Success StoryYouth Learn Important Life Skills through Beginning Sewing



Youth Learn Important Life Skills through Beginning Sewing

Author: Brittany Osborne

Planning Unit: McCracken County CES

Major Program: 4-H Family and Consumer Science Core Curriculum

Plan of Work: Acquiring Life Skills

Outcome: Initial Outcome

According to Dissertation research submitted by Iowa State University, "The subject of clothing relates to almost every other subject taught, such as history (how political conditions were an influence on fashion), physics (how sewing machines worked), chemistry (how fabric 16 can protect against heat or cold, microscopic examination of fibers, textile testing), physiology (how the body moves in clothes), as well as drawing and design." 

This year, McCracken County 4-H 



There’s increased need for financial stability in today’s economy. County residents desire the necessary skills to enhance their quality of life. The McCracken County Cooperative Extension service strives to meet the needs of the community weekly. This was done by offering the 4-H Intermediate Sewing Club. Participants have access to knowledgeable volunteers who provide one-on-one sewing instruction. The focus of this report is the each member of the Intermediate Club has transitioned through the 4-H sewing program. Each of the six participants have successfully completed the first 2 levels of the McCracken County 4-H sewing program. Within the advancement of each level, youth’s skill set builds upon the previous level. By the 3rd level participants were able to correctly operate a sewing machine, constructs skirts, pants, shirts, duffle bags, and a list of other items listed in the 4-H Sewing Curriculum. This enthusiastic groups’ skill set has grown, and they’ve requested the club meet year round. Participants have advanced to working on sergers, and expanding their knowledge in proper equipment usage. All participants have agreed to return in the fall where their knowledge of sewing will grow deeper, and they will continue to strengthen their relations with positive adult volunteers. The purpose of this club is to equip youth with the skills needed to gain future employment, improves self-esteem and self-sufficient residents that will ultimately positively contribute to the community. Dedication throughout the past 3 years has been exhibited from these youth, which is a skill that will be very useful throughout life. There are many positive impacts this club has on participants.






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