Sewing Projects for Preschoolers are hard to find. Most preschoolers and toddlers don’t have the required skills and coordination to sew the “easy kids sewing projects” you find on pinterest.
I sew sometimes, I like creating costumes best. My mom sewed and made clothes and toys for us when we were kids and continues to sew for her grand-children and great-grand-children. So I am really excited to pass on the skills to Roo.
Here’s a list of sewing projects for preschoolers where they can build the skills necessary to learn to sew.
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Lacing Practice
Before sewing, the concept of lacing should be explored. There are many fun lacing practice toys out there. I really like this one from Melissa and Doug! But you can also make some yourself to go along with it I made this one out of foam paper, a hole punch, and some nylon shoelace. I intended for Roo to lace along the edge of the leaf shape, but she made a cute striped pattern instead.
Thread Leaves
A great sewing project for kids is threading leaves. Take your little one out into nature and find a twig. Then have the child thread leaves onto the twig carefully! It’s sew so simple but it’s great practice for the fine motor skills needed for sewing.
Mannequin Dress Up
Yes, there is a mannequin dress form under all of that! (Not technically “sewing” I know, but it’s part of the process.) I lowered mine to Roo’s level and pulled out a box of scraps. She then piled on everything she deemed “pretty” and would step back to survey before adding, “but not pretty enough.” If you don’t have a dress form, you can use a doll or get creative with a mop or broom! Last week it was our family dog (sorry Sasha) as long as you provide the materials and the suggestions, their little creative minds will do the rest.
Cut Fabric
Aren’t you glad so many of these kid’s sewing projects include using your stack/bags/boxes of scraps? Don’t have any? Just ask a sewing friend, I’m sure they will be more than happy to supply you! For this one, your preschooler should be fairly comfortable with scissors. Start with paper first, then let them cut some of those fabric scraps. Cutting out patterns is something every seamstress needs to know!
Glue Quilt Squares
Designing a quilt is sometimes more fun than actually sewing it. Give your preschooler the fabric scraps they cut and a piece of cardstock or cardboard paper. Then have them glue the fabric to the sturdy paper and create something beautiful to them. We did this kid’s “sewing” project last year in school when our letter of the week was Q!
Sew Sequins
This sewing project for preschoolers is where we will start to introduce the needle. If you are at all unsure of your preschooler’s readiness, just stick to the first projects. They are all super fun and don’t include small sharp objects.
Thread a needle for your child, tie a knot at the end, and pull it through some material. Next, you’ll need some sequins. Let them thread the sequins on to the thread using the needle. Remind the how sharp the point is, but they will inevitably poke themselves at least once. Roo did it literally every time, would say “ouch” then promptly add “I’m OK,” and keep threading. When they’ve done a few, thread the needle back through the material and back up again so they can repeat. Remember to leave enough thread to allow you to knot it in the back when they are done.
Sew Buttons
The final sewing project for preschoolers is sewing on buttons. Never leave them unattended with the sharp pointy object. Besides, they will need your help. A lot. But let them practice with as many buttons as they feel comfortable with. Roo was so proud of herself when she finished!
After a little practice, maybe she will even do a project like this apple button tree from Rhythms of Play!
Sewing Projects for Preschoolers
You don’t have to be an expert seamstress to get your kids started in sewing. They can never be too young to learn, even toddlers can do some of the projects above!
I’m interested to know, when did you learn to sew on a button? Who taught you?
Comment or email me your answer!