It's time to dig out that sewing machine from the back of your closet and get to work. May 13th is known as Sewing Machine Day. It is the one day a year where it is OK to push everything down on your to-do list and just sew. You can even make it a family event. Gather your family together and make several projects throughout the day. It is a great educational experience for them and a fun time for you.

Below are four projects you can create that will be enjoyable for the entire family.

1. Pillowcase

Creating a pillowcase is a fast and simple project. It doesn't require much sewing skill to be able to succeed at this craft, and you can heavily involve all of your children. Take a trip to the fabric store and let your children pick out their own fabric. Then, take the time to teach them how to use a sewing machine. Teach them the different parts of the device. Then, with your help, teach them how to sew a few straight lines and create their pillowcase. Allowing them to choose their own material and letting them do most of the work gives them a sense of pride and ownership. And you may even have them asking for more projects they can do.

2. Pajamas

Sewing pajama pants is one of the easiest sewing projects you can complete when making clothes. Once again, let your children choose their own material. You can then take the time to teach them how to follow and cut out a pattern. The more they learn about sewing and the more practice they receive, the more comfortable they will be when you create larger projects.

3. Hand puppets

With a little bit of material and a few googly eyes, you can create an entire family of hand puppets. Younger children will enjoy designing these puppets and putting the finishing touches on the craft. This sewing project can be as advanced or basic as you desire. You can make an extravagant puppet with fancy clothes, or create an item with a few stitches and a marker-drawn face.

4. Dress-up Costume

If you want to try something a little more difficult and time-consuming, you can create a dress-up costume for your children. Whether they wish to be a pirate or a princess, there are dozens of patterns you can choose from that will match your skill level. This project doesn't allow your children to be as involved as the previous sewing crafts, but they will have fun playing in the outfit once it is complete. If you dedicate a large block of time throughout the day, you can get the outfit finished in no time.

So, dust off your sewing machine and get to work. You don't have to make an extravagant project to celebrate Sewing Machine Day. In fact, if you don't have much time, do a little mending, sew up any holes and fix the hems in your family's clothes. Or, just take the time to teach your children a little about sewing. Let them use the sewing machine and make a few stitches on a scrap piece of fabric. Turn this day into an educational experience and one that will make them excited to learn something new.