Joining fabric to make puppets
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can join fabric together with a simple running stitch.
Key learning points
- Fabrics are joined together using a running stitch.
- Fixing the start and end of a running stitch holds the thread in place.
- A running stitch creates a seam to join the templates together.
- Turning the puppet inside out allows the seam to be on the inside.
Keywords
Fray - to unravel or become worn at the edges
Seam - a row of stitches joining two pieces of fabric
Template - a shape or pattern used to help cut something to the right size
Mark out - making marks on something to show how it needs to go together
Common misconception
The whole puppet needs to be stitched.
There are other joining technqiues that can be used to join the felt together. The running stitch is one which is advised for this unit, however, staples or fabric glue / PVA can be used as an alternative.
Teacher tip
Model sewing around the puppet, moving the fabric clips as you sew. Remind children to leave the bottom section of the puppet open for their hand to fit inside. Using thick metal needles will prove easier to sew on the felt. Practising turning socks inside out will help to turn puppets inside out.
Equipment
Needles (metal or plastic, but test on felt before lesson), embroidery thread, felt pieces joined together, scissors, fabric clips, tape
Content guidance
Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
4 Questions
Q1.What is a template?
Q2.To cut out a template, what could you use?
Q3.What do you need to sew?
Q4.What is special about a running stitch?
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Match the keywords to their meaning.
to unravel or become worn at the edges
a row of stitches joining two pieces of fabric
a shape or pattern used to help cut something to the right size
Q2.By turning the stitched puppet inside out, what do we hide?
Q3.When we mark out something, we ...
Q4.What could you use to hold fabric together to sew?
To help you plan your 1 design and technology lesson on: Joining fabric to make puppets, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 1 design and technology lesson on: Joining fabric to make puppets, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 1 design and technology lessons from the Templates in textiles: hand puppets unit, dive into the full primary design and technology curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.