I would like to do a quilt project with a group of developmentally disabled adults. I have been able to adapt the process for how to use a pattern, cut out the pattern pieces, etc., but I really need a way for them to sew it semi-independently.
I'm looking for a way to make an inexpensive "guide" for the fabric seam so that the seam stays straight even if the individual cannot hold it in place or lets go by mistake. I have seen those sticky strips of orange plastic, but I really need something higher that won't accidentally slip under the foot and be sewn on. These strips are also very short and would require constant replacing. If anyone has any ideas, I would love to hear them.
By Lisa
Add your voice! Click below to answer. ThriftyFun is powered by your wisdom!
I work with children that have handicap and I use large paper clips to hold paper together so they can glue it together or even show them how the two piece fit together for their project. I have tried this with material and it works just as well, all you have to do when the sewing is done is to remove the paper clips and you have the project at a great point so you can combine the pieces together from other people who maybe working on more squares.
Could you use painter's tape on the fabric where the stitching goes? Painter's tape is minimally sticky, and pulls off with no residue. It would give straight stitching lines, and not fall off. Hope this helps.
I don't know if this would work, but maybe you could try double sided mounting tape (foam kind). It's about an 16th of an inch thick and you could lay it on the fabric in line beside proposed stitching.
Second idea: tape the mounting tape in layers on the machine to run the edge of the fabric against as they sew. Good Luck! I used to work with developmentally disabled adults with physical disabilities. Believe me, I had to figure out many adaptions!
I did this with my sister who is an older, mentally handicapped person who has a caregiver. I cut out all of the pieces and marked the wrong side in pencil, giving a sewing line. My sister, with the caregiver's help, hand sewed together 4 squares at a time. I then put it all together with my sewing machine (yes, going over and reinforcing her stitching, but she didn't know that). She is so proud of the quilt we made together. I am grateful for the ideas for crafts presented on this site.
Add your voice! Click below to answer. ThriftyFun is powered by your wisdom!
