The goal of the project
The children's fashion school teaches children and teenagers the fundamentals of textile design in a playful and hands-on way, promoting a conscious and sustainable approach to clothing and materials. The program is aimed at participants from financially disadvantaged families and the immediate neighborhood. In addition to developing practical skills, the program focuses on building self-confidence, patience, fine motor skills, and teamwork. The project offers young people a safe space to express their creativity and develop a sustainable perspective on fashion.
Our Process
The course program works with two age-appropriate groups (6–10 years and 11–15 years) in small class sizes of a maximum of eight participants, supervised by two experienced freelance staff.
- Group 6–10 years: Getting to know fabrics and tools, first hand sewing exercises as well as playful influences of the sewing machine for the design of small projects such as pillows, bags or stuffed animals.
- Group 11–15 years: The course focuses on developing sewing techniques, working with simple patterns, and creating their own fashion projects (e.g., bags, skirts), as well as upcycling old clothes. At the end of each course block, the children present their creations in a small exhibition or fashion show.
Place and time
The course takes place weekly, with two-hour sessions, over a period of one year. The premises are equipped with workstations featuring sewing machines, tool sets, and fabric storage. The course is open to children and teenagers aged 6 to 10 and 11 to 15. (The specific project period and location must be added by the chairperson in the backend).
Effect
The project combines practical craftsmanship with educational goals, creating an attractive leisure activity that unites learning and fun. Participants acquire practical everyday skills, experience quick successes, and develop a heightened awareness of consumption, sustainability, and resources. Intensive support in small groups and the final presentation also strengthen group cohesion and personal pride in their own work.