Sew What’s Up Presents
The Sew What’s New Archive
This archived content is from Mary Wilkins’ sewing and
quilting message board “Sew What’s New,” which was
retired in August 2007. It is being provided by
“Sew What’s Up,”
which serves as the new home for many members of “Sew What’s New.”
From: Sew-Enchanting
Date: 12-28-2005, 11:19 AM (1 of 7)
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I was just tickled to find such a often-used set of sewing forums! Too often, what you find online is just a few people here and there - this is terrific! I am in the process of setting up a sewing business. In fact, I'm going to get all the paperwork tomorrow. My plan is special occasion/bridal because it's what I love to sew the most. I also have plans for accessories and crafts down the line. I'm lucky to live in an area that doesn't have many dressmakers - or really that many people willing to do alterations. I was really interested to see a few posts on alterations and an "average" charge that someone posted (I'm sorry - I don't remember who) from another website. I think we all have issues with underpricing our wares - I would never have dreamed of charging $90 to hem a wedding dress!  I'm having problems finding wholesalers on the web - they just don't seem to advertise, and most of the time they don't even show up in Google searches! I'm not talking material/fabric - I have a wholesaler for that. I mean laces and bridal appliques. Any suggestions? As a tip - I've found that ebay can be a godsend for getting large amounts of suitable laces for a very reasonable price. My problem is that I don't want to put a lot of money out front until I know what my customers will want! I just wanted to pop in to introduce myself and meet some of you. Thanks for all the great ideas! Kris Kris
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User: Sew-Enchanting
Member since: 12-28-2005 Total posts: 53 
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From: esrun3
Date: 12-28-2005, 11:59 AM (2 of 7)
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Welcome to the boards, Kris! I sew and quilt for my family so have no answers for you but I know there are several here who run or have run their own business. I'm sure they'll be along soon with answers for you. Wanted to welcome you though.
Lyn
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User: esrun3
Member since: 12-02-2004 Total posts: 2345 |
From: Melanie T
Date: 12-29-2005, 10:02 AM (3 of 7)
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Have you seen this site yet for laces and trims? http://kieffersfabrics.com I find them very reasonably priced. Order their catalog though, I find the website is difficult to navigate. Melanie
4 little sewing machine mechanics (6, 4, 2, Born June 14) Ontario Canada |
User: Melanie T
Member since: 09-21-2004 Total posts: 155 |
From: Sew-Enchanting
Date: 12-29-2005, 10:40 PM (4 of 7)
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Thanks for the welcome and the website! I hadn't found them yet - so I appreicate the additional help! Off to play with my new embroidery machine... 
Kris
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User: Sew-Enchanting
Member since: 12-28-2005 Total posts: 53
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From: Sewspecial
Date: 12-30-2005, 06:56 AM (5 of 7)
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Nice of you to join us Sew-Enchanting. This is a great forum. I too specialize in Special Occassion clothing. Most Fabric/Lace companies have websites. On the sites there is usually a page that will list the local representative, with his/hers name and number. In Massachusetts, there is a Textile show that happens twice a year, Most of the Manufacturers reps are there showing the new, and not so new styles for the season The following link may help http://www.apparelsearch.com/Wholesale_Clothing/Components/wholesale_fabric.htm Good Luck Marie, SewSpecial Company |
User: Sewspecial
Member since: 09-24-2004 Total posts: 30 |
From: MaryW
Date: 01-04-2006, 09:13 AM (6 of 7)
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Welcome to Sew Whats New. I want you to feel at home here. What do you have planned for 2006?
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542 
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From: Sew-Enchanting
Date: 01-05-2006, 07:41 PM (7 of 7)
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Thanks for the welcomes! I've been working on tax papers the last few days...sure makes me wish I could ignore that part and just sew...'course, Uncle Sam gets his part, I just hate the paperwork. I'm catering towards bridal parties and am working on the "whole experience" - not just the dress. The garter, veil, ringbearer's pillow, cover for the guestbook, card holder, etc. I also do crafts from ready-to-wear dresses. All those old bridesmaids dresses sitting in the closet...I make into doll dresses to return as a gift to the bride. Also, christening gowns from wedding dresses. In addition to all the other start-up stuff, I'm getting a web page together. Nothing like a little work in my spare time, eh? My sister (who also owns a sewing business) and I might go to a textile show in Vegas in March. Has anyone ever been to one? Just curious what to expect. Thanks! Kris Kris
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User: Sew-Enchanting
Member since: 12-28-2005 Total posts: 53
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