Ida Cameron

Ribbon shirts Mohawk Akwasasne
Ida Cameron makes brightly colored ribbon shirts using calico and satin ribbons. She learned to make shirts from her mother, Lenora David, whose shirts were so well made and popular that, years after her passing, Ida still sees people wearing them to ceremonies. She draws inspiration from her mother’s designs and teachings, and at 80 years old is a self-employed artist. Ida had a long career working in a car factory before retiring and moving back to Akwesasne to pick up sewing. She loves to sew, spending several hours a day on her shirts, and sells her shirts at local crafts stores. She also fulfills custom orders for buyers who want to reflect their clan in the design. Her ribbon shirts feature floral patterns, stripes, and bold solids that are perfect for ceremonies, powwows, and as everyday wear.