I was taught to sew by my Paternal Grandmother. My first sewing experience occurred before I started school, helping her make quilts. Before age six I was introduced to her sewing machine, that treadle machine remains one of my treasured belongings. In order to use the treadle and watch the stitching I had to stand, I wasn't tall enough to sit and manage both tasks. My dear Grandmother shared her love for sewing with me, over four decades later I continue to find great joy in the creativity.
During the late 1960s college friends and I frequented Underground Atlanta, an area that caters to the public via restaurants, nightclubs, street-cart vendors, boutiques, street mimes, street musicians, etc. (Underground Atlanta is actually 'underground', almost directly beneath Georgia State, my college campus.) A college friend working in a nightclub suggested I consider managing the house band. After signing contracts with the owners and band members I started designing and creating embellished clothing for the band, I was able to negotiate higher salaries for the band and myself if they had an impressive look. Dancers performing in the Middle Eastern Dinner Clubs noticed as I delivered beaded garments to the band and asked if I would sew for them. Having always enjoyed a challenge I agreed. Before long the band was history. I remain focused on vending, I have found and thoroughly enjoy my 'niche'.
Site design by SOX Ltd 2003 © All Rights
Reserved.