Brisbane kids learn how to sew with Sew Sista. CREDIT: Facebook/sewsista.com.au

The children of Brisbane are getting a cursory education in the art of sewing thanks to Sew Sista. The lady teaching kids how to thread a needle and run stitches is Kerry Rushton, who after seeing a lack of skill in the younger set, formed Sew Sista. Sew Sista is an organization that arranges and undertakes sewing workshops to young children. "I really saw a need for kids to learn the skill of sewing, and give them an opportunity to learn that simple life skill. They're learning to thread a needle, sew on a button, to do running stitch. All of these things that we took for granted," says Rushton. She is also quick to point out that these tasks that were once almost completely taught at home now have to have an alternate venue to be taught.

While many would argue that the work they do might be banal and trivial, Rushton is quick to answer that sewing can actually teach children values while helping them learn a basic skill. "They're learning to thread a needle, sew on a button, to do running stitch. All of these things that we took for granted," the mother of three says. "It's also about learning that things can be mended and fixed. It's all about giving them the techniques, and then they can do it for themselves."

Another wonderful characteristic of the program is that it can be a wholesome, safe and comfortable place for kids to explore crafts, make friends and learn more about an ability that seems to be more and more discarded by the new generations. Some might say that the idea is quaint or frivolous but supporters of the project like the organization, Gold Coast Sewing Classes, are expressing how much they love the idea. In the day and age of getting everything fast and easy, the vision of Sew Sista is refreshing and heartfelt-repair what can be fixed before moving on to the next big thing.

For those interested in learning more about the group, Sew Sista will be holding free workshops at the upcoming Green Heart Fair on October 13 at the Carindale Recreation Reserve.