Several new programs at the Stewart C. Meyer Harker Heights Library have nothing to do with books. Library director Lisa Youngblood is also one of the instructors for several new “Learn to Sew” classes taking place this month.
Youngblood says kids can learn the basics of a sewing machine, with a vocabulary list of sewing terms.
“Then we walk them through a simple step-by-step process and end up with a handmade bag or tote,” Youngblood said.
“Sewing is fun,” said Anna Johnson, 9, as she pedaled her sewing machine. Johnson and his sister, Ruth, 7, were busy with their machines on Tuesday.
Originally, the classes were developed to supplement lessons for homeschooled families, giving them a chance to get out of their usual classroom environment.
“Learning how the machine works and then using it to create something beautiful is both a science and an art,” Youngblood said.
Vivi Wilson was on hand as her daughter Rosemary, 7, and son Noah, 9, learned how to sew and pivot, backstitch and stop.
The classroom environment took off as Youngblood and other parents moved between stations to lend assistance as needed.
“Now we have to make straps,” Youngblood said. She showed how to sew close to the edge and turn the pieces to make handles for the bag.
Brothers Jack, 12, and Rowan, 8, were able to follow the instructions. The boy’s mother, Theresa Peet of Fort Hood, said she learned a thing or two about sewing.
Aaron Roman, 8, and his sister Aliyah, 10, were all smiles as they finished sewing. Mom Brittany Roman from Killeen helped sew and shoot the finished project.
With so much interest in learning to sew, Youngblood has scheduled additional classes for October 20 and November 5. Some courses require pre-registration. Contact the library for more information on their Facebook page or visit their website at https://harkerheights.gov/library.
