🧵✨ Fundraiser: Machines for the Makers

Why We’re Raising Funds

At Needle & Thread Sewing Academy, our sewing machines are at the heart of everything we do — teaching creativity, patience, confidence, and real-life skills to dozens of children (and a few brave adults!) every single week.

Our students sew hard. And while we love that enthusiasm, it means our machines take a beating.

Where We Are Right Now

We originally planned to purchase Bernette Academy 05 machines, and while they are excellent machines, we’ve learned through hands-on classroom experience that they are not the best fit for all of our students, especially our younger sewists.

The current speed control options rely heavily on foot-pedal control, which can be challenging for little feet — and even some older students. Our goal is to find machines that allow students to sew safely, confidently, and successfully, without frustration.

Because of that, we are actively researching and testing other classroom-appropriate machine options, including models with better speed control and student-friendly features.

The Need

Our existing classroom machines are already showing wear after just six months of heavy use — slowing down, squeaking, and requiring repairs that cost more than replacement. Replacing machines every few months simply isn’t sustainable.

What is sustainable is investing in the right machines — ones designed for teaching, durability, and young hands.

What Your Donation Supports

Funds raised through the Machines for the Makers campaign will be used to:

Purchase new, student-appropriate classroom sewing machines

Invest in machines with improved speed control and safety features

Purchase essential accessories (feet, bobbins, needles, maintenance supplies)

Ensure our students learn on reliable equipment that builds confidence — not frustration

Why Now

We have applied for grant funding, including through United Way, but those timelines extend into 2026.

Our students — and our current machines — can’t wait that long.

This fundraiser allows us to move forward now, while making thoughtful, informed decisions about the best equipment for our classroom.

How You Can Help

Every donation — big or small — helps us create a safer, more supportive learning environment for young makers in our community.

You’re not just buying machines. You’re investing in:

Confidence

Skill-building

Creativity

And kids who learn that mistakes can be fixed (just like seams 💚)

For Businesses

All business donors will receive a public shout-out on our social media platforms in appreciation of their community support.

Tax-Deductible Giving

Needle & Thread Sewing Academy is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

All donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.

Receipts and EIN information are available upon request.

🧵 Every stitch matters. Every dollar helps us keep creativity — and confidence — growing.