I love introducing kids to stitching in all its forms. Not only did I teach my daughter how to stitch on plastic canvas and fabric (as well as knitting and sewing, we’re still working on crochet), I’ve taught other kids through one-time lessons and crafty summer camps. I think it’s so important to pass on these skills to the next generation and give kids something to do that doesn’t involve a screen.
Regardless of your cross stitch skill level, you might be a little intimidated by the idea of teaching your own child or others how to cross stitch.
Caterpillar Cross Stitch has a great guide to teaching cross stitch to kids, including a breakdown of what skills kids are likely to be able to handle at each age. She recommends starting little ones of plastic canvas with yarn and plastic needles, which is what I did, too.
For early elementary I would have them stitch on burlap, and older kids can use regular cross stitch fabric (possibly with a lower count/fewer holes per inch to make it a little easier).
The post also covers all the supplies you need to get a kid (or yourself!) started with cross stitch, as well as ideas for patterns that kids might like and not be too intimidated by.
She also includes tips for how to teach kids cross stitch and reminders to make it better for everyone. Remember that for most kids, if it’s the adult making the suggestion that they ought to try a craft but they don’t really have any interest, that isn’t going to go well, so make sure the kid has the option to pick the pattern and supplies they want to use and says how long your stitching session gets to be.
Check out all the advice at Caterpillar Cross Stitch. Have you ever taught a child to cross stitch? I’d love to hear your advice.
[Photo: Caterpillar Cross Stitch]
