'180 Years Of The Sewing Machine' 🧵 10 September
Celebrating 180 Years of the Sewing Machine
On 9 September 2026, we mark 180 years since American inventor Elias Howe patented an important lockstitch sewing machine in 1846. Sewing machines existed before Howe’s patent, but his design helped transform sewing from a slow, entirely hand-worked task into a much faster domestic and industrial process.
These activities explore the history of the sewing machine while celebrating the clothes, fabrics, skills and memories connected with sewing. We begin with some fascinating facts before testing our knowledge by naming familiar sewing items and recognising materials including satin, denim, lace, tweed, tartan, corduroy, velvet and linen.
Our reminiscence activities invite everyone to recall sewing on buttons, darning socks, repairing worn elbows and learning needlework at school. We also remember homemade clothes, second-hand clothing and much-loved “hand-me-downs” passed between family members.
There are familiar sewing sayings to complete and a picture challenge featuring television programmes connected with sewing, fashion, crafts and antiques—including Mr Benn, Are You Being Served?, The Rag Trade, Bagpuss, The Great British Sewing Bee, Grayson Perry’s Art Club and Antiques Roadshow.
Music is woven throughout the activities with sewing-, clothing- and fabric-themed songs, including Needles and Pins, Dedicated Follower of Fashion, Blue Velvet, These Boots Are Made for Walkin’ and Forever in Blue Jeans.
Take time to talk, laugh, sing and share memories along the way. Whether someone was an accomplished dressmaker or simply remembers watching a parent repair the family’s clothes, everyone can contribute something to this celebration of sewing through the generations.
Simon’s CST Activities — Boosting brain power together to benefit quality of life.
Comments