A middle school sewing project that might be used for years to come is a simple book bag. Using a basic pattern, students can create an individual bag made from materials of their choice. This project can fulfill the tastes of both sexes. It will teach cutting and seam sewing. For additions to the project, let the students select appliques to add to the completed bag. School-related items -- such as team logos -- or student initials might be added.
Creating a head scarf might be the right project for a middle school sewing class. Basic patterns require the cutting and hemming of a triangle; they also require the addition of a rolled strap for a tie. This beginning project might work on pattern adjusting. Males may wish for a larger triangle to completely cover the head. Females may desire a very small triangle to cover only the back of the head or a pony tail. Let each student recreate the basic pattern to suit her own project.
For young or beginning sewers, inset sleeves and collars are advanced tasks. This might eliminate the ability to sew shirts. There are, however, patterns for the creation of tops without these skills. Two-piece shirt patterns only require students to cut the material, hem it and sew the seams. These extremely plain shirts might be made decorative by a female student using appliques or decorative material. Males may wish to use jersey material to create a gym-style shirt. Iron-on letters or numbers might encourage interest in the project.
Early sewing projects for middle school students can include pillows. The creation of pillows may be as simplistic as four seams and stuffing, or it might become a more advanced project with circular or obtuse shapes. The project might include adding sewn-in ruffles around the edges for advanced students. The size and shape should be left up to the student to decide. Encourage the use of colors and materials that will match their bedrooms or team colors as a show of school spirit.