Needlework has been proven to help the mental state. Lowering blood pressure, reducing tension, exercising creative muscles are just an example of how doing some sort of needlwork can help the human condition. This past year through classes taught by this agent in redwork, hairpin lace, knitting, needle tatting, chicken scratch embroidery, and crochet classes, approximately 146 participants have learned these skills and more
4-Hers, teens, adults and other agents have expressed their interest in learning or increasing their skills in Needlework skills. Although knitting remains the most popular 'new' skill to learn; demand for classes in all needlework is on the increase.
As a result of needlwork classes; 95 participants have learned the art of knitting. Of those, 95% finished projects and express the interest in continueing to knit and even to attend classes.
Spring 2005 marked the first 4-H State Needlework Training open for leaders and agents. Classes were taught in all disciplines of needlework--a training followed in early 06 and plans for the winter 07 training are started.