And the sewers are back! After learning how to sew a simple apron pattern at clothing fun day, the 4-H’ers were ready to take their skills to the next level.

At the 4-H sewing camp the 4-H’ers learned how to sew a sun dress or coordinating summer tops and bottoms. Camp was held this year on Tuesday, June 16th through Thursday June 18th.

To construct the garments the 4-H’ers were required to layout the fabric and patterns properly, cut the fabric into the correct shapes, read sewing instructions (which isn’t as easy as you’d think), align the pieces correctly, sew them together, and iron hems open.

The 4-H’ers also got to use a serging machine. A serging machine preps the edge of the fabric to be hemmed. I was particularly fascinated by this device; having learned how to prep the hem the long, and harder way.

After the two days of camp I’d seen the 4-H’ers outfits come from a couple yards of fabric to a fully finished project. The results were wonderful and I’m sure the 4-H’ers are proud of their accomplishments.

Sewing is not as easy as you would think. Clothing found in stores is machine made in mass quantities in a matter of minutes. Making clothes yourself is a much more challenging task. Material, print, outfit pattern, and the overall construction that goes into making something is hard work.

Tuesday, June 30th the 4-H’ers gathered in the Rylander Library to model their outfits, either hand-made or store bought, in the 4-H Fashion Show. 4-H’s Top Models were Erin Ratliff, Marissa Coffman, Sara Watkins, Emily Esquivel, Jennifer Watkins, and Elizabeth Bryant.

Helping the girls in place of Tyra Banks was Ms. Dora Miller. Ms. Miller taught the girls the importance of how a model carries herself. She must look poised and confident with a polite smile. A positive attitude is always a plus on the judges’ score sheets.

Ms. Miller taught some modeling basics related to posing and walking. It is important to chart out where you are going to walk and stop and strike a pose, be able to pose on spot, to take your time modeling, know about your garments in advance, and walk quietly while wearing flip flops.

After the 4-H’ers had the tips and tricks of the game in their minds, the show began with and introduction from Melanie Hedley. The show began and was commentated by Sara Hedley.

After the wonderful ladies strutted and posed their outfits for the crowd, it was time for the awards. Each 4-H’er in the Fashion show was awarded a handbag and fabric for the 4-H’ers to create something new.

Congratulations to all the 4-H’ers who participated in the 4-H Clothing Fun Day, 4-H Sewing Camp, and 4-H Fashion Show!

What you guys are doing is difficult stuff. Making it yourself really helps you appreciate the days when people didn’t have any choice but to make their goods by hand.

We are so proud of your hard work and look forward to seeing you keep up the hobby.