Content
The purpose of Home Design & Restoration is to learn design principles and develop graphic design techniques. In addition, activities in this category encourage well-thought-out design plans and diverse artistic techniques. Be sure to take note of the rules section to develop a successful project.
Refer to General Rules for Ribbon Premium information.
Resources
Scoresheets, forms, contest study materials, and additional resources can be found at https://go.unl.edu/ne4hhomedesignrestoration.
A list of 4-H projects and links to 4-H curriculum resources can be found at https://4h.unl.edu/resources/projects.
Rules:
Home Design & Restoration Exhibits are evaluated by these criteria:
- Items must be designed to be used for home decorating, home furnishing, or home management (no clothing, purses, note cards, scrapbooks/photo albums, etc.)
- Accessories should be of high quality (as compared to quick, simple crafts), suitable for use in the home for several months throughout the year. Holiday-specific items are discouraged. Exhibits made from kits are also discouraged as kits limit decision-making in the design process.
- Items should show creativity and originality, along with the application of design element and principles. 4-H members are required to include the design elements and principles they used along with simple directions for how they made their project with their exhibit. Information on the elements and principles of design may be found in the Design Decisions manual, as well as Portfolio Pathways and Sketchbook Crossroads.
- Entered in correct class: What medium was changed or manipulated? What medium is the majority of your exhibit made from?
- Items should be ready for display in the home: pictures framed, wall hangings and pictures ready to hang, etc. No single mat board or artist canvas panels allowed. Wrapped canvas (if staples not visible on edge) is accepted without framing. Make sure hangers are strong enough to support the item. Command Strips are not adequate hangers. *Items not ready for display will be dropped one ribbon placing, and not be eligible for State Fair.
- All static exhibits must have received a purple ribbon at the county fair to advance to the state fair.
- Items should not be made for beginning level or other projects (ex: simple (10 minute) table runners or woodworking). Exhibits from the beginning level projects, such as Design My Place, are county only and not state fair eligible.
- NUMBER OF ENTRIES PER INDIVIDUAL - One entry per exhibitor per class. Limit of two entries in ALL Home Design & Restoration projects per exhibitor.
**For example: Portfolio Pathways C261001 ORIGINAL ACRYLIC PAINTING can only have one entry. Only two entries allowed under Portfolio Pathways project area.
- SIZE OF EXHIBITS - Exhibits may be no taller than 7 feet and no wider than 6 feet. All exhibits must be easily lifted by two 4-H staff.
- ENTRY TAGS - An entry tag which includes a clear description of the entry must be securely attached to each Home Design & Restoration exhibit. Use color, pattern or picture descriptions to aid in identification. No straight pins.
- IDENTIFICATION - In addition to the entry tag, a label with the exhibitor’s name and county should be attached to each separate piece of the exhibit.
SUPPORTING INFORMATION TAG - Supporting information is required for all Home Design & Restoration exhibits. Information must include elements or principles of design used and steps taken to complete project. Tag templates can be found at https://go.unl.edu/ne4hhomedesignrestoration
Exhibits without supporting information will be dropped a ribbon placing.
Supporting information is required for all State Fair (SF) eligible Home Design & Restoration exhibits. This includes Design Decisions, Sketchbook Crossroads, Portfolio Pathways and Heirloom Treasures.
County only exhibits (*) do not require the supporting information but it is encouraged.
Scoresheets, Forms, and Contest Study Materials:
Scoresheets, forms, contest study materials, and additional resources can be found at https://go.unl.edu/ne4hhomedesignrestoration.
An explanation of projects and curriculum resources can be found at https://4h.unl.edu/resources/projects/.
State Fair: On-Campus Exhibition: State Fair visual arts exhibits may be selected for special on-campus exhibitions. Selected pieces will be collected at the end of State Fair and will be returned to county Extension offices following the on-campus exhibition. Youth whose pieces are selected will be contact directly with additional information including the exhibition and reception dates.
DESIGN MY SPACE (Ages 8-12)
*Not State Fair Eligible
*C 251 901 NEEDLEWORK ITEM (made with yarn or floss)
*C 251 902 SIMPLE FABRIC ACCESSORY (pillow, laundry bag, pillowcase, table runner, etc.)
*C 251 903 ACCESSORY made with original batik or tie dye.
*C 251 904 SIMPLE ACCESSORY made by 4-H’er using wood
*C 251 905 SIMPLE ACCESSORY made by 4-H’er using plastic
*C 251 906 SIMPLE ACCESSORY made by 4-H’er using glass
*C 251 907 SIMPLE ACCESSORY made by 4-H’er using clay
*C 251 908 SIMPLE ACCESSORY made by 4-H’er using paper
*C 251 909 METAL TOOLING OR METAL PUNCH Accessory
*C 251 910 STORAGE ITEM Made or Recycled
*C 251 911 BULLETIN OR MESSAGE BOARD
*C 251 912 PROBLEM SOLVED Use creative methods to show how you solved a problem (air quality, water, sound, temperature, lighting, fire escape plan, etc.)
*C 251 913 VIDEO showing how to make a bed or organize a room
DESIGN DECISIONS (Ages 13-18)
Rules:
- Attach information to explain steps taken. Information must also include the element or principle of design used (p. 9-12). Review rules listed on page 1 of HD&R.
C 257 001 DESIGN BOARD FOR A ROOM Include: color scheme, wall treatment, floor treatment, etc. OR floor plan for a room. Posters, 22 inches x 28 inches. Show what you learned with before and after pictures or diagrams, samples, story, cost comparisons, optional arrangements, etc.
C 257 002 PROBLEM SOLVED, ENERGY SAVERS OR CAREER EXPLORATION Identify a problem (as problem windows, storage needs, inconvenient room arrangement, cost comparison, energy conservation, waste management, etc.) OR explore a career related to home environment (what would it be, what education is needed, what would you do, etc.). Using poster, notebook, or other method, describe the problem and how it was solved OR your career exploration. (p. 74-93)
C 257 003 SOLAR, WIND, OR OTHER ENERGY ALTERNATIVES FOR THE HOME Can be models, either an original creation or an adaption of kit. If kit, label and explain what was learned and how the item could be used in or on exterior of home. (p. 74-93)
C 257 004 TECHNOLOGY IN DESIGN Incorporate technology into a project related to home design or use technology to develop the design; for example, using conductive thread to create a circuit that enhances a wall hanging or create the design with a 3D printer.
C 257 006 WINDOW COVERING May include curtains, draperies, shades, shutters, etc.
C 257 007 FLOOR COVERING May be woven, braided, painted floor cloth, etc. May be exhibited as a poster.
C 257 008 BEDCOVER May include quilt, comforter, bedspread, dust ruffle, canopy, etc. For quilts, state who did the quilting. (No fleece-tied exhibits.) (p. 50-53)
C 257 009 ACCESSORY ORIGINAL NEEDLEWORK / STITCHERY
C 257 010 ACCESSORY TEXTILE – 2D (tablecloth or runner, dresser scarf, wall hanging, etc. No tied fleece blankets or beginning/10-minute table runners.)
C 257 011 ACCESSORY TEXTILE – 3D (pillows, pillow shams, fabric bowls, etc. No fleece tied exhibits)
C 257 012 ACCESSORY 2D OTHER
C 257 013 ACCESSORY 3D (string art, wreaths, etc.)
C 257 014 ACCESSORY – Original Floral Design
C 257 015 ACCESSORY – Original made from Wood – Burn, cut, shape, or otherwise manipulate
C 257 016 ACCESSORY – Original made from Glass – Etch, mosaic, stain, molten or otherwise manipulate
C 257 017 ACCESSORY – Original made from Metal – Cut, shape, punch, sculpt, reassemble, or otherwise manipulate.
C 257 018 ACCESSORY – Original made from Ceramic or Tile Treatment to exhibit must go through a process that permanently alters the medium. Painting alone is not sufficient.
C 257 019 ACCESSORY – Recycled/Upcycled Item for the home Reuse a common object or material in a creative way. Include description of what was done to recycle or reuse item in your attached information.
C 257 020 FURNITURE – Recycled/Remade Made or finished by using a common object or material in a creative way. Include description of what was done to recycle or reuse item in your attached information.
C 257 021 FURNITURE – Wood Opaque finish such as Paint or Enamel
C 257 022 FURNITURE – Wood Clear finish showing Wood Grain
C 257 023 FURNITURE – Fabric Covered May include stool, chair seat, slipcovers, headboard, etc.
C 257 024 FURNITURE – Outdoor Living Furniture made/refurbished suitable for outdoor use. (NOTE: May be displayed outside). Include description of what was done to recycle or reuse item in your attached information.
C 257 025 ACCESSORY – Outdoor Living Accessory made/refurbished by 4-H member suitable for outdoor use. (NOTE: May be displayed outside.) Include description of what was done to recycle or reuse item in your attached information.
HOME ANTIQUE RESTORATION
(Formerly Heirloom Treasures & Family Keepsakes)
Rules:
- This project area is for items with historic, sentimental, or antique value that are restored, repurposed, or refinished to keep their original look and value. It is not for “recycled” items. For example, a bench would be considered an heirloom if the original finish is restored, but if decorated by painting it would be considered recycled. Entering highly valuable items (especially small ones) is discouraged, as exhibits are not displayed in closed cases.
- NOTE: Resources to support this project area are available on the 4-H website. Attach information including:
- List of steps taken to complete your project. Before and after pictures are encouraged.
- Keepsakes documentation: how you acquired the item and the history of the item may be written, pictures, audio or videotape of interview with family member, etc.
C 256 001 TRUNKS Including doll-sized trunks or wardrobes.
C 256 002 AN ARTICLE Either a repurposed "treasure" (accessory) from an old item or an old "treasure" (accessory) refinished or renovated. May include a display of a collection or collectibles, being careful not to destroy value of the collection.
C 256 003 FURNITURE Either a repurposed "treasure" from an old item or an old "treasure" refinished or renovated. May include doll-sized furniture.
C 256 004 CLEANED AND RESTORED HEIRLOOM ACCESSORY OR FURNITURE
A reconditioned and cleaned old piece of furniture or accessory that is functional for use or display. Item might be cleaned and waxed, and simple repairs made. Item would not be refinished or repainted but reconditioned to restore it to its original look or to prevent it from further damage as a valuable heirloom.
Consult extension publication “Care and Conservation of Heirloom Textiles” for information on textiles. This publication can be found in the Digital Commons at: https://go.unl.edu/gcnh
(Refinished items go in classes 2 – 3.) This class is for situations where it may be best to do very little to the item to maintain its antique value. Item or article should be of complexity suited to an advanced project.
VISUAL ARTS
With an emphasis on originality, the purpose of the 4-H Visual Arts projects is to practice using design elements and principles while exploring and experimenting with various mediums and techniques. In addition, youth should practice self-expression and work to communicate their personal voice through their work.
Visual Arts categories are divided between Visual Art Mediums (formerly Sketchbook Crossroads) and Visual Art Themes (Portfolio Pathways).
Rules:
- Original Work - Items must be the original work of the 4-H member and should show creativity and originality. No copyrighted images or master studies.
- Framed and Ready for Professional Display - All exhibits must be presented appropriately for the medium(s) used and ready to be professionally displayed. 2-dimensional pieces on paper should be framed behind glass/plexiglass. Canvas boards should be framed but glass/plexiglass is not necessary. Stretched canvases do not need frames as long as staples are not visible on the edges. All 2-dimensional pieces should be ready to hang using a sawtooth or wire hanger.
- Entries per Exhibitor: 4-H members may enter one exhibit per class.
- Entry Descriptions: Entry tags should include a visual description of the exhibit, including size, dominant color, and subject to aid in identification.
- Visual Arts Supporting Information Tag: Supporting information is required for all Visual Arts exhibits. Information must include responses to all questions and steps taken to complete the project. Supporting Information tag templates can be found at https://go.unl.edu/ne4hvisualarts. Exhibits without supporting information will be dropped a ribbon placing.
- Exhibit must receive a purple ribbon at the county fair to advance to the State Fair.
VISUAL ART MEDIUMS
Rules:
- Exhibits may utilize any medium or combination of mediums on any surface. All exhibits must be appropriately presented and ready to be professionally displayed. Artwork should depict the artist's own interpretation of the theme. All exhibits should include an explanation of how the piece reflects the theme and what ideas or thoughts the artist was attempting to express or communicate.
- Classes 001-006, are to be framed and ready to hang. Those not following this will be dropped one ribbon placing, and not be eligible for State Fair.
Resources:
Scoresheets, forms, contest study materials, and additional resources can be found at https://go.unl.edu/ne4hvisualarts.
A list of 4-H projects and links to 4-H curriculum resources can be found at https://4h.unl.edu/resources/projects.
C 260 001 ORIGINAL ACRYLIC PAINTING
C 260 002 ORIGINAL OIL PAINTING
C 260 003 ORIGINAL WATERCOLOR PAINTING
C 260 004 ORIGINAL PENCIL DRAWING
C 260 005 ORIGINAL CHARCOAL DRAWING
C 260 006 ORIGINAL INK DRAWING
C 260 007 ORIGINAL FIBER ART Could include weaved art, dyed fabric, felted wool, cotton linter, batik, etc.
C 260 008 ORIGINAL SCULPTURE Could include Styrofoam, wood, cardboard, paper, metal, wire, etc.
C 260 009 ORIGINAL CERAMIC POTTERY No purchased ceramic pottery. Must be glazed and fired. May be any hand-built technique or wheel thrown. May be functional or non-functional. Could include slab built, pinch pots, coil built, wheel thrown, etc.
C 260 010 ORIGINAL PAINTING ON PURCHASED CERAMIC SURFACE No hand-built or wheel thrown pottery. May be functional or non-functional. Could include figurines, cups, bowls, etc.
C 260 011 ORIGINAL SINGLE MEDIA NOT LISTED Could include digital art, leathercrafting, printmaking, stained glass, pastels, scratchboard, sand painting, encaustic painting, chalk, etc.
C 260 012 ORIGINAL MIXED MEDIA Could include any combination of two or more other mediums or materials.
VISUAL ART THEMES
Rules
- Exhibits may utilize any medium or combination of mediums on any surface. All exhibits must be appropriately presented and ready to be professionally displayed. Artwork should depict the artist's own interpretation of the theme. All exhibits should include an explanation of how the piece reflects the theme and what ideas or thoughts the artist was attempting to express or communicate.
- Classes 001-006, are to be framed and ready to hang. Those not following this will be dropped one ribbon placing, and not be eligible for State Fair.
C 261 001 ORIGINAL ART INSPIRED BY PLANTS OR ANIMALS Could involve but is not limited to domestic animals, pets, agriculture, wild animals, wildlife conservation, house plants, fruit, vegetables, flowers, native plants, trees, etc.
C 261 002 ORIGINAL ART INSPIRED BY LANDSCAPES Could involve but is not limited to rural landscapes, natural environments, man-made environments, urban landscapes, extraterrestrial landscapes, oceanic scenes, buildings, fantasy landscapes, agricultural landscapes, etc.
C 261 003 ORIGINAL ART INSPIRED BY PEOPLE Could involve but is not limited to cultural art, modern society, portraits, daily life, careers, families, emotions, etc.
C 261 004 ORIGINAL ART INSPIRED BY ARTIST'S CHOICE Could involve but is not limited to food, cars, fantasy worlds, imaginary characters, science-fiction, history, etc.