American Samoa residents save money gaining basic sewing skills
The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to impact the American Samoa community. The price of various goods, including food and clothing, has gone up due to a ripple effect from high fuel and shipping costs. Inflation is causing many families to experience difficulties and stretch their paychecks to make ends meet.
Providing support, the American Samoa Community College’s Agriculture, Community and Natural Resources Division conducted several basic sewing fundamentals workshops for the community through its Family and Consumer Sciences Program. Extension experts conducted three Basic Sewing Fundamentals Workshops for 42 participants from three women’s groups in the villages of Pavaiai, Mesepa and Faleniu. Each workshop lasted for three months.
The homemakers learned design elements and how to record measurements, measure and cut materials, and work with patterns. Results indicated that 95% of participants saved money by using their new sewing skills to sew clothes for the family, especially with the increased cost of living due to inflation.
Link to full statement on website: http://landgrantimpacts.tamu.edu/impacts/show/6223