Fulmar Road fourth graders are taking their creativity to the next level in art classes – sewing their very own pizza slice pillows. This creative, hands-on project sparks imagination and builds on foundational sewing skills developed in earlier grades. Students began their sewing journey in third grade by crafting Pop-Tart-shaped pillows, and in fourth and fifth grade, they continue to enhance their sewing abilities with more complex projects.
“Last year’s Pop-Tart pillow was easier to make because it was a rectangle, so you just sewed straight lines,” fourth grader AJ Occhicone said. “This year, the crust curves so I think it’s going to be harder to sew.”
The process begins with students cutting their pizza slice from fabric before adding a creative twist – choosing and pinning on their favorite toppings. Some students choose toppings based on their favorite foods, while others focus on color and design, creating unique and visually appealing pillows.
“This project is something that many of our younger students look forward to,” art teacher Melissa Lindsay said. “They see the incredible sewing projects displayed during the art show at the end of the year, which sparks their interest in exploring sewing and pillow-making.”
Beyond an engaging activity, sewing teaches valuable life skills. It helps students develop fine motor skills, patience, perseverance and problem-solving abilities while fostering creativity. As students complete their pillows, they experience a great sense of pride and accomplishment.
Before starting their sewing projects, the classes discussed various careers that involve sewing, from surgeons to tailors, fishermen and clothing designers. The discussion provided students with a broader understanding of how versatile sewing can be and its real-world applications.
