Commissions
Sewing is my passion, but the time and experience that goes into creating a piece of clothing or sewn project is unknown to many. Here are some points to clarify expectations, client responsibilities, and the sewing process.
Fargo North Dakota custom sewing
Thank you for visiting! Sewing is my passion, but the time and experience that goes into creating a piece of clothing or sewn project is unknown to many. Here are some points to clarify expectations, client responsibilities, and the sewing process. Please contact me with any additional questions or sewing inquiries.
Rates and Materials
All work is charged at an hourly rate. This charge is for labor only. Custom work of any kind is meant to be taken seriously and completed carefully. It requires skilled labor, individual attention, and time. Neither "rush work" nor mass production services are available.
Inventory beyond essential sewing supplies (needles, thread, etc.) is not stocked. Any additional materials are the client's financial responsibility. I am more than willing to help clients with these needs. Please inquire for assistance or advice in sourcing materials.
Location and Travel
My studio is located near downtown Fargo, ND. Client consultations are available by appointment only. The client is responsible for transportation of themselves and the garment/project to and from the studio. All consultations and fittings take place in the studio; the address will be provided when needed.
I only work with clients who are able to personally attend consultations and fittings. Due to a variety of factors, client home visits, pick-ups, or deliveries are not available.
Please arrange for childcare at a separate location during any appointments. The sewing studio is not a play area for children. Distractions, inefficiencies, or damages to studio equipment will result in extra time & charges.
Fittings and Measurements
A “fitting” is a meeting between the client and myself where the garment is tried on and the fit assessed. The number of fittings required varies greatly according to the original garment and desired outcome.
Accurate client measurements are essential for any garment work. Measurements are taken over the client’s clothing; it is not painful or time consuming, but does require some close contact between the client and myself. The process may feel awkward to some people. Clients can expedite the procedure by wearing properly fitting undergarments and form-fitting clothing. (Note: Very tight garments can distort the body shapes; loose garments create extra bulk. Neither will result in accurate measurements or well-fitting final garments. If you have questions about what to wear, please ask.)
Alterations are changes made to an existing piece of clothing. At least two fittings are needed. The first will assess what alterations need to be done, and the second will check for proper fit when the work is completed. Additional fittings may be necessary. All fittings are considered labor and charged accordingly.
Alterations of existing garments can be very labor intensive due to multiple factors such as the construction techniques used, fabric types, and embellishments. Some garments may require options that are more creative and less straightforward. Not all garments can be altered successfully.
Alterations
Custom Clothing
Custom clothing is a garment planned, fitted and sewn for a specific client. Because the piece is made “from scratch” for an individual, it requires several steps. A consultation is scheduled to discuss the desired garment style and fabric preferences, and measurements are taken. A practice garment, called a muslin or toile, is sewn to determine fit and any desired changes. The muslin/toile is used as the pattern for the final garment.