FAQs
How much does an alteration cost?
The alteration cost for a certain garment is based fairly on the time it takes to complete the alteration(s) and/or overall changes to the garment.
What is the service fee?
JL Sews service fee starts from $25 - $75 and up. This accounts for In - House services such as alterations fitting, pick-up and drop off, that require traveling a distance. In addition, alterations are priced for each service needed and/or wanted. For instance, the cost for a hem alteration can range from $5 - $200 depending on the difficulty of the garment, how many layers, and how much time it requires to finish the alterations. Travel charges may apply.
Do I need to book an appointment?
Yes. To ensure that you are on the books for a certain date and time, this will allow that blocked time to be yours, as well as avoiding double booking. The turnaround time for booking appointments is four to eight weeks (31 - 56 days) prior to your event/wear date. This is to guarantee the right fit and to be sure the alterations are fitted to your liking. By doing so, this also allows for corrections and other additional alterations to be made. A rush fee may be charged, if the garment needs alterations close to the event/wear date.
What happens at a consultation?
At a consultation, we will talk about the garment(s) and what can and cannot be done with it, wear date, pricing, and whether or not to set up an appointment with JL Sews. To guarantee the best advice and desired fit, setting up a(n) appointment or meeting can be the way to find out what alterations/enhancements can and cannot be made to a garment or item.
What types of alterations can be made to a suit?
There are many alterations that can be done to a suit. The three types of suit fittings are classic, slim, or modern fit. Classic fit is a regular fit that is not too baggy but at the same time comfortable. A slim fit is much narrower and hugs the body, somewhat tightly. The last type of suit fitting is a modern fit, which is a perfect balance combination of both the classic and slim fit. Not too loose, not too tight, yet still comfortable and able to breath and move around freely. Any other alterations or enhancements to a suit can be done depending on if the garment allows it so, as well if JL Sews is capable of seeing to it.
Is there any way to make a garment bigger?
Depending on the garment itself and how much needs to be let out, if the garment has enough seam allowance to do so, then it can be done. If not, there are options such as gussets, corsets, panels, etc. that can be done to get the desired look and fit.
What alterations can be done to a wedding gown?
Alterations on a wedding gown depends on what you want, and what can be done to get the perfect look. Common alterations that brides get consist of taking in the sides, shortening the bodice, altering the back of the gown, hemming the skirt to a desired length, Shortening the strap and many more. A bustle is an option that brides often decide on having done to their wedding gown. A bustle is where the excess fabric (train) of the gown is picked up a certain way typically done for reception time. This allows the bride to dance, hug people, avoid gown getting stepped on, but most importantly, move freely.
Is it possible to change the style of the dress?
It is possible to change the style of the garment if the garment allows it to do so. Keep in mind that sometimes, when changing the style of a garment may or may not change the internal and overall structure of the garment, unless your seamstress says otherwise.
Can you alter a garment that already has been altered elsewhere?
Yes. JL Sews can alter a garment that already had been altered elsewhere. If you are not satisfied with another’s work, JL Sews could take a look at it and see if anything can be done.
What is expected to happen in the first alterations fitting?
Before the first fitting, a client is reminded to bring all the essential they will be wearing the day of the event; footwear to ensure the desired length, undergarments such as a certain bra, corset, or shapewear to be worn with the gown, and to make it an even special fitting, bringing some jewelry or veil/headpiece to make it even more memorable and a wonderful first alterations fitting. Furthermore, when at the first fitting, a seamstress will work carefully with the client to ensure the perfect and desired look. After pinning for alterations and taking measurements, we will discuss and go over the pricing and costs for alterations and further steps like deciding the next appointment for either a second alterations fitting, or a drop-off/pick-up.
Should I expect a second alterations fitting?
You should only expect a second alterations fitting if the altered garment doesn't fit right, it is not to your liking, and/or if there are any additional alterations/enhancements to be made or wanted. During a second alterations fitting, JL Sews recommends that you try on the garment to ensure quality fit. Also, this time is to allow for corrections to be addressed, any additional alterations or enhancements made, and to see if you are happy with the overall results.
Are you able to repair and/or mend damaged clothing?
JL Sews is able to repair and/or mend certain damaged clothing. Simple fixes such as replacing a button, hook and eye, or repairing an open or torn seam can be done. Gussets can be added as well for reinforcement.
What is the best advice you can give to ensure the garment you are finding the right size and will get the results you are looking for?
When looking for a great fit, there are key areas to focus on. Firstly, getting something that is not too tight on you is the first step. Next, focusing on the areas that are the hardest to fit will ensure the desired fit, just leave the rest to your seamstress or tailor. Keep in mind that if you want to let out a certain garment, the seam allowance determines whether or not the piece could be let out.
Do you take rushes with tight deadlines?
Depending on what type of alterations and/or enhancements need and want to be done to your garment, JL Sews can take rushes with a tight deadline. If the alterations are difficult and/or would require more time to pass the event/wear date to ensure quality and desired look, a rush may or may not be accommodated.