STITCHING THE FUTURE: Chavez Theatre Needs Sewing Machines

Funded Oct 20, 2018

First of all, I would like to thank each of you for aiding us in getting our sewing machines this year. The amount of sheer joy that erupted from my costume department was bonkers. From the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU.

Within the first week of setting up our new machines in our shop, my two student costume shop chiefs- one a freshman and one a sophomore- immediately began to learn their basics. They have not only learned the basic use of those machines, but their stitches are now better than mine. Honestly, I can't sew an invisible zipper as beautifully as my freshman can. It was like there was this raw pent up need to learn and execute a skill. Once I put those machines in their hands, they soaked up every ounce of knowledge I (and Youtube) had and just started to create. Now, they help me teach the rest of our crew how to use the machines before we begin our 1900's costume build for the next show.

I give these students lots of free learn, free sew time in addition to our classes. In that time, the students began creating Christmas presents for their friends and family. Gifts they might not have been able to afford. At least, not of this quality and love. It amazes me to hear them talk about figuring out how they can use these skills to get jobs that aren't fast food. In fact, my impressive freshman, has a standing offer to sew and sell her pieces at the next Nutcracker Market. Her response was, "Great! I can put that money in my college fund!"

I don't have to ask them to get started, they just do. Their level of self confidence has increased greatly. Thank you all again for all the help. You have done a very VERY good thing.”

With gratitude,

Ms. Cramer