My youngest, now 7, is on the spectrum, and every trip to the store results in something akin to your experience. I too am sensitive and when he was tiny, it would hurt me so much and make feel so frustrated. Frustrated that I couldn't help him, and frustrated that so many were judging me out of ignorance. I learned several lessons over the years, as someone above mentioned, some of the stares, are concerned people ready to help, others are not. Either way, I'm likely to swallow my bile, and ask for help.

But I learned the greatest lesson from another Mom, in my same boat... Ask those who are staring at you to help you in some way. Most people cannot continue to be judgemental or hateful, if you have pleasantly requested their help. And those that already wanted to help, will also graciously get you that needed help.

Hey, can you push my cart and help me put my groceries away in my van, is something I've said more than once if I'm lucky enough to make it to the checkout line before the meltdown starts.

Hey, can you get a manager, I need a small quiet space for my child who is disabled.

Heck I've even asked for things I know we don't need, like I need you to find me a cool wet towel. Or water.

Also use an authoritative voice with the person you are asking for help, Sound like you fully expect that they will comply, most of these folks are bullies, and will back down when you give them the voice, and end up being nice to you....you know the voice...my 12th grade English teacher had the voice...I just try to sound like her :)

Most times they will help, I've had a few times where they just huffed off, but there have been times, it has led to my being able to educate them on autism or sensory processing disorder. You may not fall in either of those categories, but I bet the same strategies would work.

Just wanted to say your tutorial was great, my leaders came out absolutely perfect. Thanks!

Awesome tutorial! I just purchased a used machine/frame and the leaders that came with it were arch shaped so I knew I was going to have to do something to fix that before I even started to play with my new machine. Your tutorial was very clear and precise, and I was easily able to create new leaders. However I couldn't find pillow ticking anywhere locally and I didn't want to wait until I could order some, so mine are bright pink, beige and green striped upholstery weight cotton.