In our life of technology, we lose track of how things are made and where things come from. A skill that is often looked over is sewing. Sewing provides the opportunity for young people to experience a sense of accomplishment associated with completing a project. It also provides an opportunity for youth to understand textiles, construction techniques, design principles as well as develop eye/hand coordination. “Sewing is a discipline that helps develop self-esteem, confidence, focus, patience, fine motor skills, problem solving, process thinking and visualization. Additionally, sewing encourages creative ability.”

The 2017-2018 school year marked the 10th year Martin County 4-H has teamed up with the Home Economics Department at Sheldon Clark High School to form sewing clubs. The clubs are leader led by the Home Economics teacher. 4-H provides all the teaching materials and supplies, while the teacher provides all the education. Students learn to use a sewing machine and do needle work by hand. Without this partnership, the high school would not have the funds or opportunities to have these educational experiences. Once again with our high school sewing clubs and our junior club we had over 100 participants.  

A major component we added this year was turning our work into community service projects.  We started small by making pillows for our local nursing home.  We have future plans to make community service the driving force behind our clubs.

Evaluation is done through grading the work of the students. Some students have skills that advance through the year, others are encouraged to work harder to refine their skill level.

Students recognize the economic impacts sewing can create. Not only through industry but saving money for their families. After seven years, behaviors and attitudes have started to change about the textile industry. We have a more gender diverse audience in our classes. These factors have created a long term outcome.