Sewing

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Share your memories of Singer sewing machines

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Did you know that the patent for the very first Singer sewing machine was issued on August 12, 1851?  That’s 160 years ago!!  The folks at Singer are celebrating the 160th anniversary of their machine with a special website where people can post stories and memories of their Singer sewing machines. 

I’ve got a couple of my own out there, including one of the Singer 20-10 toy machine that I used to play with when I was a child.  It had been my mother’s, and we recently let my own daughter sew on it as well.

Go to www.mySINGERstory.com to read all of the stories out there already, and to enter your own.  Anyone who shares a Singer story gets entered to win one of the limited edition commemorative machines (available Jan. 2012).  According to Singer, these commemorative machines look like antiques on the outside, but their insides are modern and the features innovative.  (Can’t wait to see what one looks like!!)

Deadline is August 31, 2011.

Comments

  1. I got my first Singer sewing machine in 1972, I was twelve. I loved it, my mom and grandmother were both sewers and out of 5 children in our family I am the only one to wanted to learn. I made doll clothes, mini quilts, more like pot holders, after all the maching was only abot 8″ high and 12″ long. I learned a lot with it. I often wish I still had it, working or not.

  2. Great site!!!!!!!! I FINALLY found out how old my present machine is!!!! IT’S A KEEPER!!!!!! 🙂

  3. Here’s a question! If one DOESNT’ win this fabulous machine, can one BUY IT somewhere????? That would be REALLY GREAT!!!!! Thanks!~

  4. I’m sewing on my mom’s 1971 high school graduation present! She moved overseas and I get her wonder machine all to myself. We’re good friends 😉

  5. I designed my own wedding gown and made it on a Singer Featherweight. That was over 30 years ago! The first sewing machine I ever used was a Singer Featherweight, I love them, they’re so reliable and they sew beautifully.

  6. My mother had the Singer Featherweight on which I learned to sew and I loved it, neither of my daughters have had any interest in sewing but my granddaughters have the “bug” and it is a joy to teach them, I am 66 and still remember making my own skirts and slacks when I couldn’t afford to buy what was in style for JR and SR high school. Singer has been my sewing friend since 7th grade when I hade my first “home ec.” class of sewing

Have you read?

Sewing for Seniors: A Roundup of Practical Patterns for Aged Care and Dementia

As a caregiver to an elderly parent navigating the challenges of aging and dementia, I’ve found myself on a mission to create thoughtful, practical items that assist in everyday care while maintaining a sense of dignity and comfort. Over the years, my sewing projects have shifted from creating cute clothes for my children to sewing things that support my parents through their later years. It’s not always easy, and it can be heartbreaking at times, but crafting these items has brought a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

If you’re in a similar situation and looking for sewing patterns and tutorials to support your loved one, whether they are in a wheelchair, dealing with dementia, or simply needing adaptive clothing, this roundup is for you. These patterns offer solutions to daily challenges, from sensory stimulation to maintaining dignity and comfort. 

Adult dignity bib 

When caring for someone with dementia, eating can often become a messy experience. An adult dignity bib offers a simple but effective way to help prevent spills and ensure that your loved one remains comfortable and clean during mealtime. This pattern provides a great way to create a stylish and practical solution for dignity and comfort.

How to Turn a Plush into a Weighted Toy  

Weighted toys can be a calming and comforting tool for seniors, especially those experiencing anxiety or agitation. This tutorial shows you how to transform a soft plush toy into a weighted sensory item, offering soothing pressure and comfort to help relax your loved one. It’s a great way to create a personalized, comforting toy that provides sensory input.

Eye Pillow – Weighted 

Tulip Walker Tote Bag 

Special Needs Bib Pattern — CraftBits.com 

Make a Fidget Quilt with Rob! 

Fidget quilts are fantastic tools for dementia patients, offering tactile stimulation and promoting calmness. In this video tutorial, Rob guides you through the process of making a fidget quilt, showing you how to add various textures, buttons, zippers, and other engaging features to keep your loved one’s hands busy and focused

Making Fidget Quilts for Dementia Patients | Madam Sew – MadamSew

How to sew a fidget quilt 

How to Make a DIY Lycra Sensory Bed Sheet | And Next Comes L – Hyperlexia Resources

Lycra sensory bed sheets are an excellent choice for providing calming pressure during sleep. This pattern from And Next Comes L explains how to make a DIY Lycra sensory bed sheet that can help your loved one feel secure and relaxed while they sleep, which is especially useful for those with sensory processing issues.

Wheelchair And Walker Carry Bag Sewing Pattern

Tutorial: No-sew adaptive sweatshirt for wheelchair users 

Tutorial: Adult-sized bib – Sewing

How to Make a Fidget Blanket 

Sewing pattern: How to Make a Fidget Quilt 

How to Make an Adult Pocket Diaper

For individuals who need additional care in maintaining hygiene, adult pocket diapers can be a game-changer. This pattern teaches you how to create a comfortable, functional pocket diaper, ensuring your loved one stays dry and comfortable throughout the day.

How to Sew an Adult Front Closure Swim Diaper 

How to Sew a Fitted Adult Cloth Diaper

For those looking for an eco-friendly and budget-conscious option, sewing a fitted adult cloth diaper can be a great solution. This pattern offers detailed instructions for creating a well-fitting, reusable cloth diaper for adults who need additional support.

The Linda Pants – Free Adaptive Sewing Pattern

Adapting Creatively: Wheelchair Rain Poncho Tutorial

This wheelchair rain poncho is a practical and thoughtful accessory for wheelchair users. This tutorial shows you how to make a poncho that will keep your loved one dry while they’re out and about, ensuring they stay comfortable in all weather conditions.

Adapting Creatively: Split-back Wheelchair Jacket

 Weighted Blanket

Weighted Lap Pad

For those who need a little extra calming weight throughout the day, a weighted lap pad is an ideal choice. This simple but effective pattern helps you create a lap pad that can be placed on your loved one’s lap for a soothing, calming effect that promotes relaxation and comfort.