My clothing alteration passion

/My clothing alteration passion
My clothing alteration passion 2016-10-21T10:18:23+10:00

My clothing alteration passion began when I realized that the manufacture of clothes had changed.  So why has clothing alteration become so popular?

Almost everyone buys "READY MADE" off the rack clothes.  It was not always the case, but when clothing manufacturers moved production to countries with cheap labor, the cost of purchasing a garment became more affordable.

Clothing manufacture facts

Consider the following:-

"In the 1960's USA produced 95% of their clothing and only 5% was produced overseas.

Fast forward 2013 and the USA produces 2% whilst the balance of 98% comes from overseas."

People buy more clothes at a cheaper rate.  So the consumer is happy because they can buy more clothes at a cheaper rate.  But since we are all different body shapes, some of those garments are not going to fit properly.

Over the above 50 year period there was a decline in sewing as a hobby.  However this is changing and sewing is having a revival, in all age brackets.

My interest is in clothing alterations because this is what I do for a living, but I am also very happy that more people are choosing sewing to express their talents.  We need people to join our sewing revolution so that the industry as a whole survives.

This is how my journey began - I decided to build a website focusing on clothing alterations - passing on my knowledge.  Clothing alterations is my passion, and I believe clothing alterations is an honorable way to earn a living.  Providing a service which is needed and being rewarded in return.  If you want to consider this professional take a look at my Clothing Alteration Business Package which also includes a 13 page Price Guide.

Altering a "ready made" garment is TOTALLY DIFFERENT from making a garment.  With dressmaking a pattern is altered to fit the person's body shape, but when altering a ready made garment, it is necessary to work with the panels available within the garment.

Buying "off the rack" means altering based on the garment construction, but beware because a garment can be ruined if altered incorrectly

  • How should it be pinned and why?
  • How should the garment be prepared for sewing?
  • Should it be unpicked first, then pinned?

These are questions that will be answered within this website.  Whether you want to learn how to alter your own clothes, for your family and friends, start a small clothing alteration business working from home or take the big step and open a shop.  Most of the questions and information needed to do that will be found within this website.

Answers to those questions can be found in my book Clothing Alteration Secrets Revealed, and within the Hints & Tips section.