4th graders began by learning about fabric and quilting traditions around the world, with an emphasis on the applique art from Benin, Africa. I'm into birds this year and right now owls are on everything from ads to tote bags. Choosing a theme kept students on task and I was able to break the project into steps. We discussed owl legends from Greek mythology to the Native Americans. Each student began by making an owl pattern out of old manila folders. We looked at images of real and crafted owls for inspiration.
While the students drew and cut out patterns I chose fabrics and ironed on “Steam a Seam” to the back. When it was time to cut out fabric I taught the students how to trace their patterns and use the fabric wisely. (Not in the middle!) By using “Steam a Seam” every scrap of fabric could be used to make small eyes, stars, moons; even hats or bows! The fabric pieces were stored in plastic bags between class periods. When the students were finished cutting out their owls they peeled the backing and ironed it to a piece of fabric. They loved using the iron! Their original paper pattern pieces were glued to cardstock and used to make a series of collagraph prints.
