The Process
how we work together

Initial Consultation

The first step is for me to spend some time with you discussing your ideas. You can bring in photos, sketches, fabric swatches, or anything else you might have to help share your vision with me. I will ask plenty of questions, offer some suggestions, and unless you have brought one, I'll put together a sketch to help make sure that I have a clear understanding of your ideas. We'll discuss your budget, your time frame, possible fabric selections, and other details that will impact the construction of your garment. I'll also take your measurements at this initial meeting. Usually, I'm able to provide a price estimate for you by the end of this consultation (occasionally, I may have to research fabric or material costs and in that case I may give you an estimate for labor only, with the material cost to follow). If the design and the price are both agreeable to you, I'll have you sign off on our design notes as well as my business policies and I'll collect a deposit from you before beginning my work.

Fabrics/ materials selections

In general, it's best for both of us to approve any materials to be used in your garment. If you wish to provide fabrics, I will give you guidance on which fabrics are best suited to the garment you've requested. If you prefer that I locate and purchase the fabrics for you, I will make an effort to present you with swatches to approve before making the purchase. In some instances, it may be possible for us to shop for fabrics together.

Construction fittings

During the construction of your garment, we'll schedule one or more fitting appointments. In some cases, I will fit a muslin to you prior to beginning work with the fashion fabrics that will be used in your garment. The greater the complexity of your garment, the more fittings it's likely that we'll need; but generally you can expect to have at least one and not more than five. At each fitting, I will work to ensure the best fit and drape of your garment. I will also ask you additional questions to ensure that the garment which is taking shape meets your expectations and our agreement. Please note - I request that you minimize the number of friends or relatives that you bring along to fittings, and that you make arrangements for any young children unless we have agreed otherwise ahead of time. Any distractions can make it more difficult for us to discuss your thoughts and the progress of your garment. Also, please note that it is your responsibility to keep the fitting appointments you have agreed to. If for any reason you need to reschedule a fitting, bear in mind that it may delay the completion date for your garment.

Design changes

In some instances, you might be inspired to change our original design once you see the garment in progress. This flexibility is one of the beautiful benefits of having a garment custom made for you! Whenever possible, I will have you sign off on a design revision so that there is no confusion regarding your final decisions for the piece. Sometimes, design changes may be minor, such as raising a hemline before the hem has been finished, and in these cases I will make the revisions at no additional cost to you. Where design changes require additional materials or labor, the cost of the garment may increase. If this is the case, I will provide you with a revised estimate for your approval before moving forward with the design change.

Final fitting

Your vision has become a reality! When your garment is complete, we'll have a final appointment for you to try it on and make sure everything fits right, looks right, and achieves the design for your garment. With your acceptance of the finished garment, I'll collect the balance due and you can take your custom garment with you!