The rhythmic hum of a sewing machine, the gentle pull of thread through fabric, and the soft rustle of textiles create a meditative symphony that soothes the soul. In the quiet intimacy of a sewing corner, time seems to slow, leaving only the satisfying precision of stitches and the growing artistry beneath one’s fingertips. For many, sewing is more than a craft, it’s a retreat and a moment to embrace calm amid life’s chaos.
That’s true for Chicago Ridge resident Barbara Lovejoy, who first tried sewing in high school but found it challenging at the time due to being left-handed. Lovejoy recently joined the sewing club at the Chicago Ridge Public Library, 10400 S. Oxford Ave., rekindling her passion for needle and thread.
“I was excited to learn how to do different stitches on a sewing machine,” Lovejoy said. “I find sewing extremely relaxing, and it gives me time to focus on myself.”
The club meets on Wednesday evenings and currently has 10 active members, ranging from teens to senior citizens. It is led by the library’s youth services librarians, Salimah Boufath and Paula Johnson.
Lovejoy said both instructors are very patient and considerate, with both sewing enthusiasts and beginners.
Youth services librarian Salimah Boufath said that is for good reason.
“I feel the sewing classes are a great opportunity for the people in the community to gather and sew together, whether they are beginners or experienced,” Boufath said. “They will be able to make their own creations and learn new sewing tips from the instructor or other experienced seamstresses. Teens will be able to experiment with a new hobby and get inspired to try a new hands-on activity. It’s also a great way to meet and connect with new people.”
The library began offering sewing classes last year, drawing consistent interest.
“What makes our sewing classes unique is patrons get to check out their own sewing machines for three weeks so they can take it home, practice how to use it, and work on their own sewing projects,” Boufath said. “I personally think the sewing classes were a great addition to our library. People can learn a new skill they’ve always wanted to learn and get to check out a sewing machine, which is a great new addition to our collection.”
Youth services librarian Paula Johnson provides all of the sewing materials and equipment for the classes. Patrons have full access to sewing machines and can complete a variety of projects, including aprons, bags, coin pouches, and headbands.
Whether you’re a seasoned seamstress or threading a needle for the first time, the sewing club at Chicago Ridge Public Library offers a welcoming space to stitch creativity and community together.
Patrons can sign up for classes on the library’s website at www.chicagoridgelibrary.org.
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