Business and Service Style
You will find answers to common questions and how I run my business in this area.
Once we have decided to work together I will send you a client packet that contains my business information, a measuring kit, a price quote and a contract. There is a 15.00 fee for the packet, which is waived once the packet is completed and returned. A non-refundable deposit of 25% and the required paperwork along with fabric and pattern and any notions if they are coming from your end need to be sent to me before I will start work on your project. These items are necessary as I want us to be clear on the process of creating your garment.
It will take approximately 6-10 weeks to complete your garment, depending on the pattern/style you have chosen and alterations to design and pattern. I work on a unit pricing method that allows you some control over the cost. Example—a machine inserted zipper would cost less than a zipper applied by hand.
Fabric is the responsibility of the client unless we make arrangements for me to shop and provide the fabric for you at an extra charge. Fabric needs to be suitable for the design and style you have chosen. Suitable fabric does not necessarily need to be extremely expensive, but it does need to be of good quality and correct for the method of laundering and care that you prefer. The garments I make are meant to give you enjoyment for a long time.
Patterns may be chosen from my personal collection or from other sources. If you choose a vintage pattern from another source and it is not your size, there is a fee to draft it up or down. There is a set fee for the of use my patterns. This is to maintain the patterns, as most of what I have is vintage and fragile. My original patterns are drafted onto a muslin which are used to personally fit your body. If you choose to purchase a current pattern, please consult with me before you choose the size or allow me to pick the pattern up for you.
If you are an out of town client, fitting will be done by muslin through the mail. It is imperative that you wear the same undergarments that you plan to wear with the outfit when fitting. Wearing an improper or different undergarment may change the fit of the finished garment. Fittings must be returned in a timely manner, so that I can complete your garment at the promised delivery date. Delay in returning your muslin may change delivery date of the finished garment.
Fees will be estimated at acceptance of the project. Fees include consultations, design planning and changes, pattern fee (if pattern is from my collection or drafting one of yours), pretreatment and preparation of fabric, cutting pattern and garment, fitting, sewing, pressing, postage and billing. Notions (examples--thread, buttons, zippers etc) will be purchased and added to your bill. If you want to use grandmas buttons or other special notions I will be happy to add those to your garment instead. Postage for fittings will be kept to a minimum and will be added to the bill. Payment can be made by personal check, money order or credit card through Paypal.
You will find me courteous to your needs and honest to work with. My goal is to create a beautiful one of a kind garment that you will be happy with for years to come. If you are new to using a Custom Clothier and need more general information, link to the PACC page and review their FAQ’s. I am also more than happy to answer any other questions you have.
