After 40 years of doing automotive upholstery, Don of Porter Auto Trim in San Francisco, California, closed up shop in 2012 and moved to Alabama with his wife.
Fortunately, a filmmaker thought it was worthwhile to document Don’s last days in business. “Leaving a Legacy” is a short – 1.25 minute – documentary about his career in the craft.
Of course, no one’s life story can be summed up in only a minute and a half, but this short documentary still manages to inspire. The sweetest part is listening to Don’s wife brag about his skills and experience.
We wish Don and his wife all the best, and hope they’re enjoying their retirement in the South.
For more stories from the craft of auto upholstery, check out our “Shop Profiles” section.
I remember Porter Auto Trim. In the Mission District not too far from another shop . . . Val’s. I lived in the Bay Area 20 or so years ago when I put my upholstery biz on hold and joined the corporate world. As soon as the dot-com boom stopped booming, I was just another unemployed number.
As auto upholsterers (a good one who treats people right that is), we are in demand and our work is appreciated. Thanks, Don Porter, for all your years of dedication to the craft!
GREAT write up. Nothing like the old-timers, old school mentality, & the quality that comes with it. I didn’t have the honor of knowing him but wish him all the best.
What kind of a foot is he using to sew that sun visor?
Looks like a modified welt foot