobbies and are bored to death! My friends oooh and aaaah over what I make. I know that is because they never learned or took the time to do so. A couple of them do know how but with taking care of kids, etc. just have not had the time to get back into it...they will. I too have found a new world of seamstresses and quilters "online" and my 3 quilt guilds are well attended. Would like to see more under 35'ers in them tho. Again, shame on the schools for not valuing sewing and shop classes, etc. sand |
User: SandyGirl
Member since: 09-16-2005 Total posts: 97 |
From: LauraM62
Date: 07-13-2006, 09:19 AM (23 of 51)
|
I'm not sure if it is a true decline from recent years - maybe if you are measuring from the era where most women didn't work then you might be. But I think since at least the 70's as women were large in the workforce, the amount of time to sew was reduced so a decline happened. Face it we are not the women of the 50's or 60's nor the families - we are always busy, kids with activities, always on the run, so some things are lost with this busy lifesytles. Although I mandate dinner at the table with the entire family here, always have except when jobs have come into play - I really try to work around activities to get that sit down family time every night. On the school side I know our middle school has dropped sewing completely from the classes - actually all home ec type classes. But it is still at the high school, just as an elective class, semester long. They changed it though to Fashion Design. My dd loved it last year, it was more creative then just sewing, they actually talked about the 'What Not To Wear', body styles, then when sewing they worked on creativity to designs - emblishing their purses, pillowcases, & pjs! It made sewing fun for her - she actually came home and made Christmas presents this year, pillowcases, that she added trims, embroidery, etc to. We spent time coordinating fabric too! She seemed to enjoy the design process, & once they put that into the sewing process it has sparked her. My oldest college dd, although never had an interest before, last year took up an interest too! But again it came from design - wanting a design of a formal attaired skirt that she couldn't find at a store. Now she wants her own machine at college. My youngest is will be 7 in a few weeks, I have already promised to start teaching her soon. Personally I love the internet for my sewing. It actually helped me allot. In the late 80's - early 90's, I lived in rural Kansas, I couldn't find anyone else that garment sewed. I didn't know where to look for fitting issues, how to adjust patterns for fit, or learn more about the fitting issues. I gave up. I went to sewing for my skinny kids, and took up some quilting. Although the quilting was slow going for me because it just wasn't my passion. Along comes the internet - and I think DH feels he is lost in a sewing workshop! My answers are here! I still am far away from many classes, I don't have a guild nearby (except quilters), so I don't get face to face contact with other garment sewers (although I would love to!) but I do get my computer time! It also gives me fabric & supplies I could never get around here. So is sewing declining? I don't really think so, I think it is just cycling as many things do. I am surprised at how many teens are sewing - my 16 year old dd has allot of friends who sew - I talk more to them about garment sewing then anyone else around here  Hopefully we'll see more as they mature a little more!
LauraM
SW Indiana If everyone cared and nobody cried; If everyone loved and nobody lied; If everyone shared and swallowed their pride; Then we'd see the day when nobody died --'If Everyone Cared' by Nickelback |
User: LauraM62
Member since: 08-10-2003 Total posts: 246 
|
From: MrsSnuggly
Date: 07-13-2006, 09:47 AM (24 of 51)
|
Well, I don't know about on the decline as much as other things but the same people are sewing. SAHMs are big sewers, but then again that is on the decline as people find it harder to live on one income. Personally, I find people in general are becoming less and less interested in anything that takes time. My mother recently read an article that camping is ont he decline because people don't like how slow it is. They'd rather go on a vacation that involves a cruise or all inclusive with everything done for them - and where if someone needs to get intouch they can (meaning they never really went on vacation....) And lets be honest - a quilt that is good takes time, let alone well done clothes. B~ |
User: MrsSnuggly
Member since: 05-21-2006 Total posts: 104 |
From: MrsSnuggly
Date: 07-13-2006, 09:54 AM (25 of 51)
|
One other thing - the schools are not just dropping classes that help with LIFE (Home ec style-I mean they even taught the boys how to do dishes when I had that) but in general ART and MUSIC. Sewing falls into the craft of these as well and so many schools don't even have those these days. I get very upset about it because when it comes down to it - we are the ones that choose what our kids get in school (that's why all those poltitcians want you to listen to them talk education) and I have no idea when our society became so focused on math and science and not at all interested in art and music. Sure seems to me that people are still interested, but maybe not interested enough to fight about it. I sure learned alot in the sewing classes taught when I was younger. B~ |
User: MrsSnuggly
Member since: 05-21-2006 Total posts: 104 |
From: esrun3
Date: 07-13-2006, 10:01 AM (26 of 51)
Our schools dropped home ec & shop before my kids were even at that point...and my oldest is 30. My 2 boys had shop as an elective in 8th grade but home ec was nowhere to be found. All 3 of my children can sew...they don't as a rule but I find it funny when my boys are sewing on a machine making costumes and curtains for their kids. Their wives can't even sew on a button by hand much less use a machine! LOL My daughter can sew but prefers to have her mom do it. at least I'm good for something somedays, huh?  I think some of it is that commercial clothing has gotten cheaper over the years and, let's face it, not only is sewing time consuming but costly as well. yes, some things you can whip up fairly cheaply but if you are making a "good" outfit (other than quick shorts and tops) it costs more than ready to wear a lot of the time. Especially if you figure in your time on it. It's amazing to me that I work in a large group of people, probably 150-200, and very few of us sew and those that quilt are even rarer here. And all but about 5 are women! Me, I sew because it relaxes me....but then again, I still like to camp too! I appreciate the slow pace of a leisurely vacation, not always having to go go go. I wish the schools would bring back home ec & shop-I think the kids need it for survival if nothing else, and who knows, they may actually find a hobby they enjoy! Lyn
|
User: esrun3
Member since: 12-02-2004 Total posts: 2345 |
From: LauraM62
Date: 07-13-2006, 10:07 AM (27 of 51)
I can see camping on decline if both parents are working, as when we did, I sure didn't want to go camping. My idea of a vacation wasn't cooking, doing dishes, etc which was included in camping - you bet I wanted it done for me because it was suppose to be a vacation for me too Now that I don't work camping is fine! I think in part our society as become a want it now society, patience is learned, but everyone is in such a hurry how can you teach kids patience  many things within schools are changing. Last year I seen several states even charging for sports activities since they didn't have the funds, $300 to play football ! They say all the cut backs have to do the the No Child Left Behind Act - the testing is Science, Math, English - not art, music, life skills - so they teach what the federal government is funding - although with the lawsuits I'm seeing the federal government is not funding the act the way it is suppose to. Okay I know nobody but the US members care about all this little rant (sorry!).
LauraM
SW Indiana If everyone cared and nobody cried; If everyone loved and nobody lied; If everyone shared and swallowed their pride; Then we'd see the day when nobody died --'If Everyone Cared' by Nickelback |
User: LauraM62
Member since: 08-10-2003 Total posts: 246
|
From: my2girlies
Date: 07-13-2006, 10:27 AM (28 of 51)
| I think sewing hopefully will be making a comeback. I am basically teaching myself to sew as I go and have been having a blast. I also have been amazed at how many of my friends sew, too. My DDs are getting interested as I am. I "taught" them shirring as I learned it and both have made swim suit covers. My youngest DD took sewing in middle school last semester and loved it and we both learned a few things. She made a pillow, a Quillow, and placemats with hand sewn accents. Then at home she made pillow cases for the members of her cheer squad for camp. The girls flipped out!! Now when they come over half the time they are in the pool and half the time they want to create something. But unfortunately none of us enjoy true garment sewing yet. Both of mine love to make blankets, bibs, etc. for the soon to be arriving new grandson. And they like to embellish rtw clothes. 2 of my youngest dd's friends got sewing machines for Christmas. So maybe this generation (today's tweenies) will keep the sewing bug alive. The high school they will attend offers 4 years of clothing design as an elective and I have seen some of the amazing items that come from those classes. Truly amazing. Last year the third and fourth year students designed and made the dance costumes for the modern dance classes. Both the middle school and HS here are large so maybe that is why we still have so many art related classes. Also - it was passed here that the instructors for electives do not have to be teachers with an education degree. The sewing textile teacher is from Hancock's, dance teachers are from local dance studios, etc. Therefore they are not full time and do not have to be paid the same as regular teachers. I am so sorry to hear that so many other schools do not offer such programs. So lets not lose hope, sewing will be around for a while. We must just pass it onto our children and grandchildren and their friends. |
User: my2girlies
Member since: 03-25-2005 Total posts: 154 |
From: paroper
Date: 07-13-2006, 10:38 AM (29 of 51)
|
When I was in school Home Ec was manditory not for one year but for the entire high school career. We didn't just learn to sew but we started at the beginning and by the time we finished we were able to read house plans, design our own house, including kitchen plans (three of which I have done, along with several add on rooms), choose color schemes, rate carpets and floorings, choose and rate cookware, silverware, pottery, glassware and china, cook and plan any type of meal or food, serve and hostess a party including a theme party, decorate for a party, take care of bedridden patients, perform first aid, give CPR, take care of children, recognize developmental problems in children, sew...all the way to tailoring, make intellegent decisions about family planning, plan a style show, do public speaking, not to mention being taught proper ettiquite and decorum in public situations, and a host of other things including filling out a job application, dressing for a job, dressing for an interview, making a resume, writing a letter of introduction. In college we were also taught to teach crafts like knitting and crochet to a group (something I don't think my HS home ec teach was "in" to.) I don't care about what the government thinks about education. Home Ec did more for our girls than just about anything. It taught them how to survive in the home, work and in public. We complain because people come in to apply for jobs dressed like COWS. Who taught them how to behave and dress in an interview?
pam
Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch) |
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004 Total posts: 3775 |
From: paroper
Date: 07-13-2006, 10:43 AM (30 of 51)
|
My children attended the same school I did 36 years ago. (Graduated this year). Out of 125 students in band 3 had a parent that could sew well. 2 more had parents who had basic sewing skills. For a town that less then 35 years ago REQUIRED home ec...that's pretty amazing.
pam
Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch) |
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004 Total posts: 3775 |
From: MariLynntex
Date: 07-13-2006, 10:51 AM (31 of 51)
|
Very few of my friends sew any more, if they ever did. My 3 daughters never sew. One of them used to and was a very good seamstress, but she has 2 small boys now and works full time as well. The other 2 never learned. One of them now does a little occasional mending, but she and the working sister have a handmade jewelry business and do beautiful silver and ceramic work. But they never wear anything but jeans and t-shirts, which I am so sick of seeing that I have started wearing ankle-length skirts, and NO T-shirts ever! They admit I look fashionable and they don't, but all I see nowadays, even in restaurants, seems to be jeans and T-shirts--very tacky jeans, torn and patched, or cut-offs. Now at church, I see a lot of skirts, even on young women and it is a welcome change. I gave my cowboy boots to my D-in-law after I recovered enough from an accident to use a cane--the boots were too hard to get on and off with my damaged left wrist and pinned-together ankles! I made one of my 8-yo grandsons a Davy Crockett costume which was much better looking than a couple of bought ones that showed up in their school Texas history pageant. The others looked--and were--very cheaply made. My 16th grandchild is close to three years and very fond of clothes, so maybe there is hope! MariLynntex |
User: MariLynntex
Member since: 01-05-2006 Total posts: 107 |
From: MissTaraTara
Date: 07-13-2006, 11:53 AM (32 of 51)
My mother teaches science at the middle school level. She is very disappointed at the lack of craft electives offered to the students at her school today. There once was home-ec, sewing was offered as a separate class, and there was woodshop and crafts (ceramic, paper mache, painting etc.). When "they" began eliminating these courses "they" stated it was because we are moving into a more technological age, and these craftsy courses are no longer relevant. My mother says all the time that they need to bring these classes back because there are children who are gifted and creative and they need an outlet to express themselves at school. Not all children will excell academically. She says "That's what's wrong with society, kids can't do anything. They want everything done for them. It must be quick and it must be now or it's boring. How do you compete with Xboxes, PSPs, the internet, etc " (no offense intended, just a blanket statement I hear from her all the time) She even felt really sad  (welling up with tears like she owned the company) while she was telling me that Legos is going to go bankrupt. Yes, my son loved legos and could play with them all day. He has outgrown them but I have been instructed that they are NOT TO BE GIVEN AWAY! Legos says that they cannot draw the interest of the children anymore.I found sewing on my own many moons ago and I just love it. Yes, unless you are purchasing high fashion, it is cheaper to purchase ready to wear. I sew for my daughter for fit and because I have complete control over short/skirt lengths, tightness of pants, and where I think waistbands should be (she'll be 13 in October). I also just love the process of putting something together and then I really get my jollies when I see the finished item. I am confident that sewing will always be around. I think some people are turned off to sewing because no matter what they do, they feel their garments etc have all the characteristics of being homemade  . I say this because I was following a thread about this exact subject on PatternReview.
|
User: MissTaraTara
Member since: 01-24-2006 Total posts: 227 |
From: Magot
Date: 07-13-2006, 12:21 PM (33 of 51)
|
At our school we offer (under the heading of design technology)Resistant material, Graphics, Food and Textiles to all years and they rotate through them in sequence. In the UK when they come to do GCSE's they can choose to major in one of these areas for their DT exam. They have to research, design and create the item chosen - resistant materials would equate to "shop", Graphics more technical drawing and design, food tech is about reasearching, designing and marketing a food product( and inventing the receipe as well eg a cook chill item for a vegetarian) and textiles is to design and make a garment (a young friend of mine made her prom dress). We are only a middle school (age 9-13) but to see our stuff look here http://www.greneway.herts.sch.uk/dt/index.htm Both boys and girls love the textiles that we offer. Some of Yr 7's cushions are amazing. love and kisses, Jan
Guts-R-Us Cells a Speciality DNA to order. |
User: Magot
Member since: 12-22-2002 Total posts: 3626
|
From: weezyrider
Date: 07-13-2006, 01:11 PM (34 of 51)
|
I hated home Ec in school. My mother did things better, didn't have to make crap you wouldn't eat, or sew stuff you would never wear! We made aprons which no one ever wore! Plus T-shirts and blue jeans are egalitarian. I sew because I'm of the opinion that anyone who wants to wear fancy fitted clothes is nuts! I like sloppy oversized shirts as they are more comfortable, plus having more design area for embroidery. I used to ruin clothes and hose playing softball at lunch hour. Weezy |
User: weezyrider
Member since: 08-19-2003 Total posts: 218 
|
From: Mom of Six
Date: 07-13-2006, 04:22 PM (35 of 51)
|
Michigan is talking about making 1 credit of art a requirement for Graduation. This can be Drama, music (choral or band), or a regular art class. I think this would be great if kids had a real choice. right now they have to fit gym, foriegn language, & computers into their schedule as mandatory electives. My Dd is going into 10th grade & because she chose the honors/pre IB path she got a letter last week with homework due the first day of school. She has to read 3 books off a prescribed list & write 5 journal entries for each. She reads all of the time & is reading things she wouldn't otherwise read but I think this will turn some kids off. This is supposed to be their time to be kids & teens have so many pressures already. I try to encourage my kids to take at least 1 fun class each semester just so they don't burn out. Lucky for her she enjoys learning. The only way kids get any life skills classes is if they are special ed or teen parents. They can take a computer graphics or auto mechanics course if they take 1/2 away from the regular high school to go to the career center.
Barb
Happiness is having time to sew!! |
User: Mom of Six
Member since: 11-03-2001 Total posts: 1115
|
From: LeapFrog Libby
Date: 07-13-2006, 06:16 PM (36 of 51)
|
My GS in a middle school Art Class, had a choice of several items for a project, and chose weaving because he had heard me say that I had always wanted to do that.. He made the required length of fabric, got an A on it, and is now working on a piece at home this summer to be a banner 6 ft. long for his room.. I haven't seen it yet, but I am so proud of him.. He draws and paints also, and made a throw pillow in school to learn how to sew.. He called me for fabric for that pillow and was the hit of the class because I had a piece to make a pillow from Carolina Panthers Fabric that I had picked up from the remnant bin at Wally World for $ !.00... Had 3 squares on it..What a bargain./.
Sew With Love
Libby |
User: LeapFrog Libby
Member since: 05-01-2002 Total posts: 2022 
|
From: mamagoose
Date: 07-13-2006, 07:03 PM (37 of 51)
| I would liked to be informed of the seminars available. I am on at least 3 notions catalog mailing lists, receive three sewing magazines and never get any info on any clinics/seminars. I attended a great one a few years ago I found out about through the 4-H program when I was helping at the county level. Maybe I should check out the state extension website. The internet has been a great boon to my quality fabric stash and I would never be caught dead wearing an outfit someone else could possibly be wearing! Shoes, ok, clothes, no way! This obsession started very young. I was paranoid as a teenager to even wear the same combination outfit more than once a month, so I sewed a lot! When I busy with my younguns, I discovered thrift shops and didn't get to sew near as much as I can now. I do buy my jeans, but they are of the western influence and can't be purchased locally, so rarely a look-a-like there. I have done my part in passing on my knowledge and love of sewing to 2 girls in 4-H who have stuck with it for a few years. I have helped others along the way who lost interest, though. I did teach our 2 sons to use the sewing machine when they were very young (and they still know how and has come in handy), and I sure hope to have at least one granddaughter I can teach someday! I certainly have thought about teaching for $ as many friends/relatives have asked for me to help them, but it takes a lot of time to do so and I'm not getting anything in return otherwise. I spend as much as 40 hours per 4-H kid individually a year as it is. I usually have them at my house and granted I can get a few dishes washed, etc., but not much during those sessions. I think that once someone realizes how much time is involved they often opt out of the process. I sew because I love to! |
User: mamagoose
Member since: 01-26-2002 Total posts: 168 |
From: mamagoose
Date: 07-13-2006, 07:08 PM (38 of 51)
| Sewing for myself has been a good incentive to remain the same size. |
User: mamagoose
Member since: 01-26-2002 Total posts: 168 |
From: MJADAA
Date: 07-13-2006, 07:09 PM (39 of 51)
| I agree sewing etc seem to be the first things cut in schools,i was the last student to take "A"level sewing in my English school and thats with it being more popular in England,here in Canada most sewers i know do quilting not dressmaking .We have to teach our kids!!iI'm always quick to encourage kids that show interest in arts and crafts,i teach some of my day care kids cross stitch and i make outfits for them as christmas gifts. |
User: MJADAA
Member since: 03-09-2006 Total posts: 22 |
From: MrsSnuggly
Date: 07-13-2006, 07:32 PM (40 of 51)
|
I agree with Pam. I know so many women (and quite a few young men) that have no idea how to handle normal "housy" things. I even had to teach my BIL how to correctly write a check!!! These used to be important things to know - how to run a house efficiently and dress for business......let alone dress so your underwear aren't hanging out of your jeans. Oh and Leapfrog Libby - I've heard NC schools have been some of the best at keeping arts in their school systems (this from CA where all my teaching friends are moving to NC because they can't get jobs.) B~ |
User: MrsSnuggly
Member since: 05-21-2006 Total posts: 104 |
From: LeapFrog Libby
Date: 07-13-2006, 07:56 PM (41 of 51)
|
Overall , that is true.. But, in Charlotte, here, it is sort of a different story.. We were under court ordered forced busing to integrate our schools for so long that we lost a lot of elective courses to pay for the extra busing... Now, that is finally over, and the better electives are coming back even here in our town.. My sons missed out on a lot that we had back in my day...The forced busing started in 1969 or 1970 and only ended a couple of years ago..Now they have a "choice" plan that is ridiculous... Still way too much busing... Our neighborhoods now are totally integrated for the most part, and we could return to totally neighborhood schools except for the rich , ritzy, part of town.. (I mean the big bucks) My grands live in a neighboring county, better school systems altogether..
Sew With Love
Libby |
User: LeapFrog Libby
Member since: 05-01-2002 Total posts: 2022
|
From: toadusew
Date: 07-14-2006, 08:43 AM (42 of 51)
I agree with the comments that so many people these days are into instant gratification, and it is easier to grab something off of a rack at a store than it is to invest the time and patience sewing a garment/project. When we lived in Dallas, I found very few people who sewed because the prices for RTW were fairly inexpensive. No sewing or true home ec classes were taught in the schools in my area. Here in northern Virginia, I am finding more women who sew--or at least they know how to sew and have a sewing machine. Many of them don't sew as much as I do (I'd almost rather sew than eat!  ), but at least they have the skill/knowledge. I don't have any kids in school, but I've been told that the local high school does offer Fashion Design. I don't know if that will include sewing or not, though. I am teaching a 15 year old neighbor girl how to sew this summer. She is very interested and even wanted to know if she might have enough fabric left to make some type of purse. Maybe we are seeing this age group return to an interest in sewing and that will keep the art alive. I also think it is a shame that many of the life skills that were taught in schools in days gone by are no longer taught. It's nice to have al that "book learning" and that is important, but I think it is also important to be able to know how to plan a meal, sew on a button, budget for a household, etc. |
User: toadusew
Member since: 01-08-2005 Total posts: 369 |
From: Mom of Six
Date: 07-14-2006, 09:06 AM (43 of 51)
|
Even in Girl Scouts there are no badges that you can earn just for fun. 1 requirement of each badge is to look into careers that would pertain to the badge. My troop never finished a badge the last yr. I was a leader because the girls wnted to do crafts & fun things. The rest was more like homework & they get enough of that from school. When my older girls were scouts we had a badge That they each earned by making an outfit & then having a fashion show. Most of them did the sewing themselves one Mom was such a perfectionist she worked on her Dd while she was at school. I helped 3 of the girls whose mothers didn't sew. I wish they had something like that now but it has been discontinued. The clothing repair business should be booming since people aren't being taught the basics like sewing on buttons & hemming pants.
Barb
Happiness is having time to sew!! |
User: Mom of Six
Member since: 11-03-2001 Total posts: 1115
|
From: paroper
Date: 07-14-2006, 09:17 AM (44 of 51)
|
We also see it reflected in the expectations of the people for whom we sew. Many who want to have things sewn for them do not allow time for assembly...they expect it to mysteriously appear. They also do not expect to pay a reasonable price for the items because they are "home made". Home made means that it is free or cheap. (I guess that they are thinking that their Mom is making it for them?) This is refected in crafts, clothing, quilts, embroidery, anything that we do as a cottage industry and selling/making to/for the public...but....put that item in a corner boutique and they'll pay three times the price for it and talk about their bargain!
pam
Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch) |
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004 Total posts: 3775 |
From: Patty22
Date: 07-14-2006, 11:31 AM (45 of 51)
|
Amen Pam!! When women would come to me for doing hemming, repairs, home dec, etc. I usually did it because I knew them or they were friends. One of the strangest sewing requests was from a woman who asked me to make the collars on her husband's dress shirts narrower along with all his ties. Pennies on the dollar is what I got for the amount of time it took - I wonder if her husband would have cut fees for surgery? Since then the majority of my outside sewing for the last 25+ years has been making items for donations and/or raffles for nfp to make money. Donation of your craft/sewing in itself is a lesson because some value the work you spend and others don't. The last wall hanging I had made for a raffle I spent 300 hours in labor, plus all the costs of materials and reproduction of signatures which I consumed. The woman who won the raffle called me because she was so thrilled and it was so kind of her to let me know how much she appreciated my work. The winner is also thinking of the same kind of wallhanging for for her own organization for a raffle. Her call was so appreciated because organizations will always ask for items, but few take the time after their fund raisers to say thank you. I had donated (they called and asked) a folk art baby quilt to a music festival and I realized it was the wrong group I had donated to because getting items such as diamond watches was a bigger draw. I designed and made a doll from a character from a book for the local school to raffle to help pay for the author's visit. I went through lots of red tape with the publishing company to allow me to use the image of the doll because she is trademarked. I finally got the permission and the author signed it. I had to agree never to make the doll again. I could go on and on, but all my sewing has been from a donation standpoint, or else only for family and friends. If I had to make a living off my sewing I would have been dead years ago - guess it must be a dying art for some. I can certainly attest to the fact that the general public is looking for a bargain and rarely wants to pay you what you deserve for an hourly rate. Which reminds me of a woman - I had done her business logo into a quilt that she could use at trade fairs. She was so upset when she saw the final piece (it was gorgeous as I had to special order all the hand dyed fabric to match her letterhead) because the quilting stitches weren't big like the quilts she has seen in the department stores. No, sorry, I refuse to do toe nail catcher quilts. It was too funny........Good thing I can still laugh about all of this....... Patty
|
User: Patty22
Member since: 03-29-2006 Total posts: 1194 |
From: weezyrider
Date: 07-14-2006, 01:00 PM (46 of 51)
|
I agree that manners are fairly atrocious at times - but you can be just as mannerly in rags as in high cost/high fashion, and that should be looked at more than the clothes! I grew up fighting the darn status symbols and will continue to fight. It looks like we are going back that way. I've seen kids that are totally outrageously dressed go out of their way to help an older person, etc. As for household, I usually do my own curtains and stuff. I have one rule - IT NEEDS TO BE ABLE TO GO IN MY WASHING MACHINE!!. Maybe it isn't as fashionable, but it sure is more convenient! Weezy |
User: weezyrider
Member since: 08-19-2003 Total posts: 218
|
From: pucktricks
Date: 07-14-2006, 04:40 PM (47 of 51)
|
I agree everything I make (as long as I"m paying attention to that, admittedly sometimes I don't) has to go in the washing machine. Otherwise it's just going to die a hideous painful death in the washing machine. Ticia |
User: pucktricks
Member since: 03-31-2004 Total posts: 570
|
From: Mom of Six
Date: 07-14-2006, 05:41 PM (48 of 51)
|
That's why I pre wash everything. I was told once that the fabric companies have to mark a certain % of their fabric dry clean. I don't know if it is true or not but I always check the fiber content (I don't buy wool, I break out). Then I wash everthing in warm & dry in the dryer. That way I am safe if one of the kids happens to do the laundry. We aren't dress up people so most everything is cotton/poly blend.
Barb
Happiness is having time to sew!! |
User: Mom of Six
Member since: 11-03-2001 Total posts: 1115
|
From: Bama
Date: 07-15-2006, 01:40 AM (49 of 51)
I try not to buy anything that has to be dry cleaned. Can't stand the chemicals left on it.  It amazes me when friends and family ask me to do something as simple as sewing on a button that has fallen off. I've asked a couple of them, "Didn't you take Home Ec?" One said, "well I don't have a machine." I said "You just need a needle and thread."  I made one of my friends watch me sew on a button AND hem her pants so she couldn't say she didn't know how. This was about the 6th or 7th pair of pants I had to hem for her. Hmmm.... maybe small sewing kits should be on my gift lists next Christmas. I have a couple of friends who know how to sew and say they enjoy it but just don't have time anymore. Me, I HAVE to create something with my hands on a regular basis And guess what Jan???? My neighbor has promised to teach me how to knit!!! (Since I don't have enough hobbies )
|
User: Bama
Member since: 03-21-2000 Total posts: 2116 
|
From: Magot
Date: 07-15-2006, 05:21 AM (50 of 51)
|
Go for it Bama - it is as addictive as hell. What I like about it is I can sit down to watch a film or smething and turn my hands on automatic and after a few weeks - ooh Look ! a jumper/socks/hat/scarves/womb/guts/nautiloid or whatever! My latest project is to make a 2 d model of an animal and a plant cell - I am just in the planning stages...
love and kisses, Jan
Guts-R-Us Cells a Speciality DNA to order. |
User: Magot
Member since: 12-22-2002 Total posts: 3626
|
From: Bama
Date: 07-15-2006, 04:52 PM (51 of 51)
|
I doubt I would ever get that ambitious at it. But I love seeing your projects. I'm thinking scarves and hats. I can crochet a little. Never tried knitting before. My neighbor friend makes baby booties all the time and always has some on hand when someone she knows has a baby. |
User: Bama
Member since: 03-21-2000 Total posts: 2116
|
Visit Sew What’s Up for the latest sewing and quilting tips and discussions.
This page was originally located on Sew What’s New (www.sew-whats-new.com) at http://www.sew-whats-new.com/vb/archive/index.php/t-19610.html
Sew What’s Up is hosted by ZenSoft