|
Summary and Objective
This lesson, which will span two sessions, will introduce children to the making of a simple nine-patch quilt and to actually get them started on making their own quilts. The goal will be to get children thinking about the history of a quilt and how it can "tell a story" just as American quilts did long ago and still do today. Besides the historical perspective, an additional emphasis will be on noticing the uses of geometry in quiltmaking.
Teaching Plan
Step 1.
Ahead of time collect/purchase various interesting scraps of material. Cut into 4 " squares so that there are enough for each child to have 9 squares. Also collect enough material to cut a
9 1/2" square for each child to back his/her quilt. Gather straight pins, sewing needles, thread, and quilt batting (also cut into 9 1/2" squares). Arrange for parent volunteers who know a bit about sewing to be available to help on the day you begin the actual sewing.
Step 2.
In the first session, read "The Patchwork Quilt" by Valerie Flournoy. Discuss the theme of the story and how quilts can "tell stories" just as it did for Grandma and Tanya. Mention that Tanya is young just as they are and she made a quilt. Show the children the online reference (page 41) to quiltmaking in a diary by a young girl named Ellen Louisa Arms and point out that she was only 12.
Step 3.
Show the children other online photos of 4 quilts; Rising Star Quilt, Mosaic or Honeycomb Quilt, Crazy Quilt with Netted Border and Peony Quilt. Use the "look closer" feature so children can see the stitching and the geometric patterns better. Encourage children to look for symmetrical patterns as well.
Step 4.
Divide students into groups of 4 (I find this number works best). Have each child pick nine 4" squares and one 9 1/2" square. Batting will be handed out when sewing is completed.
Step 5.
In the second session, show children a finished nine-patch quilt. Demonstrate how to thread a needle and about how much thread to start with. Next show students how to pin two patches together and how to measure a 1/4" seam allowance. Lots of leeway is needed here allowing for little hands and inexperience.
Step 6.
With prearranged parent volunteers to help, go around the room trouble-shooting as each child begins his/ her project. It is a bit hectic at first, but as the children get accustomed to what they are doing, it goes much smoother. AND they help each other!!
Step 7.
On subsequent days, the children will gather in their sewing circles and complete their quilts. As children finish their projects, the batting will be handed out and the children will be shown how to asemble the quilt top, the batting and the backing material to complete their nine-patch quilts.
|
