Getting Started

So you want to have something made. That’s terrific! But, you’re not really sure how to go about it…? I get that. Or maybe you’re not yet sure what you want your finished item to look like? Well, that is no problem! In fact, that’s part of the collaborative process and experience you should expect to encounter when having something made to order, just for you.

When you set up your free appointment to discuss your potential project, we will consider all the options and designs that might best fit your vision. We will work together to help realize your ideas and goals for whatever it is you’d like to have made. You are very encouraged to bring photos, color/print swatches - anything that will help convey the image you might have in mind.

Why Have Something Custom Made?

There are many reasons why you might want to have clothing custom made. Perhaps you have some fitting problems and have a difficulty finding ready-to-wear garments that fit properly and look polished on you. Or maybe you have a special function or event to attend and need something spectacular! - a truly one-of-a-kind item that will impress and amaze!

Or maybe off-the-rack clothing doesn’t accurately portray your individual style, taste or personality - even for everyday wear. Maybe you’ve become bored with the same old tired styles, have no interest in wearing what designers think you should be wearing that year, or being “forced” to wear the unflattering trends that everyone else is wearing.

Of course, many of us have also become acutely aware of the high cost of “Fast Fashion.” For those of us who are sustainability- and ethically-inclined, we are looking for responsible alternatives. Many people are opting to stop buying one-season-wonders, in exchange for having fewer pieces in their wardrobes of higher quality fabrics and construction, which will last for many years. Custom made clothing is the ideal solution for these, and many other considerations.

Pricing

Pricing for custom made clothing is naturally, very variable. Based on the level of detail an complexity of the garment, and the estimated labor involved. Materials are an additional factor, as well. Fabrics and other elements can be purchased by you, you can shop with my assistance, or commission me to do the shopping with your instructions. A guideline for the cost of a sundress would start at $65, a fitted skirt at $80, tailored trousers at $125, not including materials.

For your convenience, I accept a variety of payment types: cash, checks, PayPal, Venmo, and most major credit cards. A specified deposit will be required at the start of a project, and must be paid in full before pick-up.

Other Offerings

  • Historic Reproductions and Costuming of all kinds.

  • Custom Home Décor projects, such as draperies and swags, table linen sets, most slip covers, pillows, custom wall hanging art to match your décor, etc.

  • Copy a favorite garment.

  • Up-cycling and reconstruction.

  • Clothing alterations of all types.

  • Sewing Instruction: I am available to teach basic to advanced sewing and garment construction; one-on-one or small groups, to adults and children of all ages. I have taught a variety of classes in the past and occasionally teach sewing classes in Guilford, CT at Cate’s Sew Modern, so check out the offerings there, as well.

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