Born in 6009 AL (2009 AD), FraternalTies came to be a year after Brother John Paul Gomez became a Freemason. He wanted to have a Masonic necktie to wear to meetings but couldn't find anything that is not tacky and loud with big S&C's.
With his background as a Graphics Artist, he designed a fabric pattern and commissioned a factory to turn it into a necktie. The factory made two. Brother Gomez kept one for himself and auctioned the other one. The response was very warm and many placed their bids. A market for high-quality Masonic neckties was realized and the rest was history.
Born in 6009 AL (2009 AD), FraternalTies came to be a year after Brother John Paul Gomez became a Freemason. He wanted to have a Masonic necktie to wear to meetings but couldn't find anything that is not tacky and loud with big S&C's.
With his background as a Graphics Artist, he designed a fabric pattern and commissioned a factory to turn it into a necktie. The factory made two. Brother Gomez kept one for himself and auctioned the other one. The response was very warm and many placed their bids. A market for high-quality Masonic neckties was realized and the rest was history.
It took almost a year to get this one right! Only 200 units ever made. I was shocked to discover that some of the letter G on the fabric was woven in reverse!
At least one buyer requested for a refund while others seem to be delighted with the thought that the error will make it even more desirable to collectors in the future. Not sure if what you have is the 1st Edition? Look for the letter G between the S&C. If some of them are reversed, jackpot!
A Year in the Making
This one is not easy to make. It took me many design tweaks to get the fabric right. The photos below show the evolution of the Masonic paisley tie.
Bro. John Paul Gomez (aka Paul, JP, JPG) is a graphics designer by trade and a full-time father-of-4. He is currently the WM-Elect at Doric Lodge No. 316 AF&AM in Ontario, Canada. He is an honorary member of Harmonie Lodge No. 699 F&AM in Buffalo, New York. In his youth, he was a member of the International Order of DeMolay Occidental Mindoro Philippines Chapter and the Thomas Michael Sherry Priory Order of Knighthood. He is a wanabee Muaythai fighter.
John Paul Gomez
Author
Bro. John Paul Gomez (aka Paul, JP, JPG) is a graphics designer by trade and a full-time father-of-4. He is currently the WM-Elect at Doric Lodge No. 316 AF&AM in Ontario, Canada. He is an honorary member of Harmonie Lodge No. 699 F&AM in Buffalo, New York. In his youth, he was a member of the International Order of DeMolay Occidental Mindoro Philippines Chapter and the Thomas Michael Sherry Priory Order of Knighthood. He is a wanabee Muaythai fighter.