A new Sewing Starts station will make its debut at the next Maple Ridge Repair Cafe.
The station, created by Ridge Meadows Recycling Society summer students, will introduce children to sewing.
Children will learn how to thread a needle and sewing safety tips before choosing a craft to work on.
Crafts will include keychain pouches, sock puppets, and toys.
“Everything I know about sewing is self-taught,” said Jasleen Sekhon, community education and special event assistant at Ridge Meadows Recycling Society.
“I learned solely through trial and error and it took me a long time. Sewing Starts is a way to help kids learn the basics like threading a needle or sewing on a button. Getting hands-on experience is vital in building confidence and growing skills, and can launch kids into beginning their own creative projects,” Sekhon added.
The new Sewing Starts station was inspired by the Repair Cafe’s popular Tinkerbell Station, where children are encouraged to safely use tools and take apart old appliances and electronics.
Donations of clean, single socks will be welcomed for the sock toys.
“I am so excited our summer students have taken on this activity,” noted Leanne Koehn, Maple Ridge Repair Cafe founder and community engagement manager at Ridge Meadows Recycling Society.
“Sewing Starts is a great pathway for kids to learn sewing basics and see that small repairs can give clothes a second life. It is also a great introduction to the world of textile arts.”
Sewing Starts will be at the next Repair Cafe from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 18, at the Maple Ridge Seniors Activity Centre, 12150 224 Street.
Ridge Meadows Recycling Society is a community-based, non-profit organization that advocates for zero waste, operates responsible waste reduction services, and provides environmental education.
Maple Ridge Repair Cafes are community events hosted by the society where volunteer fixers contribute their skills to help in repairing broken household items like small furniture items, torn clothes, jewelry, appliances, and bikes – all free of charge. Cash donations are gratefully accepted.
“Bring along family, friends, your broken stuff, and join us for a fun day of repair and activities to keep little ones engaged,” said Koehn.
For more information about Maple Ridge Repair Cafes, go to: https://rmrecycling.org/programs-and-services/repair-cafe/.