Completing a Tie-dye Waistcoat

Here's a very basic reflection: when you have worked with in a material area for years and have precision and expertise, it is a bit of a challenge to plan projects that are “easy” enough for year 7/8/9.  You want them to be challenging and have potential for perfection, but you have to acknowledge that there will be a fair bit of step-by-step.

But back to textiles.  Today we were marking up – using notches, pivot points, marking darts, tailor's tacks.  These are little things but they do a lot to simplify/inform the making process.  I guess when you are experienced you rely on them less but kids need indicators at every step if their piece is going to succeed.

It is also useful to define order of assembly processes: a) sew stuff on flat pieces: darts, pockets, etc. b) join pieces.  c) finishing.

Sarah recommended seeking out a documentary called “The Secret Life of a Sewing Machine”.  I found it on YouTube and it is super old-skool and good fun.