A Stitch in Time: Learning to Sew with Mama and the Beloved Chair Cushion

AI version of me around the time this story happen. That bowl cut!

Yesterday was my mom's 80th birthday, and even though she's no longer with us, I wanted to share a fun little story about the time she helped me learn to use her beloved sewing machine. It's a tale of creativity, determination, and the special bond we shared. So, grab a cup of tea and let's journey back to my third grade year.

When I was in the third grade, my classmates and I often complained to Mrs. Kell about the hard plastic chairs we had to sit in. One day, she jokingly suggested that if we made our own cushions and they looked good, we could use them. Despite her jest, I saw this as a golden opportunity. Determined to take on the challenge, I went home and told my mom about the sewing project I needed help with. I had already planned the design: a perfectly square inch-and-a-half piece of foam, which I knew we already had, covered with navy blue denim fabric from my mom’s stash.

Mama was eager to help. She guided me through cutting out the fabric, pinning it up, and teaching me how to use her sewing machine. Together, we made straps and sewed the fabric to create a cover for the foam. Once it was ready, I proudly brought the cushion to school. Mrs. Kell didn’t believe I had made it at first and even looked for evidence of a tag. But when I explained that I had planned it out and my mom had helped me learn to sew, she realized her little joke had backfired and she couldn't retract the permission she had given. My DIY and craft skills were clearly in my blood, and I used that cushion the entire year. Unfortunately, my fourth-grade teacher was not as accepting of the idea of a seat cushion, and my days of hard plastic chairs resumed.

That cushion didn’t just serve me in third grade—it became a staple in our household. It transitioned to the desk chair for our typewriter, later our Radio Shack TSR-80 Color Computer, and eventually became my mom's sewing chair cushion. It’s funny how a simple project can create lasting memories and become a heavily utilized item in the home.

Looking back, I realize that this project was more than just a solution to an uncomfortable chair. It was a lesson in creativity, determination, and the value of learning new skills. It’s a reminder of how DIY projects can bring joy, practicality, and a sense of accomplishment.

I still cherish those moments with my mom and the memories we created together. The older I get, the more I appreciate the skills and values she passed on to me, just as I shared in yesterday's blog about how she would write letters. Her influence has undoubtedly shaped my love for crafting and creativity. Even now, I continue to find joy in DIY projects, and I always think of her when I embark on a new one.

I hope you enjoyed this heartfelt tribute to my mama and the beautiful legacy she left behind. If you have similar stories or memories of your loved ones, please share them in the comments below. Your feedback and shared memories help build a wonderful community. If you'd like to support this effort, your contributions are greatly appreciated. Even small gestures of support mean a lot as we continue this journey of storytelling and connection. Thank you! ❤️

My Thoughts of Cra-Z-Art Shimmer 'n Sparkle Cra-Z-Knitz Ultimate Designer Knitting Station

During the Christmas season of 2014, I spotted this loom knitting set at both Wal-Mart and Toys R Us. Given that I already own over 20 different knitting looms, I couldn't really justify spending $30 on the set. However, the lap desk that the looms fit into intrigued me. I even considered buying a plastic lap desk from Hobby Lobby and retrofitting it for my existing looms, but I haven't gotten around to it yet.
Cra-Z-Art, the company behind the set, is the same one I knew as RoseArt when I was a kid. I wasn't a fan of RoseArt crayons, and Cra-Z-Art's crayons are no different—they don't match the quality of Crayola or Sargent's. However, I've used other products from Cra-Z-Art that I enjoyed, so I figured this loom set could be hit or miss. Even with a 40% or 50% off coupon, I still couldn't justify the cost.
A member of the GoodKnitKisses Facebook group mentioned that this set was listed on for $5.95 under Warehouse Deals. The listing stated it was used and the box was damaged, but at less than $6, it wouldn't be a huge loss if it turned out to be a dud. As an Amazon Prime member, I get free 2-day shipping on most items, so I ordered the loom set. Two days later, it arrived on my doorstep.
When I opened the box, I was pleasantly surprised to find it in good condition, never opened and showing no signs of damage other than slightly dented corners from shop wear. The set was indeed new. There was more to it than I realized—the "bonus" item was a spool loom, also known as a French knitter. My excitement for the loom desk turned to disappointment when I realized it was designed to sit on a table or solid surface rather than being used as a lap desk.
The set includes two standard knitting looms: one round loom for hats and items knitted in the round, and a small "long" loom, also known as a rack loom, for flat paneled items. The molded plastic has a thin and glossy feel to it. I've read some reviews claiming it is flimsy plastic, but honestly, this is a mass-produced loom set marketed to children. It's not designed for professional or serious projects like Knifty Knitter or Martha Stewart looms. The knobs on the tops of the looms are smaller than I'd prefer, but again, this isn't meant to be a travel or on-the-go set. The looms are completely functional. The loom hook is really cool and fits my hand perfectly, unlike the standard ones that come with Darice, Yarnology, Knifty Knitter, or Boye looms.
In addition to the spool loom, the set includes four small skeins of brightly colored acrylic yarn. The yarn feels softer than Red Heart Super Saver or the acrylic yarns usually included in kids' kits. The downside is that each skein doesn't provide enough yarn for more than just a hat in each color. No problem, though—the included colors appear to match up with those available from any yarn retailer or can at least be coordinated.
My overall thoughts on this set? I'd say it's worth the original price if intended as a gift for a young child who wants to loom knit or a beginner. The yarn is fun to work with, the loom hook/tool is better than most, and the spool knitter made me feel like I got a great value. The knitting desk/storage mount is possibly the weakest link of the set, but it looks cute when all put together. One improvement I would have liked to see is a way to spin the looms as you work, instead of having to turn the entire desk/mount around.
Definitely a set to keep on hand if you have kids interested in crafting—it's fun and functional. And for those who love sharing their crafting enthusiasm, any recommendations or little gifts related to knitting are always welcome and appreciated!