By: Gillian Knight
The national stage of the Make It With Wool competition recently saw a rising star emerge from Ohio.
Valerie Knight, a 16-year-old sophomore at Riverside High School, brought her exceptional talent in fashion and sewing to Reno, Nevada, and returned home with an impressive collection of accolades.
National Make It With Wool is a prestigious organization dedicated to recognizing delegates from various states across America who demonstrate outstanding skills in fashion design, garment construction, and professional presentation.
Competitors are judged on their ability to create garments using wool fabrics, showcasing their mastery of various techniques and design principles.
Valerie, representing the state of Ohio in the Junior category, captivated the judges with her meticulous craftsmanship and artistic vision.
Her dedication and skill were evident as she swept multiple awards, including the highly coveted “Best Construction” honor, recognizing her flawless sewing techniques and garment integrity.
She also secured “Best Embroidery”, highlighting her intricate and artistic embellishments, and proudly earned the title of “1st Runner Up” in the national competition.
Valerie says it has been a great experience:
:Beyond the competitive arena, Valerie’s experience at the national event was enriched by a series of illuminating sessions with industry presenters.
These educational opportunities delved into a wide array of topics, expanding her knowledge of various wools and other fabrics, evolving styles in clothing, the intricacies of costume design, advanced sewing techniques, and even the specialized world of athletic wear designed for the Olympics.
Valerie’s achievements at the National Make It With Wool competition not only bring immense pride to Riverside High School and the state of Ohio but also firmly establish her as a promising talent to watch in the upcoming fair season and 4-H fashion competitions.
*Gillian Knight is a student reporter and a senior at Riverside High School.*
