Success StorySewing Project Camp
Sewing Project Camp
Author: Mary Harless
Planning Unit: Johnson County CES
Major Program: Family and Consumer Science
Plan of Work: Youth Life Skills
Outcome: Initial Outcome
Youth in our area often lack access to traditional skills such as sewing. If they do have access, it is usually limited, and supplies are not readily available. As a result, we have observed a decline in sewing projects in our county in recent years. To address these challenges, I collaborated with our FCS agent and a master clothing volunteer to organize a four-day sewing camp for local youth.
The sewing series was open to ages 9-18 and focused on essential skills such as operating sewing machines safely, reading patterns, fabric cutting and hand-sewing techniques. Each day, participants completed different projects ranging from throw pillows to pin cushions, table runners, and canvas tote bags. We provided all materials and equipment.
Thirteen youth participated in the camp, and three of their projects were selected to represent Johnson County at the 2024 Kentucky State Fair, where each received a red ribbon. Post-session surveys revealed that 80% of participants strongly agreed they felt more confident in their sewing abilities and could identify basic sewing machine parts independently. Additionally, 60% strongly agreed they felt comfortable using patterns to cut fabric and could thread a sewing machine on their own. Forty percent felt confident they could recreate at least one project from the camp. All participants also stated they were very likely to participate in more of our programming.
Feedback was very positive, with participants particularly enjoying the pillow and tote bag projects. Follow-ups indicated increased enthusiasm among participants for completing sewing projects for next year's fair.
Stories by Mary Harless
Superstar Chef Day Camp
The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Systems 2023 Community Needs Assessment identified ... Read More
Money Wise afterschool program
In Johnson County, economic uncertainty—driven by job market fluctuations and agricultural shifts—af... Read More
Stories by Johnson County CES
Walk Your Way Challenge
Johnson County Extension agent for Family and Consumer Sciences offered the Walk Your Way physical a... Read More
Building a Better Smoothie
Smoothies are popular with people of all ages, from small children all the way to older adults. They... Read More
Stories by Family and Consumer Science

Babysitting Club
Webster County is rural with a history of limited childcare options. Currently there is one privatel... Read More

Cooking Up Confidence and Culture in Henderson County
Henderson County 4-H Empowers Youth with Cooking Skills, Nutrition Knowledge, and Global AwarenessMa... Read More
© 2024 University of Kentucky, Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment