An eye for the needle

Naperville business teaches kids the art of sewing

Sophia Moreau won't be shopping for a Halloween costume this year.

Instead, the crafty Naperville teen will be wearing a costume she created and sewed for herself.

"I love making clothes," said the seventh-grader. "It just makes you feel good to wear something and say 'I made that.'"

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Lexi Bartz, 11, works on a tree skirt at Sewing for Kids in Naperville. Jane Donahue / For The Sun

» Click to enlarge image

Sophia Moreau, who learned to sew through Sewing for Kids, said the hobby is a nice way to unwind after a busy day. Jane Donahue / For the Sun

Since then, Kristufek has introduced more than 150 students to the art of sewing.

"My goal is to provide a positive, safe and fun environment where children can learn the craft of sewing," said Kristufek.

Kristufek stocks all the latest fabrics and students choose from "kid fun and kid friendly" patterns as they develop their sewing skills.

"The most rewarding part of teaching sewing to kids is seeing the smiles on their faces when they complete their chosen project," said Kristufek. "Whether they just learn to do simple repairs or learn how to make clothes and home decor, it is a skill that they can use all their life."

At Sewing for Kids, Kristufek has seen students learn more than how to stitch fabric together.

"The students gain self-confidence and self-esteem," said Kristufek, who learned to sew while a student at Lincoln Junior High and Naperville Central High School. "They come to class to create a sewing project and see it through from beginning to end. They leave extremely proud of what they have created and accomplished."

Naperville mom Susan Bahl said she searches to find activities for her 11-year-old daughter that "will make her a well-rounded person." Bahl said Sewing for Kids meets the criteria.

"Kendall has gained a skill that will help her in so many ways throughout her life," said Bahl. "This is the one class, the one hobby she continues to develop. She will take this skill with her, and I'm excited about that."

Skillfulness aside, Sophia Moreau said sewing is just plain fun.

"Sewing is different from sports because you're not competing against anyone," said Moreau, who plays soccer, basketball and runs cross country. "You don't have to be the best. Sewing is just fun and relaxing. If I have a hard day at school, I can just put on some music and work on a project."

To learn more about Sewing Lessons for Kids, visit www.sewing4kids.com .