Sewing has always been with us since when human beings started to cover themselves with clothes. Even before the sewing machine was invented, sewing had been done manually. People joined pieces of fabrics together using a needle and some thread. Although the process was strenuous and the delivery of such production was few. But with the advent of the sewing machine, sewing improved and became less stressful and more productive. However, it is unfortunate that most young people today do not know what a sewing machine is, because sewing has been computerized now and human efforts are not needed that much. Besides being a means of making wearables, sewing helps one to save money, be creative and innovative, express themselves and even give a sense of accomplishment. As such, young people will gain a lot from sewing. Here are ways we can increase the awareness for sewing among young people;
Sewing should be taught in the homes
Every young person came from a family, they have a home. Since the home is the first agent of socialization, any skill that young people has to imbibe should be taught in the home for better retention. If every home had a sewing machine, as curious beings, children will want to practise on it. As such, they will grow up into young people who do not find the concept of a sewing machine strange. Even if young people do not show interest at first, they will know that a sewing machine can be very entertaining and inspirational when you see your own creation.
Sewing should be included in the school’s curriculum
The school is the second agent of socialization. During the period of growing up, most of the things children know are taught in schools. Habits, skills, mind-set, knowledge, experience, etc. are picked up in school. As such, many young people will know more about sewing, including what a sewing machine looks like and how to operate it, thereby having a society where both the older and younger generation are on the same par as regards sewing knowledge. The schools and individuals would need to get a sewing machine. There are a lot of prices when we are looking to buy a sewing machine. Hence, we can look out for the one that meets the functionality we are interested in and/or our budget.
Sewing should be portrayed as an honourable job in the society
Another reason that deters young people from knowing what a sewing machine looks like is that most people in the society associate sewing with a low social class. For instance, people are likely to regard a doctor or a CEO higher than somebody who sews. As such, sewing is being portrayed in an unattractive way. However, the narratives are changing since the sewing industry has been computerized and fashion has become one of the stakeholders in society. Sewing should be portrayed as an honourable job in the society to encourage more people to learn it.
Young people themselves should seek out what they can make with their hands
Making something with your hands help you to be more creative and innovative. Besides, it is a great form of therapy. It is also a means of communing will yourself, reaching into the deepest parts of your being and connecting with the genius deep inside of you. Besides, making things with your hands gives you a rare sense of accomplishment and satisfaction with yourself. In seeking out what they can do with their hands even in this computer age, young people will come across sewing as part of the options. From that, they can develop an interest in it and even think of pursuing it as a career.
Parents, guides and other authorities should not discourage their young ones from sewing
Some parents and guides try to keep their children away from skills that require the use of hands. Some even believe that such skills are beneath their children and are socially backward. As long as those young people consider their heads continue to do this, most young people may never get to know about what it means to see, let alone knowing what a sewing machine looks like. Also, young people who willingly decide to learn the skill and explore the field should not be discouraged. Rather, they should be supported.