Zoe Project #1: Toddler Sewing Kit

I always wished that I had learned to sew.  I mean, I know how to replace a button or patch a tear, but I always drool over the homemade items on Pinterest.  Well, maybe Zoe and I can learn together, if she takes to it.  

I started with a toddler sewing kit idea that was orginally based on a post I saw on Pinterest from Childhood 101.  I've adapted it with some ideas of my own. 
    

First idea is a toddler-friendly embroidery set.  I used an embroidery hoop and a non-slip shelf mat for the "fabric", and a plastic embroidery needle and yarn for the needle and thread.  I provided her with two small yarn balls to start.

RESULT: I helped her thread the needle and demonstrate the first stitch, and then she loved it!  The holes are big enough for her needle to easily push through.  (I had to got to several stores to find shelf liners that had large holes - found at Target.
 

The second element is a beading activity.  I found a parmesan shaker at World Market, and pipe cleaners and beads with large holes at Joanne's. 

RESULT:  Zoe lost interest after about 5 minutes, but I think she'll want to do it again.  Soon she can make her own necklaces!

Next, how about a toddler quilt?  I simply cut pieces of felt into squares and triangles, and let her put down patterns on a felt board to make her own "quilts."

Before we started this activity, we looked at some of the quilts in her room and in my room, and pointed out squares and triangles.  I also printed photos of a few quilts on a piece of cardstock to keep with the activity.  The PDF is here.

RESULT:  She loved it!  I think she'll do this on over and over!

I organized all of the supplies in this box I found at Joanne's. 

If you have ideas to share, please do!  Leave a comment below!

    
SUPPLY LIST FOR THIS PROJECT:

Embroidery hoop
Non-slip shelf mat with large holes (Target)
Plastic embroidery needle
Yarn
Parmesan shaker
Popsicle sticks
Electrical tape
Pipe cleaners
Beads with large holes
Felt
Felt board
Container to store all supplies

See other three Pin-Tested projects here.