In response to multiple requests to learn to quilt, the Bullitt County Family & Consumer Science Extension Agent offered a monthly beginning quilting program.  The agent thought it would be successful with a few of our local clientele taking advantage of the opportunity, but she was surprised to find the reach of the class to be double what she had anticipated bringing in clientele that did not frequent the Extension Service. The sewing community is an easy way to make friends and seek advice from people that enjoy the same hobby as you, so even those who were not beginners joined the program.  Sewing is a single focus task, which reduces the likelihood of negative thoughts and can help fight anxiety and depression while allowing for creativity. Of the participants in the classes,

The following data is from the evaluations of the 12 participants: 

5% were new to Extension programming.

50% of participants reported being new to quilting or have been involved for less than 5 years. 

95% reported learning a new technique at each or one monthly program.

25% stated they had never cut fabric for quilts with a rotary cutter, ruler and cutting mat.  After the lesson on using this equipment, one participant exclaimed, “Wow, this just made my life so much simpler! I have the equipment, but I never knew how to use it.  Now I can get things done so much faster and more precisely! (smile)”  

Other comments from class participants when asked what they learned: 

-"I'm am new to quilting, so everything is new and I am just learning- learning alot!"

- If I only came for this one program, it would make all the difference to me and the quality of quilts I make from what I have learned tonight!  (experienced quilter)

-" I thought I would never get this quilt done, but with the help of you all, I am finishing it! I cant wait to give it to (grandson) as a graduation present.”  

After the seclusion of the pandemic, the emotional/physical references in comments mentioned by participants included: calmness, patience, happiness, enjoyment and inspiration from seeing other’s projects, feelings of comradery and a shared hobby, a group to talk with, and excitement in anticipation for each night of the quilting class. The monthly quilting classes will continue through 2023 until the blocks are made and pieced together for a quilt.  In the mean time, the participants have shared over 51 other quilting projects they have completed along with the block of the month.