My mother’s mother was a seamstress when young and living in Sicily. I was always fascinated with a vintage Singer treadle sewing machine in oak cabinet with two drawers on each side. She could make the needle fly through fabric as she pumped with her feet. My mother had a Singer Featherweight 221, although she purchased a newer machine at some point, I think it was the Featherweight she liked most. It was on that machine I learned to sew. 

My sister got that machine, but about two years ago, I was gifted the same model in its original carrying case. I just had it serviced and today I used it to begin hemming too long skirts. It’s been decades since I sewed, and I found myself still too impatient to press and baste and pin. One project ended up with a messy waistband, another I took up the fold on the wrong side. Two more skirts and then I start on repurposing denim jackets that will require patience and skill I am not sure I have. 

My practice has come to focus on two things: gratitude and ancestors. I will be most grateful if I can channel my mother and her mother.