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 state fair, where each received a red ribbon. Post-session surveys revealed that 80% of participants strongly agreed that they felt more confident in their sewing abilities and could identify basic sewing machine parts independently. Additionally, 100% strongly agreed that they could reload a bobbin without assistance. All participants expressed confidence in machine threading, using patterns to cut fabric and felt confident that they could recreate at least one project that they made during the camp. Additionally, all participants 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.