What is it?

The Oh Sew Student Market Day is an opportunity for students to sell their makes made in or outside the studio. Students will be able to stretch their sewing muscles at home, and practise starting and finishing projects on their own. They'll also dip their toes into entrepreneurship to earn 100% of their profits.

When and where is it?

I have settled on Saturday June 24th at the Priests Rd. Market in Tramore. Beside the Holy Cross church playground. About 9am to ~noon, or whenever students sell out.

How much is it?

There is no fee for students participation. There is also no fee for the participating in the market. However, any supplies for their projects would by provided by the student. And I'll be there to support the students and put on a stern face to prevent price haggling!

Does my child HAVE to do it?

Participation is 100% voluntary, and not required. Whoever can make it will be welcome. And if your child isn't selling but around on the day, I'm sure their classmates would love to see them. Providing they keep to this rule I heard this week, "Can no one buy all my stuff and then sell it for a higher price, please?!" 

If your family is away at the time, don't worry, there may be another opportunity in the future. This is a small first attempt of the market, so if the students are happy with the experience we may look at doing similar again, perhaps even for Christmas.

 My child would like to join, but we don't own a sewing machine!

I am planning on loaning out a sewing machine to students without one. However, I will not be in your home to help rethread so I've let the students know that will have to demonstrate ability to wind a bobbin, rethread, and insert a bobbin before taking it home.

What sort of things should my child make?

The world is their oyster, really. Things we have done in class may be simpler, but as long as they can manage, whatever sewing crafts they would like to sell and have the supplies for. I do ask that the finishing is neat and tidy and that they do their best. It is much easier to sell 3 perfect small items than 50 hastily done ones!

I would recommend those students who are able to should work on 2-3 'larger' projects. As I explained to them, they can sell a large item (apron, zipper make up bag, for €20 to €30 and while it would be a lot of work to make one, they are more likely to sell 2 or 3 and make much more money than trying to sell 30 small items at €2.

I have a Pinterest page with lots of free projects and sewing patterns. The 'Kids CAN sew this, too' board is where I have put some suitable projects for younger and newer students. 

Themes to consider for small items:

Waterford GAA colours, blue & white - key chains, lanyards, scrunchies (colours can apply to anything!)

Baby items - Burp clothes, bibs, soother clips 
Pets -bandanas, collar ties and bow ties, collars

Your support at home is paramount in this. That can be checking in on their progress, helping to come up with ideas or helping to organise their pieces, (or playdates with sewing friends).  You're also welcome to channel your inner Kay by circling them holding a seam ripper while humming the Jaws tune... but that may be more fun for you than helpful!

Volunteers during the market day would be a huge help! As it is your child's first market, they may be nervous and want you nearby anyhow. However, if any parents can spare a hour or two to help with things like SuperValu toilet run escorts, math and change giving, and keeping an eye when things are busy it would be hugely appreciated. (I know Saturdays are a busy family day, so no pressure!)

 
If anyone has any market tips (or have a contact with the church, looking for access to the church green.) please shout! I am all ears as I would love for this to be a great experience for everyone.