While using sharp tools is an unavoidable part of sewing, there are some ways you can limit the danger for little ones who are just starting out. It is up to you as the grown up to decide what your child is ready for and when. Here are some of the tools I recommend primarily for children 7 and under.
Plastic yarn needles
Larger than most needles, yarn needles are easier for little hands to hold. They can be difficult to push through a tight weave, so I recommend using them for practice sewing through lacing cards or burlap.
Steel yarn needles
These large needles are a great in between from plastic needles to true hand sewing or embroidery needles. They are fairly blunt, but can go through felt or linen without any issues.
Snips
Snips are easy for little hands, because they use a spring to open back up, so they just need to be pushed together to cut yarn or thread. These plastic ones are easy on little hands. You could also buy a fabric scissor set that includes snips, so that you have grown up fabric scissors for your project prep all in one purchase.
Small scissors
When your kid is ready to move up from snips, a pair of small fabric scissors can be a perfect bridge to big scissors. They’ll be capable of cutting some small shapes from fabric with them, as well as cutting threads and yarn like the snips. I recommend finding some with a cover like these cutter bee precision scissors or my favorite embroidery scissors.
Seam ripper
Mistakes are inevitable, and a seam ripper will help you undo your work to try again. This folding seam ripper can be safely put away inside the large and easy to hold handle.
With these special tools you’ll be able to keep your kiddo safer and cater to their needs while teaching them a new and important life skill. Happy Sewing!
