Hi All!
Everyone is always so helpful on the site and informative, so I’d love if anyone would share their thoughts on this idea I have in my head.
I’ve recently taken a new job that is eating up all my personal time and I haven’t been able to sew anything and don’t see it changing for awhile. Soo, I sew for business casual clothes for myself. I HATE shoping because nothing fits well, my measurements are unporpotional to standard clothing, and most garments I can afford I then have to pay to have them altered. (I don’t feel comfortable altering garments with no seam allowances, I’m only medium level sewer) Plus I’m frustrated with the stores offering few options for the best flattering style for my figure. I do LOVE shopping for fabric/patterns/notions, etc..
I was thinking of trying to hire a seamstress to make the pile of items I have patterns and fabric for. My question is, what is considered a reasonable rate for creating garments from patterns–is it usually an hourly rate? What kind of time turnarounds are normal?
I realize that having someone make these increases the cost of the garment, but I think I would have clothing that would look great, LAST, and reflect my personality. Is this even a realistic idea to pursue? Please let me know what you all think!
Thanks in advance!
Replies
I think it's a very sensible idea. Look in your local phone book, or visit http://www.paccprofessionals.org, to find a dressmaker in your area, and call to see what she charges. This could be the beginning of a beautiful relationship (not to mention wardrobe)!
Carol
I would definitely choose a seamstress over shopping any day! If you think of what you've probably invested in time and materials to collect your stash, it will be a worthwhile investment to have someone complete your ideas. Any work that I have had done (mostly special occasion) has been flat priced, but I think it would depend on the seamstress. Good luck!
Thanks so much for the feedback! I'm really excited about this idea and plan on contacting some seamstresses this weekend! Happy sewing to all!
A really good seamstress will have rates that will be along the line of purchasing your really nice clothing off the rack. Try not to have sticker shock if someone quotes you what 'seems to be high' You are getting custom made clothing tailored just to you...and custom comes with a price most of the time.
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