Handy Paws Handmade Betsy Ross Pillows

Betsy Ross, the seamstress in 1776, would be proud of the students in the Brewster High School Career Skills classroom. They too are sewing their own flags–in pillow form–in anticipation of the 250th anniversary of the Revolution.

So far students have sold 82 Betsy Ross flag pillows which are about 20 x 16 in size, just perfect to put on a couch or patio chair. And the stitching–all done by hand by students in the classroom is near perfect. Just about every student has completed at least one pillow.

“Dom’s sewing is like a machine. Just perfect stitching, even and straight,” said teacher Donna Schneider.

Dominic Delzio Pulver is fully in the spirit of the historical moment. As he sews he hums the tune to the National Anthem.

The classroom has their very own business–Handy Paws–with a motto “Where every stitch bears a smile,”--with business cards depicting a Brewster bear quilting and labels which they attach to each project–”handmade with Bear Stitches Rev#250.” In the past three years, they have made felting crafts, memory pillows using favorite t-shirts and flag pillows this year.

“We are teaching skills in our classroom,” said Donna, “sewing is great for fine motor skills, following directions, completing a project and attention span. And actually it’s very therapeutic.”

By the end of the period Dom has finished an entire pillow–sewed the entire perimeter. It’s obvious Dom and the other students in the classroom enjoy sewing and completing each pillow project. There is a closet full of more pillows to be sold.

The profits from the pillows will go towards their business Handy Paws (paying for sewing supplies) and equipment for Adaptive Field Day. If you are interested in purchasing a pillow for only $15.00, please see the flyer for details.

The pillows are not just a great gift for the upcoming holiday, it’s a way to support the amazing work being done in the Career Skills classroom.