5th Grade Pocket Weaving

The much anticipated pockets!  When I went through this project for the first time myself, I didn't really believe that it would turn out as great as what it did.  You can imagine the excitement for fifth grade when they get to actually weave a unique and personal pocket or pouch that includes a flap and button to close it.  This is not a quick project but instead one where hard work totally pays off.

How it comes together...
Day 1: All about measuring and cutting.  Everyone creates their own loom to weave on.  On day one we create the loom and then wrap it with white string.  The sting will keep the whole thing together when we take it off of the loom.
Days 2-4: Weaving, Weaving and yet more Weaving.  It is super important to know the ABAB pattern to weave a strong pocket, and to keep the yarn scrunched and tight.  Loose yarn or the wrong will make for a weak pocket that may have holes in it.
Days 4-5: The magic!  We get to take the weaving off of the loom and see it transform into a nifty pocket!  This is the day that creates a lot of nervous energy.  It is the time to see if the pocket will be strong or weak.  Once the pocket is off of the loom-more excitement-digging through and picking out the perfect button.

Weavings on the loom.

Working on the 'flap' of the pocket. 

Finished pocket!

You should ask your child about this whole project.  It takes a lot of time and thought.  Many of us become better critical thinkers and problem solvers throughout this project.  You would be amazed to see how many questions there are the first day and how few there are by the end.  At the end most of the students can help classmates and can become teacher assistants.  It is great to see!

I'm always amazed with how great these turn out and all of the things we learn along the way.  I also am proud of myself this year for finally organizing yarn in a manageable way for everyone to be able to pull, measure, and cut their own yarn.

Yarn Station

I upcycled some crayon boxes by cutting slits in the front of the box.  The skein of yarn is safely tucked inside with the tail hanging on the outside... genius!