In today’s society, basic life skills such as sewing has become a lost art.  “Sewing is a discipline that helps develop self-esteem, confidence, focus, patience, fine motor skills, problem solving, process thinking and visualization. The Family & Consumer Science Agent started teaching sewing classes eight years ago due to the interest of several youth wanting to learn how during the summer. Five youth participated in the series, learning the basic techniques, making a laundry bay, pillow case, and an apron. One parent recently reached out to inform me that her daughter is still sewing making doll quilts, pillows, baby quilts, and clothing items. All youth participants stated they learned a new skill.

Adult classes were started soon afterwards with learning how to use their machine. Classes have continued to be offered with individuals created mug rugs, hot plate trivets, purses, luggage bags, quilts, wall hangings and more. 

One participant, has started teaching her homemaker group how to sew and has four participants. Another participant started a community sewing group, has 6 members, holds 2 retreats per year, and as a group they have made over 100 quilts in 3 years. Another individual started making quilts for her family members as gifts for their birthday. Once each individual has received their quilt, she decided to start a home based business, quilting for hire. She has purchased a long arm quilting machine and averages at least 2 quilts a week. This business has allowed her to do what she loves while creating income for her family. While visiting the local farmers market, I noticed one of the participants from class selling produce. As I approached her stand, I noticed shopping bags for sell that were made from feed sacks. She had turned her skill learned from making purses to making shopping bags. Her husband said “thank you, for teaching her to sew. She has been recycling our feed bags and selling them.”