| Sewing is
a very popular activity at the East African Women’s Center.
14 women are currently enrolled
in our sewing classes. Starting by learning to sew straight, learners
progress to aprons, scarves, bags, and children’s clothes;
the Center’s intermediate sewers are already beginning to
sew skirts and blouses.
The women love the program and the only complaint
is that there isn’t even more time to sew. Our dream eventually
is to expand the sewing/weaving area and make the new space available
to experienced sewers on evenings and weekends.
Since most of the women who
come to the Center speak limited English and have never sewed
before, sewing classes—with six or seven students each—generally
have |
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| Women
are eager to learn to sew, and come to sew every chance they
get. It is a useful skill to learn and a chance to socialize
with friends. |
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two teachers.
Along with being a practical money-saving skill, sewing builds hand/eye
coordination, confidence, as well as other work-related skills like
being on time and following directions. Some of the women also participate
in the East African Women’s Textile Cooperative and are learning
to make products to sell to the larger community. Spring classes
will begin in late April and will include instruction for both beginning
and intermediate sewers. There will also be one day of “open”
sewing for women who have been taking classes for a while at the
Center. Women who want to learn to sew may come to the Center to
sign up. All classes are free. |
