By Isabell Macrina
One of the services offered at Medfield Public Library is their classes, often to learn a new art skill or create something useful. This past week they offered a beginner sewing class, to learn how to use sewing machines like the one they have in their makerspace, and available to check out in their library of things. This lesson was particularly useful during the winter, as everyone learned how to make microwavable neck warmers!
The lesson took everyone through the whole process. Led by Bri, everyone started by picking out their fabrics (all cotton, to avoid any melting in the microwave) in various colors and patterns that will make each neck warmer unique. This was also a low-risk task. Everyone works at different speeds and was free to make mistakes because they were all learning.
After teaching everyone how to use the sewing machine, how to pin fabric before sewing it, and making sure you sew the right side together, they were off to the races. With fun color combinations and patterns from floral to butterflies, everyone had a design that was uniquely them.
Throughout the lesson there were a few mistakes, some seams to be ripped out, and the importance of seam allowance was learned, but everyone had a good time. Once they had formed a tube of fabric, with one end sewn together, it was time to add the rice for the weight. As they added a cup of rice in, they sewed one section of the tube off to make sections in it so it would fit comfortably around the neck. Some also added dried lavender with the rice to add a relaxing scent when heated up. Once five sections had rice in each, they sewed the ends shut and had their own neck warmers ready to go!
After popping it in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds on each side, the neck warmer weighed on the neck of their makers and gave a lovely break from the cold winter air. Each patron left with the skills to use the sewing machine and the knowledge they are capable of creating something with their own two hands.
The finished product gives their maker comfort on a cold winter day.
