This is a trade, something you can take on after you're out. It's good for the self-esteem. Many of the women had never sewn a stitch before entering the sewing shop. Others had done a few projects on home sewing machines or for 4H or school projects. Working in the sewing shop requires discipline, perseverance and patience.
Teamwork is also critical.
Not every inmate is cut out for it. We have to get along together in here, whether we like it or not. Gavin has had to fire women for attitude and behavior problems. I had to weed them out, otherwise it will just filter down and then everyone will think it's acceptable. There's a high turnover, so training is constant.