CREATIVITY is the key in arts and crafts; while we offer guidelines and ideas, they are not meant to discourage members and leaders from trying their own ideas. Kits are allowable, but 4H members are encouraged to try their own hand at designing their projects and exhibits, and choosing the colors and materials.

Beginners may be any age with little or no previous experience with a particular skill. Intermediate/advanced refers to the degree of skills level and not to the age of the member. It is possible that an 11-year old member is advanced in a particular area just as it is possible that a 17-year old may be a beginner. We would expect a more advanced/complicated exhibit from a member who has experience in a project technique.

FAIR EXHIBITS

Projects must be completed in order to be exhibited: all exhibits must be neat and clean and ready for their intended use (i.e., paint and glue dry, ready to hang if appropriate, etc.). If an exhibit is framed, please keep in mind that judges may need to examine the back of the work in order to evaluate the piece.

Overall, the exhibit should show attention to detail, with specific techniques done well. Generally, whatever has been done to make the article should be nicely done - for example, gluing should be done carefully, without excess and should be secure; cut edges should be neat and clean; stitching should be neat and even; paint should be even, with no runs; structural/functional parts like wires, etc., should not be obvious; decorations should be secure.