A needle pulling thread
September became National Sewing Month in a proclamation from President Ronald Reagan in 1982, “In recognition of the importance of home sewing to our Nation.”
Sewing is one of the oldest textile arts because of course, people need clothing. For thousands of years, all sewing was done by hand. Although Isaac Singer didn’t invent the sewing machine, he made improvements in its practicality, and he made it easier for American families to purchase a machine. When he patented his idea, he changed home sewing forever.
Sewing machines have come a long way since the original treadle version.
Along with hundreds of specialty stitches, many have features available such as self-threading and making consistently sized buttonholes—with just the touch of a button. There are machines that embroider, monogram, quilt, and have programmable memory banks. Some machines are so advanced they look like the control panel of a space ship.
With so many options to purchase ready-made clothing and home decor, one might wonder, why sew at all? The answer is simple. Wearing something you made for yourself, or displaying something handmade in your home gives you a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment. It also gives you the opportunity to express your individuality with an original design. If you can’t find what you want in a shop, you can make it!
As cooler temperatures return and schedules once again become routine, September is the perfect time to indulge in your creative passion—or to try a new craft. It’s estimated that one third of the country’s adult female population enjoy sewing.
Taking a sewing or quilting class is a great way to learn new skills and to make new friends. In classes you have the opportunity to experiment with different fabrics, thread, tools, and techniques. Learning something new is a confidence builder with the bonus of having something tangible to take home. Many find that along with the joy of creating something new, the challenge of learning something new is part of the attraction.
The benefits of sewing don’t end with self-expression and creativity. Sewing can be therapeutic. Being creative can reduce your heart rate, lower your blood pressure and perspiration rate. Sewing often requires meditative focus. I’ve heard it said, “When I sew, I don’t smoke, I don’t eat, I don’t worry. I just sew.”
What may begin as a hobby can become a way of life. When you discover the joy in creating, there is no turning back. Creative satisfaction keeps you coming back for more. You can enhance your personal style whether you enjoy making quilts for your bed, pillow covers for your sofa, placemats for your table, or original, one-of-a-kind designs to wear.
The feeling you get from creating something yourself is so gratifying. Spend some time with a needle and thread. You will see for yourself just how fulfilling sewing can be.