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: VenusElaine
Date: 10-20-2006, 09:05 PM (1 of 50)
|
I have sewn practically all my life (since age five), and have been doing professional alterations for over ten years, specializing in bridal/formal. This is after careers in soft furnishings (draperies, window treatments, bedding, etc.) and upholstery. I have two major problems with clientele. The first has to do with the "I sew some"  and "anybody can sew" crowd. They want it today and they don't want to pay for it. The second is the people who think, (because I sew for a living) that I am not somehow as intelligent or educated as they are. (I live in a "university small city"). I graduated from HS and attended WVU on an academic scholarship! I sew because I choose to do so, not because I have no other choices. I have heard: "This is really easy" "It's only a ..." and a variety of other condescending, and sometimes absolutly insulting comments  from the general public, that some days I want to turn into the "Sewing Nazi" and tell them, "No sewing for you today, come back in one year!" (Soup Nazi from Seinfeld).For others in business, (besides gritting your teeth), how do you deal with this? Thanks for letting me vent, it was a  day.VenusElaine "Always put as much effort into your marriage as you do into your wedding."
|
User: VenusElaine
Member since: 10-22-2005 Total posts: 126 |
From: SummersEchos
Date: 10-20-2006, 10:02 PM (2 of 50)
|
I don't sew for anyone else but my family and a few friends, but I work in a fabric store and I have heard those exact same remarks made by people who do sew for others and people who are having someone sew for them. Since I am a chatty person to our customers I hear quite a few rants and raves. I don't know how you can put up with their narrowmindness. A funny story was a lady who had left her high paying job to stay at home to be closer to her family and parents. She started sewing for others as word of mouth got around. After having people think she was just another SAHM, she framed and displayed her college degrees on her sewing room wall. When her customers came in the room to try their clothes on, they had no choice but to see these degrees and awards. It was her little way of telling them she made the choice to do this.
Summer
FREE FALLIN |
User: SummersEchos
Member since: 09-29-2004 Total posts: 884 |
From: AndreaSews
Date: 10-20-2006, 11:29 PM (3 of 50)
|
About the annoying comments from customers: It occurs to me that sewing is a very old skill, and old skills come with a certain tradition of haggling. I would not let it scratch at my ego if I were you--Any haggler knows one gets nothing unless one asks for it, and so one asks. But as a provider of a service which is simply not available just anywhere, it is certainly yours to be clear that your prices are firm and that you do not entertain haggling. Your time is worth exactly what you're charging because you know what time and skills are involved. Your customers would not like to take home office work over the weekend without compensation, so they will appreciate this. Feel free to turn away customers who do not feel like paying for the work they ask you to do. Reward the ones who do not make pests of themselves by throwing in a small (5 minute) favor for free once in a while, and you will be sure to gain more customers who are not pests! Through word of mouth. Summer--That's interesting.... When I redid my sewing room, I remember pausing when I came to my stack of diplomas and framed certificates, etc. I asked my husband, "What do you think I should do with these?" He said, "Hang them on the wall," in that 'what, are you kidding??' voice. I felt it was too ostentatious and still haven't done it. But now....you make a good point, about demonstrating that one has options and has chosen to be who she is. Andrea
|
User: AndreaSews
Member since: 02-18-2005 Total posts: 1007 
|
From: Carol in ME
Date: 10-21-2006, 03:26 PM (4 of 50)
|
I was carefully marking a skirt so the pleated portion would stay even, (shortening above the pleated portion) when the customer said to me, "People who do your sort of work must be kind of," she paused..."slow, musn't they?" I was so stunned, I couln't think of anything to say! I no longer run ads in the local, free weekly papers. All I got were calls from people who wanted their skirts hemmed for three and four dollars apiece. I did have a "karma is a boomerang" experience, though. I had patched up a neighbor's jeans so she could wear them a little longer to work. I realized that if I charged her the usual rate for the time taken to patch them, she could have purchased two pair for the Goodwill store. (Owing to the nature of her work, they get worn out fast.) I told her no charge. Exactly seven days later, my husband was stuck with a broken down car, and we hadn't a second vehicle for me to bring him what he needed to be road-worthy again. Neighbor kindly did it, and I'm sure she had other things she would rather have done that Saturday morning. |
User: Carol in ME
Member since: 01-27-2003 Total posts: 105 |
From: Patty22
Date: 10-21-2006, 05:13 PM (5 of 50)
|
I think many of us are sensitive about outsider's comments - especially when we are spending our free time persuing creative activities rather than.........whatever it is they do to fill their time. Somehow it is judged not with their inability to create, but with our mental abilities lacking somehow. Bwhahahahaha......when my firstborn was in the hospital (six weeks old, major, major health issues) the doctor turned to me and asked me if my husband was mentally retarded. I don't remember my exact words, but paraphrased it was no doctor, he isn't, but if you have a magic pill to make him smarter, I think he could use it now while he's in law school. We don't turn to sewing because we can't do anything else, it is because we have done everything else and sewing/quilting caters to our creative soul. Then there is the general public that thinks they shouldn't have to pay for this kind of "grandma" activity. Hey, they can go to their granny then. I had a woman call last week asking me if I knew how to make a memory quilt. In the course of the conversation she really hadn't checked out her mother's clothing yet, but she wanted the final cost for the quilt. I kept telling her that unless she knew what pattern and I saw the clothing, I couldn't give a price. It wouldn't be fair. I wouldn't budge and therefore she hasn't called back. It is amazing expectations of the public when they're really not sure of what they want. Anyway....Andrea....I think all of us should hang our diplomas and Phi Beta Kappa keys in our sewing rooms and intimidate the hell out of anyone that dares to enter our atelier. Reminds me also of my daughter's grade school teacher. She sent home a flier asking the parents what their jobs were and to describe them. At the time I went into the CEO of small successful business and all the time management skills etc (I think I also included textile historian and something else with sewing  ). Teacher later approached me in the classroom (very pissed) and informed me that not all the mothers had the opportunity to stay home and bake cookies. My daughter was intuitive and standing there watching understood quite clearly that her teacher didn't like her mommie. I informed the teacher I had the opportunity to make the right decision for my family and that was all that was important.So the lesson is, breathe in the good air and exhale the negative. For all the miserable goons out there, there are some wonderful, wonderful souls. And ............don't forget to laugh! Patty
|
User: Patty22
Member since: 03-29-2006 Total posts: 1194 |
From: VenusElaine
Date: 10-21-2006, 06:55 PM (6 of 50)
I must tell you, I really appreciate all the responses. Unfortunately, all my paper trail was lost in the flood of 1985 when I lived in Albright, WV. Two thirds of the town went down the Cheat River. And I do have clientele that are truly appreciative of my services, understand my scheduling, and even think I sometimes charge too little. Andrea mentioned haggling and that is another area where I usually come out for the better. A former co-worker told me once that when she quoted a price - $5.00 - and they replied, "Can you do it for $4?" she would come back with "No, but I can do it for $6". I sometimes wonder if these people go into the grocery store and try to haggle the price of a can of peas! I have a printed price list, to which I refer even if I know the price, every time it is requested. (I should know the prices, I created the list). One very telling incident was when a prominent research physician from the university came in for alterations. He spent much more time than was necessary telling me about his "$500.00 suits". This is a decent suit, but I have altered suits costing three times that, and wedding gowns costing ten times that. After I fit him and gave him his completion date, he asked if they could not be done sooner, he would pay extra for overtime. I looked him squarely in the eye and asked, "And how tired would you like me to be when I work on your $500.00 suits?"  We now have an understanding.VenusElaine "Always put as much effort into your marriage as you do into your wedding."
|
User: VenusElaine
Member since: 10-22-2005 Total posts: 126 |
From: Sancin
Date: 10-22-2006, 04:36 AM (7 of 50)
|
I have nothing but admiration for those of you who sew for others. I have enough trouble and time fitting for myself and occasionally my daughter to sew for anyone else. Due to time restraints, over the years, I have taken clothing to dressmakers to have made. I am a better sewer than the last woman I went to but I paid her more than she charged as she did a good job, I felt she wasn't charging enough, and I was impressed by the fact that did sew for others. Knowing what it takes makes one more appreciative of work that is done. You have to let people know what it is you do. I have been a nurse for over 40 years so I know how people do not know or understand the thought processes and energy that goes into nursing and other work. I am sure you have all heard stories about what people think about nurses. The image seems to be getting better now that I am retired but it seems to be coming as more nurses are telling their stories. I have just purchased a humorous book called Talk to the Hand by Lynn Truss about rudeness in the world today. I can hardly wait to get into it after reading the cover notes! *~*~*~* Nancy*~*~*~* " I try to take one day at a time - but sometimes several days attack me at once."
|
User: Sancin
Member since: 02-13-2005 Total posts: 895 
|
From: Chrysantha
Date: 10-22-2006, 08:00 PM (8 of 50)
|
I couldn't sew for another person for a million bucks. I did that once. I made clothes for my husbands family one yr for Christmas. Shirts for the men/boys (4), blouses/skirts for the women/girls (5)...everything fit, everything looked wonderful to me, I didn't get a thank you from anyone (1982)...fast foreward to 2004, Mothers and Fathers day...I made (embroidered) quilts for my mother and father-in-law...(I dont' have parents). I got told, we don't use quilts. No thank you's...no how pretties...we don't use quilts and we put them away. It's a good thing I have a sister and a neighbor who appreciate my efforts, otherwise......... So I learned to say NO to strangers...because if family doesn't appreciate you, strangers certainly won't. ::applause:: for all those who CAN and DO !!!!! Chrys
|
User: Chrysantha
Member since: 09-06-2002 Total posts: 2414 
|
From: Patty22
Date: 10-22-2006, 08:49 PM (9 of 50)
|
Today, a friend of mine came over to the house. I was in my jammies down in my sewing room (cleaning it because I didn't when I left it in the evening - shame on me BTW)............when she came through the door she said, "I'm sorry, but this is an emergency." ..............an emergency.........a sewing emergency........her grand-daughter's day care won't allow her to have her blanket anymore (she's 15 mo old) and so her daughter cut it into half hoping that if it were smaller they would allow it. Anyone who knows me would have been proud that I used my filters and bit my tongue. My friend had purchased some double folded tape and thought I could just sew it up. Now any of you that have had blankie holders know it is the texture of the satin binding that soothes the child. I told her the cotton bias fold tape wasn't going to work. She insisted that it was fine. I cut the sucker into two pieces and put the double fold bias tape on one small blankie, and I made blankie binding out of some poly satin scraps from clothing construction and put it on the other. (May I interject that I know about blankies.....I believe when my youngest - if and when she ever gets married - will have her blankie binding sewn into her wedding dress. We use to hide her blankie binding [the blanket part was dissentegrated] and then send it on trips with people. Mr. Greenie [yes, he had a name] went to the Louve, to London.....and friends would send pictures of Mr. Greenie....... Mr. Greenie hiding the private parts of David.  )My husband had been outside raking leaves and when he came into the house and I told him what I was doing and he was shocked that my friend didn't know how to sew blanket binding.......insinuating that all women should know how to sew. "Where have you been all these years? What makes you think all women know how to sew.....it is an art these days. Do all men know how to fix the plumbing or their cars?" I think it was time for me to go back into the basement and close my sewing room door. Honestly, I thought he had been listening to me all these years. Bwhahahahahaha and then I thought..........my MIL doesn't even know how to sew. He assumes that because I sew that all women sew. Bwhahahahaha.....maybe this is a good thing as he doesn't know that fabric stuffed in rubbermaid storage is NOT normal 
Patty
|
User: Patty22
Member since: 03-29-2006 Total posts: 1194 |
From: Chrysantha
Date: 10-22-2006, 09:50 PM (10 of 50)
|
Who's more clueless...women who don't sew or men who don't know that all women don't sew...?!?!?!?! My husband doesn't even ask anymore, he just holds out the garment and usually a button and gives me the 'look'...then I proceed to sew it on by hand and then he asks why...why ???? It will take me 20 mins to set up a machine with the correct foot, thread, needle, speed, etc...when really all I have to do is pick up a hand needle, thread and scissors and get to work. I guess I missed out. My grandmother taught me to sew, but she didn't quilt, so I didn't have a blankie...besides which we didn't sleep in school. ( I didn't go to kindergarten...I was in first grade at 5). Chrys
|
User: Chrysantha
Member since: 09-06-2002 Total posts: 2414
|
From: Carol in ME
Date: 10-22-2006, 09:55 PM (11 of 50)
|
he was shocked that my friend didn't know how to sew blanket binding.......insinuating that all women should know how to sew. This reminds me of the "sock darning" issue: I remember a colleague telling me that her husband made a point of telling her he didn't want his socks darned, (though she'd have been happy to do it) His mother had "darned" socks by whip-stitching a piece of fabric over the hole in the sock. Another colleague had her husband ask about darning socks, and she said, "Sure, anyone can darn socks, let me show you how I do it." Then she threw the socks in the trash. |
User: Carol in ME
Member since: 01-27-2003 Total posts: 105 |
From: Chrysantha
Date: 10-23-2006, 08:03 PM (12 of 50)
|
LMAO !!!!!! OMG...!!! thats what -I- do......socks are cheap...who wants or needs to darn one...unless it's an 'heirloom'....(and I've never heard of heirloom socks..)
Chrys
|
User: Chrysantha
Member since: 09-06-2002 Total posts: 2414
|
From: esrun3
Date: 10-23-2006, 08:46 PM (13 of 50)
|
I have enough trouble sewing just for my grandchildren. My dil has a friend who keeps asking me to make her elaborate costumes-5 days before she needs them for nothing and doesn't get that not only do I not have the time (I work full time) but I don't want to. I sew for pleasure and to relieve my stress-not to get stressed over something else. Neither of my dil's can sew-my boys (their spouses) do all the sewing that's needed in their homes unless I do it-and they do a fine job of it too! Kudos to you who sew for others....I enjoy doing it for my family but want nothing to do with the general public! Of course, on the other hand, I wander through a craft show and look at sewn items and think I'm not paying that, I can make it for way less than that but then I have to tell myself-not everyone sews...and truly, they aren't out of line with their pricing-they just are with me because I can make it. LOL Lyn
|
User: esrun3
Member since: 12-02-2004 Total posts: 2345 |
From: Patty22
Date: 10-23-2006, 08:54 PM (14 of 50)
|
Well Kath.....surprise, there are heirloom socks if they're in a historical home. bwhahahahaha....I certainly did enough data entries on those
Patty
|
User: Patty22
Member since: 03-29-2006 Total posts: 1194 |
From: VenusElaine
Date: 10-23-2006, 10:30 PM (15 of 50)
|
I love the post about darning socks. Of course, I pitch Rob's in the laundry room trash and he never sees it. I have a hard time getting some things away from him long enough to mend. Doesn't he understand that he can't appear in public like that when I am a professional seamstress?!? Honestly. My ex-husband worked construction and thought I should just keep patching his work jeans over and over. Once when we moved, an entire box of jeans that needed patching "mysteriously" disappeared . I didn't even save the zippers. It's cheaper to buy one than my time is worth to rip out a fly zipper. VenusElaine "Always put as much effort into your marriage as you do into your wedding."
|
User: VenusElaine
Member since: 10-22-2005 Total posts: 126 |
From: mommydionne
Date: 10-24-2006, 10:28 AM (16 of 50)
|
great thread!! I don't sew for others much, though I seemed to have got roped into doing my neices prom dress next spring. oh well, My husbands aunt called me the other day and said there was someone at her workplace who needed some things done, NOOOOOO.... It is just too awkward unless you have your business set up with that written out price list, Sewing is a skill and should be viewed as such, sure anyone can sew, but can you do it well???!! Jeanette
|
User: mommydionne
Member since: 01-08-2004 Total posts: 838 
|
From: judymo
Date: 10-24-2006, 10:29 AM (17 of 50)
|
Hi I sew for others, and sewing whether for others or my family has always been a passion with me, I do mostly alterations on wedding gowns and prom gowns, and bridemaid dresses,etc. the last bridesmaid dress I was going to do would have required me to cut and hem 4 layers, I gave the women the price quote after looking at it.and she went home and left the dress then I got a call saying my mother doesn't want you to do anything with it, she will call you later to discuss it with you, so I waited and then when her mother called she said it was too much money it was more than what the dress originally cost, As she got it at David's bridal shop, which is a discount. I was only a estimate, not firm price as I wasn't sure what I was going to get it to as it was a dress that needed to be done in a hurry. a week before the wedding. they decided that they would go back to David and see if they could get a smaller size. I suspect that they took it to some one else. not my problem. I have been sewing for over 40 years and it doesn't bother me any longer what people think about my doing sewing. it is as much an art as painting a picture, or writing a book. JudyMO |
User: judymo
Member since: 03-19-2005 Total posts: 185 
|
From: Isabel
Date: 10-24-2006, 10:46 AM (18 of 50)
| And darning socks- my pet peeve at the moment is my batchelor brother and jeans - he gets huge holes in them and I am expected to mend them- I will, but not zippers, break the zipper and I chuck them, I darn hand knitted socks only, but seem to mend those awful canvas Carhart pants for a young guy whose wife's sewing machine won't do it. Sigh. |
User: Isabel
Member since: 10-19-2005 Total posts: 6 |
From: paroper
Date: 10-24-2006, 11:09 AM (19 of 50)
|
When I left to work at home, the SECOND client I got came to me with an envelope for a lovely heirloom skirt and another for an heirloom blouse that she had purchased at a craft show. She brought me an entire bolt of Daisey Kingdom fabric (this is back when DK was a new thing). She had bought it some place at a discount and the fabric was misprinted so she had to take it back and get another. Anyway, The first thing she told me was that she could make it herself but she didn't have time. The patterns were about $27 apiece and she was complaining that she shouldn't have bought the patterns because all it was was a bunch of squares of fabric and I was a bit deflated. Between the two patterns with overlays flounces and such, there were 27 pleats in the two garments. Anyway, there was a basic front and back to the blouse but there were no other pattern pieces..only directions....cut a square for part A 1 1/2 times the waist. It was quite an experience. I was sure glad I had a rotary mat and a cutting table because it was all about cutting squares. I also REALLY underpriced this garment! Thread loops down the back...tiny covered buttons.....Whew! Valuable lesson. It was beautiful though! pam
Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch) |
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004 Total posts: 3775 |
From: Carol in ME
Date: 10-24-2006, 09:46 PM (20 of 50)
|
Venus, it's been a while since a pair of jeans made my backside look sooo good that I was willing to pay retail for them. My neighbor worked building yachts. A lot of her work involved kneeling or sitting on the non-skid surface of the deck and poly-ing or fiberglassing some other part. I've come to the conclusion that jeans do not need to be patched when (nearly) new ones can be had at Goody's, Sally's, or Connie's. They're up to what? $5 now? (Goodwill, salvation army, consignment, to the parts of the world that don't abbreviate). This is especially true when one buys knowing that they will wear them out quickly. |
User: Carol in ME
Member since: 01-27-2003 Total posts: 105 |
From: diayag
Date: 10-25-2006, 07:44 PM (21 of 50)
|
Be happy when you get it. (and surprised) I made two quilts for newlyweds, one the wife was a total stranger to me, and the other the husband was unknown (lest you think it's male or female to be unappreciative). I am not much of a quilter, more of a "hacker", sewing clothing is more my thing, and these labors of love took enormous amounts of time. I did not get so much as the usual wedding gift thank you card from either couple. People who don't do it don't understand. A coworker once brought in a book with a picture of a fancy knitted vest and asked me if I could knit her one for her birthday (a month or so away) when I was learning to knit. She bought the yarn and instruction book, I was supposed to provide the untold number of hours it was going to take as a gift. She had no idea what she was asking. I never did finish it. There are two ways people respond - either they think homemade/handmade is cheap and simple, or they recognize it as a lost art and are impressed. The first is more common, I think. |
User: diayag
Member since: 01-10-2003 Total posts: 10 |
From: VenusElaine
Date: 10-25-2006, 07:52 PM (22 of 50)
|
Carol, my problem is that I have many otherwise nice jeans (all purchased at the places you mention) with a hole in the right knee. That is the one I kneel on in the fitting room. I patch these, but with wild fabrics, bandanas, etc. I make no effort to hide that it is a patch. Sometimes I add patches where there are no holes just to make them look like they were purchased that way. And I didn't pay $200.00 for them! To get back to sewing for the public, let's face it, most of them will never get it  . We are professionals, just like their mechanic, their plumber, their attorney. We all have different education, talents, skills. But there is a reason we are paid for what we do. I don't tell my plumber how to fix my leaks, my mechanic how to fix my funny noises, or my attorney how to file a lawsuit; that is why I pay them. This time of year I have many people calling me for Halloween costumes. I don't have to tell them I don't have the time or inclination to work for them. I just tell them that custom projects require six to eight weeks unless they want a RUSH (which is 50% additional charge), labor starts at $125.00 per project, not including research, supplies or fabric. I haven't made one in years. VenusElaine "Always put as much effort into your marriage as you do into your wedding."
|
User: VenusElaine
Member since: 10-22-2005 Total posts: 126 |
From: ChoctawCharli
Date: 10-25-2006, 11:01 PM (23 of 50)
|
I used to sew for other people until I realized it was making my health worse! Now, I sew for others only because I want to. I do occasionally sew for in-laws on special occasions or if they need something. But they always ask in plenty of time and are always appreciative. I have one SIL that apparently doesn't like anything I make. So, I am polite, give her a gift card and go on me merry way! Reguarding hubby's holes in pants when you're a pro seamstress -- my Mother, bless her heart, would call that "the carpenter's house". As in, the carpenter builds a beautiful home, while his own falls in around his head! I am ashamed to admit my husband also has a few pairs of "carpenter's" jeans and not the popular kind! hehehe If I could get him to put them in the mending basket, it would help, but he insists on wearing the ^#$* things! In the meantime, I shall sew and embroider what I want, when I want and go merrily along. Oh, and yes - all my College and Air Force awards, diplomas and citations are proudly displayed on my sewing room walls! Below the shelves with all my collectible Barbies, which run right below the ceiling. hehehe CharliAnn
|
User: ChoctawCharli
Member since: 03-10-2005 Total posts: 22 
|
From: kmccrea
Date: 10-26-2006, 01:32 AM (24 of 50)
|
Men just don't understand! Fortunately, mine does accept that I cannot or will not fix everything. Might pout a little, but does accept my prognosis. I do repair those things that are within my power and attitude. I, too do not replace zippers unless it is a special or favorite garment, nor do I salvage them. I'll save the buttons off of old garments, though, if they're nice.
Katherine McCrea
Designer At Large |
User: kmccrea
Member since: 05-07-2006 Total posts: 173 
|
From: kmccrea
Date: 10-26-2006, 01:39 AM (25 of 50)
|
I smile sweetly and politely ask if anyone can do this or if it's so easy, why don't you do it? I'll tell you if this is simple or not and how long it will take (usually longer than what they estimate). The fact that I'm a tailor/custom clothier means I'm educated. I had to learn it from somewhere. I'm not a machine operator. And, for those who want something for nothing: you get what you pay for. Pay for nothing, get nothing. This business requires me to be a diplomat, engineer and stylist all in one, but I love it! Katherine McCrea
Designer At Large |
User: kmccrea
Member since: 05-07-2006 Total posts: 173
|
From: SandyGirl
Date: 10-29-2006, 07:55 PM (26 of 50)
|
You guys made me laugh this evening! Esp about the "darn" socks hitting the trash!! Yep, people don't have a clue. I used to sell cellular in the very early days of the industry. (1988-2001). A plastic surgeon had the gall to ask what I "made" on selling him his car phone (yes, installed back then!!). I smiled and said, "what do you make on a nose job?" He smiled back and said, "ok, I get it!" duh!!!! And he was driving a Porshe! sandy |
User: SandyGirl
Member since: 09-16-2005 Total posts: 97 |
From: Carol in ME
Date: 11-12-2006, 02:10 PM (27 of 50)
|
While most folks will balk at paying "more than the garment cost" to have a repair, I have at least one occasional client who doesn't. She purchases funky clothing at her favorite Goodwill, and has it repaired. It wouldn't work for everyone, but this woman is forty-ish and still has the figure of a very young adult. (If she wasn't so darn nice, it'd be hard to like her) So her philosophy is: if she paid $2.50 for the skirt, and $10 for a new zipper, she's still gotten a deal by scoring a new skirt for $12.50 A skirt that no one else has, (and for that matter, no one else her age could wear) She's quite artistic in her own way, so that helps her to appreciate the effort involved. It's actual work - -it's not just throwing herbs on the fire and waiting for magic. Re; David's bridal. I worked there over the summer, and it was an eye-opening experience. The prices are I think, quite competitive. Not a day went by that i didn't think to myself, "I couldn't make this dress for this price." the alterations were priced accordingly. People complained about it, too. Fortunately, our assistant manager was a decent soul who understood the labor and skill involved to turn out a professional product, and was more than willing to detail that concept to any customer who complained. |
User: Carol in ME
Member since: 01-27-2003 Total posts: 105 |
From: VenusElaine
Date: 11-12-2006, 05:30 PM (28 of 50)
|
Carol, That is a client I could kiss!  (Though not a big sloppy one.) Many of my clients have that attitude, though I have had to educate some of them into it. We have a local store called Gabe's. They sell designer seconds, irregulars and end of season closeouts. Just because they sell a $200.00 pair of designer jeans for $7.99 does not mean that I can replace the broken zipper for any less than if they had paid full retail. They still have the $200 jeans for substantially less after paying the $18.00 I charge for fly zippers. My clients know they can get designer wear that is repaired or altered to fit them perfectly for a lesser price than retail of the garment, which may still need altered. I would welcome more like them every day.  VenusElaine "Always put as much effort into your marriage as you do into your wedding."
|
User: VenusElaine
Member since: 10-22-2005 Total posts: 126 |
From: breezy2560
Date: 11-13-2006, 02:52 PM (29 of 50)
|
There are three of us in our little town that are seamstresses. One does alterations only for the local bridal shop and a few choice clients, one of us does garment construction and alterations and the other rips everyone off. I have dealt with all of the usual persons that each one of you have dealt with, all of which I believe are oxygen deprived. My favorite one was a lady who came to my house in her $200,000 Mercedes and was outraged because I was going to charge her $30 to hem a lined pair of designer pants that still had the $500 price tag on them. She asked if I would do it for $15. I told her she would look rather odd with the lining hanging out from under her newly hemmed pants. Needless to say, she hasn't returned. I know that I have peeved quite a few people off when they pop up and say things like " I didn't have time to do this myself" (and what makes you think I do?) or "it's really simple, I know you can do it" (of course I can, but will I?) and the always favorite "I can get it done somewhere else cheaper" (well, you know how to get there don't you or would you like for me to give you directions?). My dentist's wife is the world's worst, she always makes comments about the cost of something. She quit when I told her it would cost her husband a free 6 month exam when I had to come for one. Debbie |
User: breezy2560
Member since: 11-11-2006 Total posts: 26 |
From: Sew-Enchanting
Date: 11-13-2006, 09:16 PM (30 of 50)
|
Man, I admire anyone who can deal with people with alterations. Especially pants. (shudder) I'll stick with my special occasion dresses (no alterations other than my own, thanks!) and my crafts. I had a woman call me to do alterations on her husband's pants. This is even though my card specifically says "special occasion dresses" on it. So...I tell her I don't do alterations, especially on men's pants. She asks why, and I said that for the price I'd have to charge to make it worth my time, she could probably go buy him some new ones. She got all huffy and demands a quote. I said I sewed dresses and wouldn't even quote her. Then, she says, "Oh, well, my daughter needs her prom dress altered to be her Homecoming dress. How much would you charge?" No comments on what she wanted done...ends up she wanted it hemmed to a miniskirt. From a flouncy prom dress. Some things just aren't worth the money. Like ruining a designer dress to look like a French maid from some porn flick. Ooops...did I write that out loud?  Some people just don't get it. 
Kris
|
User: Sew-Enchanting
Member since: 12-28-2005 Total posts: 53 
|
From: GoGoAndrea
Date: 11-16-2006, 10:28 AM (31 of 50)
|
People are so funny....if they think it's so easy why can't they do it themselves? sheesh! It also occured to me that, despite the fact I have yet to REALLY REALLY jump into making things for other people (I've done a few prom dresses and right now I am making A TON of dancewear)---- I've only ever received compliments and awe at "you MADE that!??! that's so cool, I could never do that!" I think it probably has a lot to do with a much smaller amount of people/kids these days who have mothers that sew...I imagine by the 80s it was cheaper to get discount RTW clothes than to make them. I only ended up picking it up because my mother went to school for fashion (and her mother sews as well), though she only busts out the machine when she needs to. Anyway, my two cents! |
User: GoGoAndrea
Member since: 07-07-2006 Total posts: 43 |
From: paroper
Date: 11-17-2006, 08:11 AM (32 of 50)
|
I wish I had a dollar for every customer who ever walked though the doors that said "I could do it myself but...." There were customers that I had who did sew and I knew that, but there were a lot more that couldn't sew more than a button. I alway s felt a bit put down by people when they'd say that and I didn't enjoy thier projects.
pam
Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch) |
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004 Total posts: 3775 |
From: VenusElaine
Date: 11-18-2006, 06:38 PM (33 of 50)
|
And then there are the customers who freely admit they cannot sew on a button! I have gotten into the stage of my life where I have actually "fired" a customer. Some of them are not worth the time, trouble, and stress they create. One recent termination was a mature woman who unfortunately had scoliosis. When she first came to me, she had run through several seamstresses I know in town (first warning sign ). As we progressed with fittings, she informed me she did not want her skirt hems chalked (second sign - if you want them level on your body, this is the best method). She called one day to complain the a skirt I had hemmed no less than three times (different styles of hems because she could not remember how it was done originally and at no additional charge) was not level because "the serging is messy". I told her that due to her unreasonable expectations I would not be able to satisfy her, and declined to work for her further. She said she had heard that before (I wonder why?). I could see every time she looked in the fitting room mirrors, that she expected the alterations to make her appear "straight", and this was not going to be possible.The way I see it, she is not spending money fruitlessly (at least with me) and I do not have to deal with the angst. VenusElaine "Always put as much effort into your marriage as you do into your wedding."
|
User: VenusElaine
Member since: 10-22-2005 Total posts: 126 |
From: paroper
Date: 11-19-2006, 12:05 PM (34 of 50)
|
While I was in college I was hired by a local salesperson to fit/sell corrective shoes for children. Our clients were sent by well-known orthopedists and poditrists throughout the city and we were to fit according to the individual doctor's directions. The saddest fitting I ever did was for a 14 yr old young lady who had club feet. The mother berated her the whole time we were looking for a shoe to fit her poor feet. The reason? Her shoes took on the shape of her feet and that made them UGLY. It was soooo sad.
pam
Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch) |
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004 Total posts: 3775 |
From: VenusElaine
Date: 12-08-2006, 09:14 PM (35 of 50)
|
Pam, That is so ironic! The woman that owns my business also owns a shoe store (comfort, but stylish) and a shoe repair/modification business. We are all housed in the same storefront. Because I am her "right hand" I know more about shoes than I care to, especially when I would rather not wear them! (True WV Hillbilly!) VenusElaine "Always put as much effort into your marriage as you do into your wedding."
|
User: VenusElaine
Member since: 10-22-2005 Total posts: 126 |
From: VenusElaine
Date: 04-15-2007, 07:24 PM (36 of 50)
|
It is now "formal" season again, and I thought I would bump this thread. My employer relocated our space last month, and I am still trying to organize my entire workroom in addition to fulfilling my production schedule. My "regulars" still expect consideration, while the people who have newly discovered me must be educated. It is full-on prom and bridal season. I am booked for the next six weeks solid, and beyond (into October) for certain dates. NO, I cannot hem your jeans for tomorrow! NO, it is not "easy", "simple", "CHEAP!" This is indeed another VENT. I am tired and am getting very cranky. Thank you ladies, for an outlet. VenusElaine "Always put as much effort into your marriage as you do into your wedding."
|
User: VenusElaine
Member since: 10-22-2005 Total posts: 126 |
From: paroper
Date: 04-15-2007, 08:12 PM (37 of 50)
|
My 6 yr old son was hit by a car doing 59 mph 13 years ago last week! I had 5 wedding to make brides' maid dresses for over the next 4 weeks when it happened. The first wedding had 6 dress and the most difficult Vogue dress (35 pieces per dress) that I had ever done plus hand beading! I was a total wreck, staying with him at the hospital as he came through intensive care. I would take the dresses with me when I went hospital so I could hand work and then come home and sew (someone say sleep?) during the day. It was tough. I was in the end of school choir and Halloween season when my dad went into intensive care and died the following fall. It is sometimes hard to keep a business going when you're a one man show! I can relate!
pam
Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch) |
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004 Total posts: 3775 |
From: flossieblossie
Date: 04-16-2007, 10:30 AM (38 of 50)
|
My mum was tailoress from being 14 and has sewn at home for a living (dancing costumes and wedding gowns)since i was young up until the year before last (at 62). She finished as she was basically hacked off with her clients. She did have some lovely ones but it seemed that an increasing number of horrible people were making their way to her. There were the ones that looked down their noses at her and said "oh yes, i can sew but i just don't have the time and inclination". There were the ones that had come to her for a number of years that all of a sudden expected to be able to pay her weeks after they had collected the costume, and those that made her feel bad for charging what she charged as they believed it was 'easy'. Most expected her to trail around for the fabric (as they were WAY too busy!), and didn't want to have to pay a deposit for the materials that mum would have to buy. Shes sad to see her pocket money go, but glad to see the back of the hassle. It has taken her 18 months to be able to sit back at the sewing machine after i talked her into starting to quilt. It's lovely to see her now spending the time doing projects that she's always wanted to do!!! |
User: flossieblossie
Member since: 03-30-2007 Total posts: 2 |
From: plrlegal
Date: 04-16-2007, 11:09 AM (39 of 50)
|
What your mom went through is precisely what made me decide to not sew for the general public. I tried it for a very short time and know right away that it wasn't for me. I don't even sew for family unless it's something I want to make for them as a gift. Patsy Patsy
|
User: plrlegal
Member since: 05-19-2001 Total posts: 318 |
From: SummersEchos
Date: 04-16-2007, 11:38 AM (40 of 50)
|
Since I work at a fabric store, I think I have heard and seen quite a bit. I have listen to a seamstress with clients and I myself would never have that kind of patience. Some of their clients are down right rude, and expect all this work for next to nothing. I have at times said that the clients really need a reality check on sewing something so intense as a wedding party or prom dresses. I believe it takes someone special to sew for others, and they have the patience to go with it.
Summer
FREE FALLIN |
User: SummersEchos
Member since: 09-29-2004 Total posts: 884 |
From: paroper
Date: 04-16-2007, 12:01 PM (41 of 50)
|
The one that used to just eat me up with the phrase "I could do that but I just don't have the TIME!" It demeans what you are doing, and how do you know that you could do it as well? It also rather indicates that your time is not as valuable as theirs! Although I got all the want it yesterday people when working for the corporate world, that used to rather bother me...those that thought that doing their work didn't take any time. pam
Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch) |
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004 Total posts: 3775 |
From: Helen Weiss
Date: 04-16-2007, 02:02 PM (42 of 50)
|
Great thread! I've had a most interesting experience with my alterations business this past year. For 5 years the business, meant to be part time as I was still working outside my home, grew steadily, until last June when I had to abruptly stop because of inflamation in my right hand due to arthritis and tendonitis. I sent out 85 letters to customers explaining that I would be taking a leave for 6 months. I recommended another seamtress to whom I had spoken about taking over my clientel. In January I retired from my part time job and decided that I could resume doing some alterations if I paced myself and kept my client list at a more manageable number. I sent out 20 letters to clients that I really liked who appreciated my work and never complained about my pricing. After three months I'm happier in my business than I have ever been. I'm in control and I have no concerns about pricing. I might add that I raised my prices a little, put a pretty framed price list in my fitting room and make sure that I tell people what their bill is when I call them to say that the job is ready for pick up. What started out as being a most upsetting incident has turned out to be the best thing that could have happened in terms of my business. I have also had to tell my clientel that I cannot do rush jobs and that since I have to limit the amount of sewing I do at a stretch, the turn around might be slow. I'm sorry this is so long, but I think I learned an important lesson through all of this. The people who came back to me all said that my work was superior to the seamstress whom I had recommended, and are more than happy to pay the difference. I've never been happier in my little business, and interestingly I seem to be making as much money with no stress. sewhappy
|
User: Helen Weiss
Member since: 10-16-2003 Total posts: 69 |
From: Grandma M
Date: 04-18-2007, 01:16 AM (43 of 50)
|
I rencently made dresses for hire for a wedding. The ladies were very nice (they were not paying-brides mom paid). Often I had wondered if a sewing business was for me. I really got tired of making the same dress over and over. The bride couldn't make up her mind about different choices. Not one of the six ladies in the bridal party was an average size. When the dresses were completed I was very glad and knew sewing for hire was not for me. I worked for sewing machine dealer last year. People wanted sewing done on the store machines on the spot for free. After all the machines are right there. You are a very special lady to be so talented and patient with the bad manners and ingorance of others. |
User: Grandma M
Member since: 04-17-2007 Total posts: 1 |
From: Sancin
Date: 04-18-2007, 03:15 AM (44 of 50)
|
The one that used to just eat me up with the phrase "I could do that but I just don't have the TIME!" . Well Pam, I would never demean you. I think you are great, but I have used that phrase when I was working 80 hours a week teaching nursing for years!! Having usually made my own clothes I find finding what I want in the quality I want in RTW very frustrating - especially the fabrics. I am aware of what a good dressmaker/sewist is worth and don't mind paying the costs - if I could find somebody. And I organize well in advance as to when I want something. I always ask who ever is sewing if they have time and how much time before asking them to start anything. I did have someone make several outfits for me around the time of a graduation but must admit, I didn't wear several of the items. Her skills were not as great as those who recommended her to me thought they were. I would never think to ask someone to interline a dress collar,assuming it would be done automatically, but she didn't. I am surprised you would even consider carrying on when your son was injured. I would have been prostate with worry. Others don't necessarily carry on. My hairdresser's wife died 3 days before my wedding and I only found out the day before. I didn't expect any apologies and did scramble to find someone else, who put bleach into my colouring and my hair turned orange on my honeymoon, but that is another story. Fortunately I have never had long hair or went into some of the exotic styles I see this time of year when I am at the hair dresser. *~*~*~* Nancy*~*~*~* " I try to take one day at a time - but sometimes several days attack me at once."
|
User: Sancin
Member since: 02-13-2005 Total posts: 895
|
From: grandma C
Date: 05-08-2007, 01:15 PM (45 of 50)
|
Ladies, I was considering sewing as my second career after I retire from my sonographer/x-ray technologist career. I planned to get the additional education that I need to be an excellent seamstress/designer. Is it worth the outlay for the necessary equipment and education. I suspect that since I am 58 years old that I have about 10 good years of productivity left, maybe more. In my current profession we get the same sort of disrespect from our patients and even some of the other hospital staff. I have as much education as the more educated RN and that is nothing to sneeze at. This world is just full of rude people wanting something for nothing and they are not worth getting upset over. They look the same sitting on the pot as I do, and they put their pants on the same way also. |
User: grandma C
Member since: 01-15-2007 Total posts: 263 |
From: paroper
Date: 05-08-2007, 01:32 PM (46 of 50)
|
It kind of depends on what you do and how you intend to do it. You are taking something that you do to relax and use as a creative outlet and turning it into WORK with deadlines, ungrateful customers, etc. It is difficult to find an area of sewing where you can actually make money. You still need to treat it like a JOB with REAL HOURS and time dedicated to doing it. IN my case, I was raising a family and still doing 10-12 hours a day sewing...my sewing hours were sandwiched so that there were many nights that I didn't sleep so that I could have time with my family and still keep up with the work load. The first thing I would recommend is to find a place to market your wares where you don't have to deal directly with the public. The less personal contact you have the better. So that if you sell items to a boutique and can make a enough doing that to make you happy, that is perfect. The second area that I would look at is that if you are going to have personal contact with the public, your sewing not be hands on...in other words, don't sew GARMENTS that have to be custom fitted, unless you are doing alterations. That takes a lot of the satisfaction problems out. Most people have some fitting issues...and many of those who will come to you are already frusterated with fitting. You can CERTAINLY recoup your initial investment through tax refunds and deductions but it is over a period of years..however, I must say, that all my equipment was repaid in full..that was fantastic...on the other hand, the initial investment was "ouch". If I had it to do all over again, I would consider using commercial grade sewing equipment. At the time, it didn't occur to me and I didn't realize what a risk I was running as my warranties wouldn't have been worth anything if my equipment back then had counters on them..I averaged between 17-25 garments many weeks. Although 17 was a pretty comfortable rate for me. If I were to take a home machine in with that kind of hours on it, they would immediately void my warranty. Honestly, if the truth be known, if you can get a large enough share of the market, you would probably make better money to buy a crossover embroidery machine and do that at home. Although certainly there are times when you run into people who are unhappy with the embroidered items, it is seldom as difficult to please them compared to the fitting and other problems you can run into with sewing. pam
Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch) |
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004 Total posts: 3775 |
From: grandma C
Date: 05-10-2007, 10:48 AM (47 of 50)
|
Pam, you are so kind to reply so soon. I had thought of your suggestion already to get an embroidery machine and do that from home. I don't know what a "crossover" is. You are correct about dealing with the public. I have done it since 1969 and sometimes my mouth has caused me trouble. My husband and I ride an older luxury motorcycle and he belongs to "Christian Motorcycle Assoc.". In order to participate in the rides and such on a limited income we considered outfitting a trailor with an embroidery machine and an industrial sewing machine. we would take orders and embroider emblems at the gatherings. Also we would sew chaps and simple leather vests and denim vests.. Perhaps making repairs also. You know when you find yourself near retirement and no money to speak of, well one grasps at straws. My husband and I would work side by side. Is this an unreasonable Idea in your opinion. Belinda |
User: grandma C
Member since: 01-15-2007 Total posts: 263 |
From: paroper
Date: 05-10-2007, 12:06 PM (48 of 50)
|
No, I don't actually. What I mean by a crossover machine is a small industrial/home machine like the PR600 6 needle by Brother or its recent replacement. There is the Happy 12 needle that is being sold in many Bernina stores, Great Notions makes 12 needle Renanance (sp?) machine and there is a machine called an SMF (or somthing of that nature that I've recently heard a lot about. Most of these run about what you would spend on a high-end combo machine but would be considered as a small commercial machine. Some even allow for more than one machine to be hooked up to and operated through a central computer should you really start to take off. If you are doing this is a mobile home, some of the problems with weight and having them serviced might not be an issue as you would have it ready to transport to a dealer if you did have problems. The biggest thing is finding a paying audience who likes/wants your work. I would think that being connected to a motorcycle group would be a wonderful way to bridge that gap, esp some of these groups are quite large, loyal and very active! (My son went on a poker run this weekend. He said there were about 100 bikes...that would be ready revenue). pam
Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch) |
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004 Total posts: 3775 |
From: grandma C
Date: 05-11-2007, 02:27 AM (49 of 50)
| thanks Pam! |
User: grandma C
Member since: 01-15-2007 Total posts: 263 |
From: VenusElaine
Date: 07-01-2007, 05:46 PM (50 of 50)
|
Belonging to the motorcycle club gives you an excellent first clientele, providing you have the machine to sew and repair leather. I have sewn patches, shortened and lengthened riding pants and chaps, and repaired every type of riding gear imaginable. Additionally, I have always found bikers were appreciative of my skill; never condescending or degrading; and never complained about the price. They were just happy to find someone who could accomplish their desires. And they tip well. VenusElaine "Always put as much effort into your marriage as you do into your wedding."
|
User: VenusElaine
Member since: 10-22-2005 Total posts: 126 |
Visit Sew What’s Up for the latest sewing and quilting tips and discussions.
This page was originally located on Sew What’s New (www.sew-whats-new.com) at http://www.sew-whats-new.com/vb/archive/index.php/t-20490.html
Sew What’s Up is hosted by ZenSoft