BERNINA, Sewing Down South Donate Sewing Machines to High School Program

BERNINA of America, a manufacturer of sewing and embroidery machines, recently donated to North Charleston High School (NCHS) in Charleston, South Carolina. The donation of 12 bernette 05 Academy sewing machines was organized and made possible by Craig Conover, entrepreneur, reality star, and the owner of Sewing Down South.

“I am thrilled to partner with BERNINA of America to donate new sewing machines to students at North Charleston High School,” says Conover. “For me, sewing has always been much more than just an outlet to express my creativity; it’s been a way to escape and cope with tough times. I hope these new machines will have just as big of an impact on these students.”

The machines will help build out NCHS’s new Maker’s Space, which allows students to explore different aspects of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, and math) and reading, sewing, and quilting. According to NCHS teachers, the Maker’s Space will help students develop skills to serve them once they enter the workforce.

“BERNINA of America is incredibly thankful to Craig Conover and Sewing Down South for inviting us to take part in this initiative with North Charleston High School,” adds Paul Ashworth, CEO/president of BERNINA of America. “Over the past few years, BERNINA has seen a huge uptick in the number of young people who are interested in sewing and quilting. The talent and passion these young individuals display has been inspiring to watch. We are thrilled to give these young students the opportunity to learn a new skill and unleash their creative potential. We are excited to see what their creativity yields.”

The news comes after Ashworth recently celebrated his 10th anniversary with BERNINA. Read more about this journey with the company here.