That's the problem - sewing is seen as a girlie pastime. I compensated by mostly sewing only manly things - climbing slings, packs (really tough packs) and the like. And I stayed away from those complex machines with computerized programs for elaborate stitches - give me a treadle operated straight stitcher any day.

And I did all teh things you listed, Haertig. That always helps....
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Geezer in Chief