I really enjoyed the phone seminar mentioned in my previous post. It was hosted by Marilyn Moll from the www.Urbanhomemaker.com She interviewed Ruth Sundeen and Rebekah Wilson regarding Hope Chests and Sewing/Needlework Skills. Both ladies had a lot of good information to share and I even had my question answered!
I am planning to purchase Rebekah Wilson’s Needlework Skills, Book 1 when possible. She spoke briefly about it in the phone seminar and it sounds great. Rebekah said she tired to write her instructions assuming that you did not know anything about sewing. I like this idea since even Sewing for Dummies has me a little confused! If you want to know more about her book click here
Both ladies spoke about the satisfaction one receives from sewing, especially by hand. I have experinced this a little and would really like to learn more and teach my daughter.
Which brings me to my next point...I asked what was the best way to start with a 6 year old (My daughter is only 5 but I don’t think we will start until she is 6). They said simple running stitches and backstitches were good. Also practicing sewing in a straight line. It is also good to do small projects that can be completed in a short amount of time so that the child can experince that satisfaction we were talking about. Some projects they suggested were bookmarks, fabric covers for canning jar lids, embriodery and small pillows. I also asked if there were problems with the little ones pricking their fingers with the needle; Rebekah said to start them out with a cross-stitch needle or tapestry needle since the end in blunt. She also uses cross-stitch fabric to teach the stitches.
The other topic discussed was Hope Chests. I love this idea! A hope chest doesn’t even have to be a big fancy wooden box, you can use a rubbermaid container or a shoe box. The idea is that you put special items in throughout the child’s life so that when they leave home and get married they will start out with some much needed things (and also some sentimental ones). Some of the items to include in the hope chest may be tablecloths, hand towels, and aprons. Even better if they are ones you made together! Also books that were important and special family heirlooms. I received Rebekah’s book Hope Chest, A Legacy of Love for Christmas and I can’t wait to read it. Please visit her website for more information Hopechestlegacy.com Also visit Ruth Sundeen’s website, Hopechestsociety.com for more ideas. | 
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