Sewing is, in a way, much like engineering. The seamstress is building something. She must plan ahead, visualize the finished project, problem-solve and understand how each and every step creates the foundation for the next.
Fine motor skills involved in sewing are necessary, but the mental exercises that the artist experiences also serve a very important purpose. A great deal of planning and forethought bring about the finished product, and as patience and persistence result in a rewarding process and enjoyable progress.
The artist shown here constructs her creation by drawing an idea, cutting out the pattern, tracing it onto fabric, and designing exterior elements. She is inspired by an image in a book, but modified it according to her personal preference.
Moving on, she sews the pieces together so that they are secure. Sometimes encountering a knot in the thread or a faulty stitch, the artist must stop and solve the problem at hand. Taking the time to remedy these issues results in a stronger end product, and stronger sense of ability during the process.
Sharing the progress with her peers, the artist receives feedback about the steps that she is taking. Her patience is paying off and she reports feeling pleased with how the pieces are coming together. Balancing her sense of achievement with others' suggestions, she can determine what she needs to work on next.
Returning the next day, the artist is determined to finish her work. She remains focused, as she pins her fabrics together securely. Becoming organized in this way took practice, and will allow the artist to work more efficiently the next time she begins a sewing project.
Completing the construction process, the artist sews the body of her creation together. She has come a long way since just learning to tie a knot and thread a needle. Her patience has paid off and she has learned much from the process. The foundation for learning has been established and each sewing experience will add another layer to that foundation.
As the artist adds the final touches and fills her creation with stuffing, she sees the steps that she has taken come full circle. Her planning, visualizing, and continuous problem-solving has resulted in a beautiful piece of art to have and to hold... and to show off! Because fabrics and threads are very forgiving, sewing is a wonderful activity for artists of all ages. Mistakes can be made, as patience develops and progress takes place.
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