September is National Sewing Month — the perfect time to pick up a new skill or revisit a beloved hobby. Sewing has been part of human history for more than 20,000 years, serving both practical and creative purposes. Whether you're just getting started or you're an experienced craftsperson, BCLS has resources to help spark your inspiration.
Online Resources
Watch tutorials online to learn the basics of sewing and how to use a sewing machine through Kanopy with their Sewing Essentials series, and if you already have the basics down, try their Sewing With Texture series.
Looking for your next inspiration? Check out instructional video classes and workshops with Creativebug! Courses teach beginner, intermediate and advanced sessions covering sewing, knitting/crocheting, drawing, painting, jewelry-making and so much more.
Physical Collection
There are a variety of books in our collection for a whole range of ages and skill levels to get you started or to help brainstorm ideas for your next project.
Kids
Creative Kids Complete Photo Guide to Sewing by Janith Bergeron
A Kid's Guide to Sewing by Sophie Kerr
Sewing School by Amie Petronis Plumley
Sew U by Wendy Mullin
Adults
Sewing Machines Made Simple by Jessica Shaw
Sewing for Dummies by Janice Saunders Maresh
Elevate your Scrap Sewing Projects by Sallieann Harrison
Elevate your Scrap Sewing Projects by Sonya Philip
Classes
Want hands-on experience? Check out programming to really see what you can make. For example:
Kids ages 6-12 can join Pemberton Library every month for Sewing 101! Learn basic sewing skills with library staff. On October 4 at 11:30 am, all materials are provided to make a felt pumpkin.
Adults at the Burlington County Library can sign up for Crafternoon on October 14 at 12 pm and Crafter Dark on October 29 at 6 pm. This month, the group gathers to make a felt "Ugly" doll using simple stitching and stuffing skills.
