According to research by Iowa State University, "The subject of clothing relates to all most every other subject taught, such as

history, physics, chemistry, physiology, and design.  Additional research by the Home Sewing Association also shows that sewing fosters

self esteem in youth along increasing the child's ability make decisions and think through processes in a step-by-step manner.

During the first two weeks of May 2021, the Extension Agent for FCS and the FCS teacher at the Rockcastle County High School cooperated

to provide the 23 students in the "Essentials of FCS" class a unit on sewing basics.  The students each sewed a basic apron.  Students chose 

their fabrics and whether they wanted a half apron or bibbed apron.  19 of the 23 students filled out evaluations following the completion of

the apron.  Half of the students who filled out evaluations had sewn during 4-H sewing projects.  3 students had never sewn on a sewing machine

before.  When asked what was the most important thing they learned 15 of the students said that they learned how to correct mistakes when sewing; 

13 said that they had learned that sewing requires doing work in order and step-by-step.  Students were asked to write their thoughts related to

 sewing.  some of their thoughts include:  "When you are sewing you have to focus." (JM, 16 years old)  "I liked finishing my apron and being able to

 use something that I have made." (AA, 15)  "After this project I really want to buy my own sewing machine.'' (EM, 15)