Many studies have shown that sewing is not only a productive life skill and hobby, but it can also be a way to manage stress, have meaningful social connections, and improve mental activity. An interest was expressed by the Breathitt County community about learning to sew and improve stress management, mental activity, and meaningful social connections.

The Family and Consumer Science Agent and the Breathitt County Homemaker’s Association President provided a two-day beginner sewing camp to the community to learn the basics of using a sewing machine. Sixteen participants showed interest in learning to sew and about using a sewing machine. During the first day participants learned the basics of a sewing machine (how to thread the needle, how to thread a bobbin, sewing machine parts, and how to sew a nine-patch pattern.) The second day participants learned to maintain a sewing machine and how sewing can help manage stress, improve mental activity, and enhance meaningful social connections with others.

 All sixteen participants completed the two-day sewing camp. After the program ended an exit survey was completed, which showed 100% of the participants had an increased knowledge of using a sewing machine and understanding of managing stress and building those meaningful connections with others. One participant stated, “because of the beginner sewing camp I’ve connected with new people and have created a sense of belonging and have gotten a lot of encouragement that I sewed my first quilt at the age of 79.” Of the sixteen participants, six of them have joined a group that formed after the program which met once a month to sew on their own projects and continue their meaningful connections.