Kids everywhere are in stitches . . . sewing stitches, that is. They are discovering the wonder and joy found in simple needle and thread. And while sewing offers an array of benefits for children it nurtures creativity and cognitive ability, refines coordination, boosts confidence, and is a skill they ll use their whole lives kids know that it s just plain fun." Sewing School" authors Amie Plumley and Andria Lisle teach a sewing camp in Memphis, Tennessee, which has earned accolades from delighted children and parents. When families clamored for more, Plumley and Lisle launched a blog, sewingschool.blogspot.com, to rave reviews. Now, they ve channeled the best of their children s sewing projects into this lively, how-to sew book for ages five and up. Featuring 21 inspired projects for young sewers," Sewing School" allows kids to create fabric masterpieces with minimal supervision. All projects have been kid-tested, most can be made using simple hand stitches, and all can be embellished with a personal touch, making them a terrific outlet for kids creativity. To further inspire young needle-crafters, the book is peppered with photos and quotes from real boys and girls who have participated in the authors sewing camp. Projects include items that children can hug (pillows, doll, blanket), hold (wallet, tote, drawstring pouch), give as gifts (coasters, glasses case, pot holder), and wear (sleep mask, hat, cuffs). Each project features step-by-step instructions written at a second-grade reading level, a close-up photo of every step, and a photo of the finished project. The book includes full-sized cutout patterns in a front pocket and instructions for how grownups can help.

Andria Lisle, freelance journalist and author of "Waking Up in Memphis", writes about music, food, and pop culture for "The Commercial Appeal" newspaper and the "Memphis Flyer" alt-weekly, as well as for myriad magazines including "Paste", "MOJO", and "Garden and Gun". When not at her laptop, she loves to sew.