Penny Sandy joined Bldg. 14 this year and comes to us with a lifetime of sewing experience. She was born and raised in our community, learning to sew from her grandmother at a very young age. And while she moved away for a bit, Penny found her way back home. (That seems to be a pattern here at Alabama Chanin.) She has a close family and has raised four children. She volunteered for the Muscle Shoals High School band for seven years—fitting, sewing, and repairing each band member’s uniform. The care she puts into creating clothes is apparent—proudly making so people feel good about what they wear. When the weather is nice, you’ll find Penny at the river fishing, relaxing with her family, and enjoying the beauty our region has to offer. Learn a little more about Penny below.
AC: What do you enjoy most about your job at Alabama Chanin? Has your role changed since you started?
PS: I have found everyone at Alabama Chanin to be so nice and encouraging. It’s a learning process to master each machine, but I’m building my skills every day and learning how to make more and more.
AC: What drew you to working at Alabama Chanin?
PS: I love to sew. It’s a wonderful thought to know you can do something you are passionate about.
AC: What is the one thing are you most proud of creating in your personal life?
PS: I worked with the Muscle Shoals High School Band making the uniforms looking the best they can and fitting them to every child. They should only have to think about the music and not their uniform, so they can do what they do best.
AC: What is your favorite thing to make (or favorite part of the making process) at Alabama Chanin?
PS: I enjoy all of it!
AC: What is your first sewing or making memory?
PS: I was 8 years old when my grandmother showed me how to piece together a scrap quilt and then quilt it.
This week on the Journal, we highlighted members of our team as part of Fashion Revolution Week. We know it takes a village, and over 30 employees and 25 artisans contribute to making Alabama Chanin the company that it is. We are committed to responsible production and transparency in our supply chain and all of our processes day in and day out. Thank you for being a part of our journey.
#wemadeyourclothes