Alverdisser Nähstube becomes the common thread of integration

Barntrup-Alverdissen. "Sewing makes you happy" and "Knitting is the new yoga": This has been the conviction of Petra Simonsmeier from Alverdissen for decades. The handicraft and handicraft artist now wants to share her passion every Thursday in the Alverdisser "Nähkästchen" (sewing box) in the old school, Vordere Straße 4 also on women with a migration background.

Already at the opening there was a "full house" at the open women's meeting place. The organizers thought of the handicrafts as a bridge for the integration of migrant women. says Corina Räker, employee of the "Albatros" office under the umbrella of the Barntruper association KOMM.

Specialist is available

"I spoke to neighbors in Alverdissen, who I know are good at handicrafts," explains Simonsmeier, who is available as a local contact with her specialist knowledge. She finds the working title "sewing box" appropriate: "It's about that handicrafts together, but also about getting into conversation, exchanging ideas, getting to know each other, chatting casually with each other or just getting out."

The initiators, who received funds from the state of North Rhine-Westphalia for the project financing, have other ideas for "getting out": "You could offer trips, for example to the traditional costume department of the State Museum or to the Bielefeld Laundry Museum," says Räker.

Aprons for kindergarten

Two sewing machines from the KOMM fund have already found their way to Alverdissen. According to KOMM manager Uwe Fauck, another machine and a so-called sewing machine for the special overlock stitch are still available. Cutting mat, large tables - the sewing room in the old school is well equipped and offers plenty of space for creative ideas.

Simonsmeier doesn't like hearing the word "practice leader" at all, instead looking forward to the exchange at eye level. She also brought ready-made pieces with her as a suggestion. "There are such beautiful fabrics," enthuses the handicraft lover, while holding up a mini kitchen apron. “We received fabrics from the Alverdissen and Barntrup clothing stores. We could use this as a joint project to sew these aprons for the local kindergartens," suggests Simonsmeier. But she is also open to the participants' own projects.

Dubbed the "sewing box", the Old School is not only supposed to be used for sewing. The range of possibilities for the participants should be as diverse as the trainer herself lives out her hobby "handicrafts" - and up-to-date, like the ones on the opening day tested secondary use of milk cartons shows. They become vases, pen holders or bags. Knitting in the Victorian style, crocheting - the range of possibilities is diverse. Participation in the weekly "sewing box" is free of charge. Coffee and cake are available for a small donation.

The sewing room will next be open on Thursday, March 5, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.