Support Our Programs

People of all ages can enjoy engaging in creative pursuits such as sewing and crocheting, but there can be barriers that prevent them from fully participating in these activities. Owning, storing, and maintaining sewing machines can be too expensive for many. Our Open Studio space removes these barriers by providing access not only to machines but to highly experienced coaches who can assist with sewing/crochet projects. This mentorship is often essential for anyone who is eager to learn new skills or techniques. By providing these resources, our Open Studios enable participants to grow their skills, engage in problem solving activities, and build confidence in their creative endeavors.

Sew4Service Teachers offer a variety of classes that can be taught as part of library programming. We provide beginner classes such as Learn to Use Your Sewing Machine, Learn to Crochet, Learn to Knit as well as intermediate level classes like Amigurumi Crochet, Slow Stitching, and Sew a Pillowcase. These classes usually fill up the day they are listed on the library website.

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In order to make these classes more accessible to libraries with limited budgets, we are seeking grant support to cover the cost of these classes. Libraries usually do not charge their patrons to attend their programming and so are limited as to how many and which programs they can bring to their branches, based on their programming budget. By receiving grant support for these sewing and crocheting classes, libraries can stretch their budget to include more programming for their patrons.

A dedicated space where volunteers can gather to share their sewing skills becomes far more than a workspace—it becomes a hub of purpose, creativity, and connection. In this environment, donated fabrics are thoughtfully upcycled into meaningful items that directly support those in need, transforming surplus materials into tangible acts of care. Volunteers not only contribute their time and talents but also find a sense of belonging among others who are driven by service and compassion. As skills are shared, friendships are formed, and collective impact grows, this space nurtures both community and confidence, empowering individuals to make a difference while fostering a culture of sustainability and generosity.

Sewing, whether by hand or with a sewing machine, is a valuable skill for practical mending purposes, but also for a creative outlet which is important for overall health. Sewing skills are a very important life long skill, something that is not always included in the school curriculum, and so these sewing programs fill that gap. Schools and community centers do not always have the physical resources or experienced teachers to provide sewing programs, so grant support for this program ensures that kids have access to sewing machines and experienced teachers to develop their sewing skills.

Sometimes an agency will request a special item for us to make which is not commercially available. We work to fulfill these requests during Charity Sewing workshops, which is a time when we invite volunteers to come and sew items that have been requested by an agency. A sewing workshop is led by a staff member who is able to guide volunteers on the specific requirements for the requested project, and provide the appropriate supplies to be used by the volunteers. These special items will need a pattern and instructions designed so the volunteers are able to make the requested items.

Many social services agencies, hospitals, nursing homes and homeless shelters request handmade items like quilts, crocheted and knitted blankets, tote bags, pillowcases, baby items, pet blankets in order to provide comfort and support for their clients. These handmade items provide a tangible expression of love and peace for those receiving these items during difficult times in their lives. Cutting, assembling, and providing the charity kits for volunteers to make handmade items at home extends the volunteer base from which we receive donated finished items. Some volunteers want to help others through their sewing talents, but need assistance cutting the fabric. This is also a good way to use donated fabrics, upcycling them as they are diverted from a landfill.