The Sewery

03/12/2026

11/14/2025

12/14/2024

Knitting on the Job: The Story of a 1948 Gas Station Attendant’s Creative Pastime

In 1948, gas stations were busy hubs where attendants not only filled gas tanks but often checked oil levels, cleaned windshields, and provided a bit of friendly conversation. Yet, even at the busiest stations, there were quiet moments. And at one small-town station, a particularly resourceful attendant found a unique way to pass the time – knitting.

Meet Earl, a gas station attendant known around town for his welcoming smile and capable hands. But his hands were skilled at more than just checking tire pressure; they were also deft with knitting needles. During the slower parts of the day, when cars were few and far between, Earl would sit by the station’s little service counter, knitting scarves, mittens, and hats.

At first, customers were surprised. Some even chuckled as they pulled up to see him quietly stitching away behind the counter. But Earl took it in stride, often joking, “Idle hands aren’t good for business – or for keeping me warm in winter!” Word quickly spread that he was knitting during downtime, and locals began to bring him yarn or patterns, eager to see what his next project might be.

Earl’s handiwork became the talk of the town. He would give away many of his knitted items, often as gifts to his family or customers who had come to see him more as a friend than just their gas station attendant. When kids stopped by with their parents, he’d surprise them with a small knitted keepsake – a colorful bookmark or tiny pom-pom to clip to their backpacks.

For Earl, knitting was more than just a way to fill the quieter moments. It became a form of relaxation and a creative outlet. While some might have found knitting an unusual hobby for a gas station worker, Earl showed his community that there’s no such thing as a “right” or “wrong” way to enjoy your time.

11/18/2024

November 12, 2024 8:45 pm EST

was the first of 5 shows The Garfunkels at Cafe Carlyle.

It was an honor to be on stage with my family.

We'll be performing there four more times in the next few days.

Order Father and Son now: https://lnk.to/Garfunkel_and_Garfunkel_Father_And_Son

artgarfunkel.com
artgarfunkeljunior.com

10/27/2024

100% Ad-Free.

09/22/2024

04/02/2024

ODETOSPRING24

at The Sewery.Etsy.com

Discount: 20% off
Duration: Mar 31, 2024 3:00 PM—May 1, 2024 12:00 AM

04/01/2024

Beets! cute trim for a new apron.

02/02/2024

New Listings on The Sewery for your sewing projects. Most are OOP - out of print cotton fabrics.

This Fabric item is sold by TheSewery. Ships from Lincoln, RI. Listed on Jan 31, 2024