A clinical study conducted by the Home Sewing Association (HSA) revealed that women who sew — both skilled as well as novice sewers–experienced a drop in heart rate, blood pressure and perspiration rate when compared women who participated in other leisure-time activities. Sewers claimed to feel better after engaging in their favorite activity. Sewing is an activity that is often enjoyed by highly creative and productive people, yet can actually be used as a stress-buster with health benefits for mind and body. 

With sewing becoming more popular and a means to generate income, Family and Consumer Science agents coordinated its 12^th annual “It’s Sew Fine” Sewing Expo, providing hands-on, experiential learning programs.  The Kenton County Cooperative Extension Agent for Family and Consumer Sciences served on the planning committee for this 3-day workshop, and taught one of the learning sessions to 37 participants. 

Over the years the program has grown to now attract participants from 36 counties and 7 states. The Sewing Expo attracts college educated women (63%; 19% had some college) aged from 25-65+, and a majority (57%) belong to one or more organizations who address issues related to clothing construction, textiles, or fiber arts. Sewing provides a sense of accomplishment as they make gifts for others and their home. Of those who sew to earn money (22.8%), a majority (69%) make less than $1000, while others (15%) make over $20,000 in annual income.

Additional information from a program evaluation has shown us this past year 95% of participants increased their sewing skills and increased knowledge directly because of the expo.  Out of the participants, 47% plan to teach others what they learned and 18% plan to use what they learned to make items to sell as a source of income.  Some participants use this event to assist them in their profession and business. 

During the summer of 2017, Kenton County hosted a FCS summer intern.  This UK student from the Textiles Department shared that her high school teacher attended this sewing expo and brought back projects/ lessons to the classroom where she, as a student, developed an interest in sewing which has now grown into pursuing a college degree and future work aspirations in the field. 

Also of note was a story shared by one the instructors who teaches at the sewing expo.  She shared with us that one participant told her she had considered committing suicide, but after attending her quilt workshop she had a positive outlook on life and was not considering those thoughts anymore.  The importance of sewing as a creative outlet, income producer, and source of great health benefits is shown. It certainly made a difference for that individual.