The problem

In schools today, youth are not always taught how to sew. Sewing is a useful life skill that is practical for everyone to know. Whether you need to sew on a button, patch a hole in your jeans, or make a quilt; sewing is a fun and useful skill. 

The educational program response

When I realized there was an interest and a need to teach kids how to sew, I set out to start a 4-H sewing club. I brought this idea to my FCS council and they provided the funds to buy our office 4 sewing machines to be used for youth and adult sewing classes! 

The participants/target audience

We advertised the 4-H sewing club to youth age 9-18 who were interested in sewing! No prior skills needed. We had an informational meeting and talked to the kids about what projects they were interested in learning how to sew. From there we started meeting once a day every week for the kids to be able to establish their basic sewing skills. Once they learned how to use the sewing machine and sew a straight line, they made a pillow case for their first project. Since the club has started we have 9 youth that have learned to start sewing! All the youth that have joined the club did not know how to use sewing machines and have learned while being in the club. So far the kids have learned to sew a pillowcase, chapstick holder, bowl cozy, oven mitt, zippered pouch, tote bag, drawstring bag, bucket hat, Christmas ornament, and a stocking! The club continues to meet twice a month and make projects based on the kids interests. One of the goals of our club this year is to have the kids make a project to enter into the Kentucky State Fair. 

Other partners (if applicable)

Our office partners regularly with the Laurel Gorge Heritage Center and their quilting groups. One of the quilting teachers I got to know at the Laurel Gorge volunteered to be my 4-H sewing club leader. She has done a phenomenal job and she is an excellent teacher. The director of the Laurel Gorge Heritage center, Christy Lewis, continues to help our sewing club with program materials and fundraisers. 

Program impact or participant response.

Since the start of this club, we have had new kids join 4-H. We have also had kids that historically just participate in one 4-H club or program branch out and try something new! Throughout this club I have also been able to involve new 4-Hers and their parents in other 4-H and extension programs like 4-H Teen Leadership Academy and Ag council.