Extension Agent for 4-H
Have you ever wondered how your grandmother crocheted that scarf for you or embroidered the pillowcases? Have you seen all the trendy crocheted and knitted fashion scarves? Have you looked at the quilt on your mothers bed and wondered how it was made? The fiber arts project will embrace how to make these things.
Fiber arts is defined as the practical skills passed down from preceding generations that were developed to provide basic family needs, such as apparel, home furnishings or decorations.
There is 4-H curriculum that can be purchased for anyone interested in the fiber arts project. Here is a breakdown of what youth can learn and do in this project:
Crochet
Learn single, double and many other stitches
Advance to hair pin lace
Knitting
Casting on, knit stitch and purl stitch
Needle Arts
Embroidery, cross-stitch, needle point, candle wicking, crewel, lace-work, and applique
Patchwork, Quilting
Learn to stitch, tie and design quilts
Rug Making
Do latch hook and braided rugs
Spinning
Make a hand spindle and prepare wool fibers
Weaving
Learn parts of a loom and figure yarn needs for specific items
Ethnic Arts
Explore and share your favorite
Macrame
Do ornamental knotting
Learn terms, tools, techniques and cords
In addition to the curriculum, youth are also offered the opportunity to attend project meetings held by volunteers. Each year, youth are able to demonstrate the hard work that has been spent by participating locally at the county fair and depending on age and placing, the Kansas State Fair.
The fiber arts project is a great opportunity for youth to learn important life skills. For more information about this project, contact Jennifer K. Terrell, 4-H Youth Development for K-State Research and Extension Southwind District at jkterrell@ksu.edu or 620-244-3826.
