Sewing is an important life skill that is often overlooked in modern times. The pandemic brought sewing back into the lives of many as families either couldn't get out to shop for clothing or because of limited supplies.  Many parents recognized the need for thier youth to learn this skill.  Sewing is also important as it helps develop hand and eye coordination, improves critical  thinking and is often used as a creative outlet or form of relaxation. 

The Hardin County 4-H Sewing project is led by Master Clothing Volunteers that have years of experience and have valuable insight for beginners as well as more advanced youth.  Those volunteers were also assisted by a new volunteer to our county who was previously a 4-Her that completed numerous sewing projects and contests over the years. This volunteer provided great insight and connected to the youth very well. 

The program is held at the Extension Office in the project room which houses 19 sewing machines.  These machines are filled by youth from September 1 through the end of May as these youth come back weekly to learn skills and complete their projects.  

Volunteers logged more than 200 hours in assisting youth in this project and and more than 1200 hours were logged by 4-Hers working on thier projects in the 2023-2024 program year.

Their year long efforts were celebrated and showcased in the Hardin County 4-H Fashion Revue held in May at the Extension Office.  Members that participated in the Fashion Revue were able to model their outfits or other creations for the audience, judges also met with the participants individually to ask questions about their projects. Members were awarded with ribbons and all participants received a mini sewing kit for thier committment and hard work in this project.

Youth gained skills and knowledge in cutting patterns, following instructions, sewing techniques and gained confidence with the completion of their projects and were encouraged to enter thier projects in the county fair.