Sawyer partners with hundreds of educators who are stars in their communities. From inspiring class content to engaging teaching styles, these educators are known for their enriching activities that empower both children and parents alike.

We got the opportunity to chat with Yvonne Cervantes Coleman, the founder of Common Thread Claremont, which provides sewing classes and camps to children in Los Angeles. Their classes and camps provide a welcoming space where young makers can learn practical sewing skills, make friends, and have fun. We spoke about about inspiring moments in and out of the classroom, the importance of out-of-school education, and how Sawyer helps them grow.

Thank you for taking the time to chat with us! I’d love to hear a bit more about you and why you started your business.

‍After a career as a costume designer in film, television, and theater, I retired and started a family. I discovered my love of sewing while making clothes for my daughter. When my kids' elementary school needed after school enrichment teachers, I showed up with sewing machines and never looked back.

Can you describe an inspiring moment you’ve had as an educator?

‍The first time a reluctant student finished a project and held it up with pure pride on their face, I knew this work mattered beyond the craft itself. That moment reminded me that teaching sewing is really about teaching confidence.

What’s the most rewarding thing about teaching children?

‍Watching a child who said "I can't do this" walk out the door holding something they made with their own hands is endlessly rewarding. The skill is the vehicle — the self-belief is the destination.

What’s one time a child surprised you and made your day?

‍A quiet new student carefully sewed a bright, colorful skirt and matching blouse — and a few weeks later, her mom sent a photo of her daughter wearing that outfit on "free dress" day at school, beaming from ear to ear. Her mom said she had never seen her so excited to go to school, and watching that shy girl's confidence come alive through something she made herself is exactly why we do this work.

On a similar note, what’s the funniest thing a child has done in your class?

‍Our Thursday after school crew has turned our studio mannequin into an ongoing community art project — each week, students arrive to find that someone has added a new hilarious accessory or outfit to whatever they left behind. The looks on their faces when they discover the latest addition never gets old, and honestly, that mannequin has worn some very avant-garde ensembles.

Why is after school/extracurricular enrichment and camp so important for children?

‍Unstructured creative time gives kids a place to discover who they are outside of grades and performance. Sometimes, students will bring in sketches of ideas. When a child learns to make something from nothing, it builds a kind of resilience that follows them everywhere.

How do you think children can discover their passions when they’re not in school or your programs?

‍Exposure is everything — the more a child tries different things, the more they find what lights them up. Sometimes a passion announces itself loudly, and sometimes it sneaks up quietly through a skill they didn't know they loved.