Simple sewing techniques
I know how to do a running stitch.
Simple sewing techniques
I know how to do a running stitch.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Switch to our new teaching resources now - designed by teachers and leading subject experts, and tested in classrooms.
These resources were created for remote use during the pandemic and are not designed for classroom teaching.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- A running stitch is a good way to join fabric together.
- Weave fabric is a good material to practice a running stitch.
- When starting to sew, a needle has to be threaded.
Keywords
Sewing - to make stiches in fabric using a needle and thread
Stitches - a loop of thread made using a needle
Thread - a thin piece of string used to sew
Joining - ways to join two things together correctly
Common misconception
Children should use cotton to sew.
Using embroidery thread means that it is easier for smaller hands to use and it is also more resilient. It can be used with larger eyed needles too.
To help you plan your year 1 design and technology lesson on: Simple sewing techniques, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 1 design and technology lesson on: Simple sewing techniques, 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.
Equipment
Hole punched card (card, single hole punch), laces, plastic needles, embroidery thread, thick fabric with holes in, scissors, embroidery hoops.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Prior knowledge starter quiz
4 Questions
materials that have been made by humans, such as plastic
materials that come from natural sources, such as cotton or leather
a material used to make clothes, blankets, curtains, etc
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions

to make stitches in fabric using a needle and thread
a loop of thread made in fabric using a needle
a thin piece of string used to sew
ways to join two things together correctly