Y6 used a sewing machine to create these pencil cases.

Year 6 delved into the history of the pencil case before they made their own as a DT project.  They learnt about the first pencil case patent, and how writing implements were stored before this too.  A timeline of the advances made in pencil cases was drawn up.  

Different designs of pencil case were evaluated and discussions on materials were had and the suitability of some materials over others.  It was decided that material needed to be hard wearing and easy to wash.  It was important to us all to reuse material so some children brought in old clothing or bedding that was of a suitable material.  Others used material from the local scrap store, where buttons were also purchased.

Once children had decided on their design, they measured the implements to go into their pencil cases and checked the design criteria of size and capacity; material and durability; portability and convenience; protection, and design and style (aesthetics).

Once the pencil case had been designed, the children set about cutting out and learning to use a sewing machine.  This proved quite a skill and inspired some of our children to dig out their parents sewing machines or ask for one for Christmas.  Buttons were then sewn on too.  

The last part of the design process was to evaluate the pencil cases and we were all very pleased with them.

The biggest test has been that they are used in class every day.  So far, they are holding up well and proving to be really useful in the classroom.

Please see the Computing page for links with 3D printing of pencil pots.