Studies indicate that sewing is not only a productive hobby and life skill, but it can also reduce stress and increase an individual’s self-worth. The Jefferson County 4-H Agents, 4-H assistants, County Master Clothing Volunteers, and County volunteers planned and delivered a sewing Day Camp.  This program was offered to those who may have attended 4-H sewing programs in the past and were intermediate sewers.  The youth refreshed their sewing skills, sewing machine functions and use, textile construction, and recycling of material.   

Participants learned the importance of and how to utilize multiple stitches, work with knit, sew on curves, and create a design on their own. 100% of the youth reported that they felt their skills were strengthened. The youth represented multiple schools and areas within Jefferson County. There were 5 intermediate sewers, 1 Master Clothing Volunteer, and 5 4-H Volunteers.

Camp participants mastered this program by successfully making a shaped pillow and creating their own design with material that was on hand.   The material was donated by local volunteers.    The creation of the pillow opened the discussion of sustainability, by using donated material.  

The 4-Hers were proud of their strengthened sewing skills that would last a lifetime.  Upon conclusion of the day camp, 100% of the campers felt comfortable with utilizing a sewing machine, understood the basics of sewing patterns and directions, and felt encouraged and comfortable to sew a project on their own.