Travel Bug

First Trip to India

2001 had not been entirely textile desperate, as I had managed a trip to India & Sri Lanka in early 2001 (28 Feb–11 Mar 01).  This was a couple of wonderful weeks bashing around “the tourist triangle” in the back of a lovely old black Ambassador.  Little did I know that this was to be the start of some greater attachment….

(Photos, when found, will be scanned in)

Sewing Lessons in Port Dickson

Whilst living in Port Dickson (early 80's) in Malaysia, I had a few clothes custom made.  This was not unusual as almost everyone did the same.  They would shop for fabrics, of which there was plenty of choice, and then take them to a tailor with photo in hand, to have creations made to fit. 

Globe Silk Store in KL.  Levels of glorious fabrics.

I was fascinated by the process which was quite different to using our “off-the-rack” patterns at home.  Later, I discovered that my neighbourhood tailor also offered pattern making classes, so I jumped at the chance.  She had two other pupils so we had lots of attention and quickly managed to grasp the idea of drafting basic patterns to our own measurements.  The trick came later when we had to learn how to create more complex patterns.  I began to imagine myself costumier for Diaghilev’s Ballet Troupe. (Only dreaming!)

My course did not progress beyond the basics however, but I did have fun.  Many years later, I watched a pattern maker in Kathmandu, Nepal at the famous Mr Om's. He drafted directly onto the fabric with chalk.  Rarely did I ever have to have alterations made to the garments I had sewn up.  Pure magic; always awaited and appreciated! 

Colour on every street corner, Kathmandu