A Jonestown native won first place in the junior division of the Pennsylvania Make It With Wool contest.
Olivia Thorpe will now represent Pennsylvania at the national competition in Scottsdale, Arizona.
The state competition was held October 5 at the Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg.
Thorpe bested a field of fellow 13-16 year-olds in the competition which seeks to promote the beauty and versatility of wool products, encourage and recognize creative skills, and aid in the development of like skills.
Thorpe’s winning creation, a three-piece ensemble, included a black and red buffalo plaid coat (lined and complete with pockets and hidden closures), a black jumpsuit made of stretch wool (also lined and with an invisible zipper), and a red wool jersey top with jewel neckline and trumpet sleeves. According to 4-H Friends sewing instructor Linda Siegel, who also competed in the state contest through the Adult Division, Thorpe liked that each of the pieces could be used as a wardrobe builder.
The Adult Division was won by Julie Williams of Manheim. The state competition had been organized by Tammy Hemmerly of Laceyville, PA.
Additional categories at the competition included Preteens (ages 12 & under), Seniors, (ages 17-24), Adults (ages 25 & older), and Made for Others (any age).
The Pennsylvania Sheep & Wool Growers Association and the American Sheep Industry Association will handle the expenses for Thorpe to travel to Arizona for the national competition in January.
For winning the state competition, Thorpe received fabric, sewing books, and equipment.
The winner of the national Junior competition will receive a $2,000 scholarship from the American Sheep Industry Women and another $1,000 scholarship from Pendleton Woolen Mills.
Thorpe is the President of the 4-H Friends Club and a student at New Covenant Christian School. Her parents are Renee and Chris Thorpe.
Find more information about the local chapter of 4-H Friends at this Penn State Extension website.
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