Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties

Deciding when to alter a garment - educating the customer

2012-01-28T14:33:00.000-05:00

Men slacks with shorten cuffed hem

Jean hem shorten to look like original

Throughout the course of a day or week, I receive a variety of phone calls from clients looking to have a variety of alteration work done. It ranges from a simple hem to replacing thick leather jacket type zippers, among the many other type of inquiries.

Unfortunately I cannot possibly know for certain what each item will cost until I see the garment/item. But, for those who are ready to run over with the basket of clothing or a pair of jeans they just received at an incredible deal, I share with them that my hems range starting around $20. For some this is too much. But, what it does do is allow them to take a look at what they have and decide if the cost outweighs the value of their garment/item.

This provides me the opportunity to educate my potential client. Using jeans as my example; depending on how much of a hem change needs to be made on the jeans, depends on how much time is involved. It's not always about cutting and hemming, but rather removing the secure jean type stitching, measuring and remeasuring to make sure I am placing the hem where the client has chosen for the length they chose to wear them at.

There is more to a hem than sitting at a machine and stitching. These are the steps for pant hems (not including overhead costs):

meet with the client - sometimes they have already pinned the garment and other times I need to spend 15 min fitting to the shoe height they desire to wear their pants with.
determine if the hem can be cut off, or stitches need to be removed
if applicable, remove the old stitching
cut the excess off
refold, add bias tape, etc...whatever is needed to prepare for the new hem
either machine stitch, jean stitch, blind stitch or hand stitch in place.
put thread into machine and replace needle to make sure there are no burrs to snag material from over-use of a previous order (or thread a needle if hand stitching)
press the hem
double check to make sure the length is accurate
create their invoice, email (sometimes followed up with a phone call) and schedule a meeting for them to try on and pick up their garment(s)
hang garment(s) and clean up to prepare for next sewing or alteration job.

Not everyone is willing to value the work that goes into making their garment fit them well, as they look at the cost they paid and subconsiously have decided what they are willing to pay. Yet some will take the time and rationalize that "well, I paid $120 for these dress slacks, I want them done well", or "I got a great deal, it is worth the extra that I saved to get the length I need", etc. While others will not take the time to understand that my time is invested on their behalf so that they look great! People work hard for their earnings and there's nothing more discouraging when, no matter how much or little, realize that their awesome deal will cost them more than a few dollars to fit well.

My goal as a seamstress, whether creating from materials and patterns, heirlooms from a wedding gown, applying military patches or even the basics of hemming jeans and replacing zippers, is to provide a quality service that makes the customer leave knowing that I care about how they look or feel about their final product.

I want my customers to feel good about the value of service they are receiving from my seamstress skills.

Laura
Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties
~ Putting Thread to Fabric ~

SHOPPING FOR YOUR GARMENTS

2011-11-21T04:11:00.001-05:00

Some tips in shopping for garments – from budgeting to fit

1. Go with a plan and/or color scheme.

a. What are your goals: accessories, basic pants, something new, a new wardrobe, shoes, etc. Go with a plan, leaving a little flexibility for that occasional awesome deal you happen to find.

b. Bring with you either a color wheel, a small purse file of fabric color samples that you wear often, along with an idea/list of what colors you are trying to acquire or compliment from your current wardrobe.

c. Plan ahead of time your budget and spending limit. Then first focus on the items that are on your focus list. If you still have plenty left to play with after finding the key items, then use the remaining funds to compliment what you are purchasing or what you already have in your wardrobe.

2. Choosing your store

a. I tend to enjoy shopping at Kohls for most of my wardrobe accessories because of the variety they offer, great sales and the best in pricing for clearance items. But, that doesn’t mean one should focus on one store. So, select the store(s) you enjoy shopping, then, be willing to expand outside your comfort zone into new stores to check out the amazing styles that you would have otherwise missed out on.

b. If it is in your budget for spending, and you find one top that captures your eye, take the time to try it on. If it fits and looks amazing, albeit it may limit any further purchases, be mindful of the overall benefit you might obtain from that one purchase.

· It fits and look amazing

· You know that you can wear it more than once

· It compliments your skin tone and hair color

· It compliments your figure

c. Even if you only find one item while out on your shopping trip, continue to browse and check out how the stores display the mix of texture and styles. Think creatively as to how you might be able to do that with what you already have in your own closet.

3. Utilize the Fitting Room

a. What looks amazing on a hanger might not look so amazing on you. I’ve tried on clothing that I thought would look great, but once I tried it on I was not so impressed. The fit, the cut, the color, and how it actually feels and looks on you will not be obvious on the hanger. Sometimes, if the garment was not correctly cut right, it will feel awkward on you.

b. While in the fitting room, make sure everything is secure, such as buttons, snaps, zippers, trim, etc. Decide if it is still worth purchasing to later have it fixed. Some stores, if you ask, will provide an additional discount to help defray the cost of the repair.

c. As you try on your garments, those you immediately dislike how it looks or feels on you, put aside on one side of the fitting room. Those that make you feel great and fit well, put them on the other side of the fitting room as your “yes” items. Now, those you are not too sure about, either try on again after you have gone through the other garments to make a final decision, or put with the garments you have determined did not fit or look well on you. Anything you have a questionable feeling about in the dressing room, runs the risk of taking up space in your closet and to never be worn.

d. If you shop with a friend, spouse or child be brave and ask their opinion. I have found that my daughters and husband to be quite honest. Make sure you shop with a friend who is honest. Remember, your clothing purchase is an investment towards your wardrobe in which you want to look great in

Some tips in shopping for garments – from budgeting to fit

1. Go with a plan and/or color scheme.

a. What are your goals: accessories, basic pants, something new, a new wardrobe, shoes, etc. Go with a plan, leaving a little flexibility for that occasional awesome deal you happen to find.

2. Choosing your store

b. If it is in your budget for spending, and you find one top that captured your eye, take the time to try it on. If it fits and looks amazing, albeit it may limit any further purchases, be mindful of the overall benefit you might obtain from that one purchase.

· It fits and look amazing

· You know that you can wear it more than once

· It compliments your skin tone and hair color

· It compliments your figure

3. Utilize the Fitting Room

4. Basics versus accessories

a. Some basics, but not limited to, would be a basic dress, skirt, blouse, pants, etc. Something that you can mix and match with other pieces to create a variety of looks.

b. The “basic black” dress might actually be “basic brown” for some. What you are looking for in the basics is the simple line, a great fit, a color without distracting flowers or other designs. So keep your basics simple.

5. Accessory items

a. If you are looking to accessorize a dress, wear the dress to the store(s) so that you can try on belts, scarves, jackets, etc.

b. Bored with your basic suit that is well made with plenty of life? Wear this suit shopping and look at a few different blouses/shirts that have color or a design that strikes your eye yet matches the basic suit. By the way, this works for men as well.

c. For men who are not comfortable with a design in their shirts, check out the ties. Today there are some amazing colors and designs that can change a boring look to a striking one.

d. Belts can make a drastic change on how your garment looks. A simple classic dress that you wear to work with or without a simple belt, can transform to a new look for going out to dinner. For men, just having a new belt that is not worn can sharpen up your look from denim jeans to your dress slacks.

e. Scarves can add a new dimension to your waist or neckline. There are many options on how to wear a scarf, but try it on and play with it. See how you feel wearing it. Does it feel too bulky or make your waist look fuller than you had imagined, then despite how beautiful it is, you can decide if you still want it to wear or use as a decorative scarf for your home décor.

6. As you go to the check-out - Re-evaluate your items.

a. Will you wear them?

b. Will your items go with or compliment your current wardrobe or fit into your new adventurous look?

c. Is it something that makes you feel good and know that you will wear. it There's nothing better than having something new to perk you and your wardrobe up.

d. If you are purchasing things that need alterations, are you financially prepared for the cost? Or can you alter them yourself so that the cost fits into your overall wardrobe budget?

e. Check the care tags. Can they be easily cared for? Do they need to be ironed, hand washed, dry cleaned? Do these items fit into your time frame for cleaning as well as budget if they need to be dry cleaned?

f. Does the store have a return policy? Sometimes we shop on the way home from work or an appointment and we don’t have our colors in mind. When you get home, check to make sure you will wear the garments. If you didn’t try them on, make sure you try them on when you get home. If you get home and find that it really doesn’t work well for you, then put back in the bag with your receipt and return as soon as you are able to return to the store.

Have fun shopping, enjoy your new wardrobe and look amazing with confidence!

Laura

Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties

~ Putting Thread to Fabric ~

The Wrong Way To Hem

2011-10-20T04:02:00.000-04:00

As we all try to stretch our dollars to make them go farther, there are times when one can actually be wasting them.

Recently I have been getting a variety of phone calls in reference to how much it costs to have a pair of pants hemmed. The cost ranges based on what type of hem, type of fabric, whether they are lined, etc. Pant hem costs can range from $18 to $35, sometimes more (yet rare), depending on what is entailed.

For many of my clients, this is a small price to pay for a pair of pants to fit them the way that fits their life-style, along with the ability to gravitate towards them when selecting what to wear for the day. For other first time clients who are in need of hiring a seamstress/tailor, the price is too high.

But, for those who are trying to save financially, here are some of the things that they are doing to keep costs down, along with the cost of their choice:

Not hemming and allowing their pants to drag on the ground. This causes more damage than it’s worth. If all you need is a 1” hem, by allowing them to drag, you are actually destroying the ability to have the hem fixed at a later time, at the proper length. Also, it looks sloppy. If you are in the position for a job, and it comes down to two candidates, the one with the pant hem dragging will be seen as sloppy and unorganized.
Using Duct Tape. This is a great option when you are a teen who is creating their own “look” that is worn to school as an expression of themself, around town or around the home. It is not a great temporary fix for jeans or dress slacks that you wear to different functions and work. Actually it will cost you more in the long run, as it will leave residue on your pants that is extremely difficult to remove, if at all. If it can be hemmed, by removing the duct tape, cutting the hem then folding up before stitching, it will cost more. The seamstress/tailor will need to calculate in the cost of the needle, because it is certain that his/her needle will be destroyed after working on your one pair of pants due to the sticky residue left, making it non-usable for future jean hems that might be in his/her pile of repairs. There will be more work involved in hemming your pants that you might decide to just purchase a new pair.
Using Self-adhesive Velcro. I don’t know why this approach was taken, but I received a desperate call for help with the caller asking what she could do. She was left with Velcro backing on part of her pants that she was having a difficult time removing. The best advice would be to take them to the cleaners to see if they can remove the residue. I personally will not provide the service to remove it. When asked how much I would charge, I gave her my rate, with an “approximate” cost (since I did not know what was entailed). I was told that she only $25 on her pants. This $25 pair of pants has now cost the client the cost of Velcro, time to iron on, time to remove, time to put through the washer, frustration/panic time, possible dry-cleaner time, with the possibility of having to toss a brand new pair of pants out to the landfill.
This new product called “Style Snaps” I have seen this product advertised but have not used it myself. I did have a client call me to alter her pants because the product did not work out for her, as the product did not adhere and stay put. Still, I will not say the product doesn’t work, because I have not used it, yet have no intention of trying it either. There is a reason that it is said “If it seems too good to be true, it probably is”.
Cuff your pants. This is not an uncommon decision for those who found their $10 jeans, they just purchased, on clearance. Many times I recommend that they return them and purchase the right size at the correct length if they don’t like the cuffed look.

My reason for writing this is to educate. I have no desire to make one feel as though their ideas are bad, or to make them feel they need to use my services.

The cost of purchasing a pair of slacks that are too long can include the travel time and alteration cost. You could spend valuable time trying different quick fixes resulting in your need to toss them or decide to pay for the service so you can wear them. Another option would be to have a family member or friend do the work as a favor (some are very good). Or, let them hang in your closet a few years until you finally toss them out while you purchase a few more.

In today’s economy, it is wiser to purchase a sufficient amount of pants to get you through until your next wash day. If you find a pair that fit well except for the length it is wise to have them hemmed.

Just like any job, any task you undertake takes a certain amount of time, which comes at a cost. A seamstress/tailor, who is running a business, carries a certain amount of overhead including paying the taxes associated with it, which needs to be calculated into their costs or it becomes a hobby. A hobby doesn’t pay the bills.

One way you can save on your alteration cost: We all know that many retailers have sales. We also know that retailers do not make a size that fits all, more often for women. Consider waiting for the sale and use the savings towards the cost of the alteration. But, don’t value the cost of your alteration on the cost you paid. The goal is to look great in that fabulous pair of pants that makes you feel great wearing them.

Laura
Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties
~ Putting Thread to Fabric ~

What can be done to my Wedding Gown???

2011-07-07T13:17:00.000-04:00

Can a gown be taken out? Generally, with today’s off the rack styles, it is rare that there is sufficient seam allowance to do this. I highly recommend NOT doing this if your gown only has a 5/8” seam. It is better to find a gown that is slightly too big than to purchase something too small. NOTE: Always purchase a size based on your largest measurement!

It is important for clients to understand, that albeit opening up seams and creating a larger garment can be done, it is an expensive alteration request and there is no guarantee the dress will look like the original, as you have are now adding new seam lines. So, with that in mind, here are a few options for taking your gown out:

I have added more room to a variety of gowns when the client has provided the same fabric so proper gussets can be added.

Some clients have brought me an identical gown for me to use the material to create the necessary gusset.
Or taking your gown to a quality fabric store or contacting the manufacturer of your gown and acquiring matching fabric
Occasionally I will provide the service to search for the fabric.

Add a Corset - Another option many of my clients have requested is to add a corset in the back. Corsets allow for slight fluctuations in body size. This can be expensive as well; depending on what specifically is entailed. But all my clients that have requested this service have been very pleased with the results.

Matching or contrasting fabric needs to be acquired, along with the notions.
The tie ribbon & loops can also be created when they can not be found already made. This happens frequently with so many varied fabric textures and colors

Can you add a Modesty Panel? Modesty panels are becoming a common request due to the many styles of gowns that have a very low cleavage cut. Whether wedding or prom, many of the girls want their dads to see them in a more modest style, and others find it to be more flattering while not having to worry if too much is showing.

What type of bustles can be done? Every dress & client is different. There are many options to a bustle. When the client has her dress on, I look at how the dress fits her, how it flows, etc. Then I discuss with them what they envision their bustle to look as well as how they would like it to function. If they have an idea in mind, I will pin the bustle to show them how it looks. If I see another possibility, I will show them that look as well, so that they are able to determine which bustle suits them best. The goal is to find what is appropriate for the style of the dress as well as the wearer of the gown.

Is there any other option other than a bustle? Certainly.

You can remove the train and create a straight hem for your gown. This is a great option for the bride who doesn’t want things to be too complicated on her wedding day. Discuss how this will be achieved with your seamstress, to be sure it is the style you desire.
Ask your seamstress to create a special wristlet made with fabric from your dress or a soft, matching fabric. You can request one that is beaded, possibly using beads you provide. This is a nice option for the moderate trained dress, allowing you to comfortably wear the loop while you dance, or when walking around, yet lets you decide when you want to let the dress hang naturally for pictures.

What other things can I do to my gown? This is generally done for the one who wants their gown to be unique and different from anyone else who might wear the same dress.

Add/Remove trim and/or beading
Add/Remove sleeves
Add/Remove hem embellishments
Add/Remove embellishments throughout the dress
Add heirloom pieces into your gown (“something old”)

The options are endless. Just discuss what it is you would like to have done with your seamstress. A good seamstress will be open to your ideas and will discuss the pros/cons of how it will affect the look of your dress or whether it will work with the fabric and style of your dress. But ultimately, the decision is yours.

Bridal, Prom & Other Formal Wear Alterations – What to Expect & What Will it Cost

2011-06-25T16:30:00.001-04:00

Bridal, Prom & Other Formal Wear Alterations – What to Expect & What Will it Cost

By Laura D. Field of Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties

As a seamstress, there is nothing better than seeing a client leave with a smile knowing that you made their garment fit them the way they envisioned it to fit. It’s a joy to see that the final look is flattering on them as well as makes them feel beautiful.

My services include a large variety of alterations and custom sewing, but this article is about altering the gowns. The client is either arriving with a gown they spent many hours shopping for, an heirloom gown that was passed down to them, or having to wear a dress that was selected for them (re: bridesmaids). My goal as a seamstress is to provide a fit that works for the dress and client. Many times they have an idea of what they want, and as a team, I work with my client to reach their goal. Sometimes, I might make a few suggestions, and sometimes I will suggest not doing something if the change is not that imperative to the occasion.

Many of my clients are repeat or recommended by my past clients. But I do get many new clients who, for the first time, need a seamstress to alter their gown. The first question I often get is “How much will this cost?” along with the added comment that “It just needs a few simple alterations”. It is so difficult for a seamstress to provide an estimate over the phone without seeing the dress in person, the materials it is made out of, and how the dress is fitting the particular client. Everyone is shaped different, making the same gown look different on each lady who wears it. And, what might seem “simple” is actually a little more involved than what one would generally expect.

How to prepare for your fitting and alterations:

BRING the shoes that you plan on wearing, or at least a pair in the same height you expect to wear. Change in height equals additional alteration costs
Wear/Bring your undergarments you plan on wearing. Every undergarment is different and can add inches.
Bring along the required cash deposit
BE ON TIME – If you are late, and/or another client arrives on time, you risk the possibility of your appointment being rescheduled and possibly being charged for lost time. Time is set aside specifically for you, to discuss what you want done, measure, pin, etc., to be sure I know what you are looking to have done so if can be done efficiently. Call 24-48 hrs in advance to cancel your appointment.

What can you expect when you arrive for your fitting and alterations:

Inspection of your gown to see what type of material I will be working with, how it is made, how it fits you, etc.
Discussion of what you are looking to have done. This is your gown. Since I am not wearing the gown I will need to understand what you specifically want done.
I will always explain why I can’t do something you had your heart on, and offer an alternative, or suggest not doing it at all. But in the end, it is your decision.
I will suggest what I see needing to be done, but you will never be pressured to use that suggestion.
You will leave with an estimate of your alteration costs. This is just an “estimate” and could change depending on finding something I didn’t expect, you making changes, etc.
You will find that I want you to feel confident in knowing that I’m here to do a quality job for you. You will be given my contact information so that you can reach me via phone or email for any questions you might have after you leave.

When Should I Book my First Fitting/Consult?

Brides - at least 6 weeks in advance
Bridesmaids, Mother of the Bride/Groom - at least 2 weeks in advances unless it is a little more detailed than the average dress
Flower girls - 2-6 weeks. These little dresses range from simple to as elegant as the bride. If it is a simple little dress 2 weeks, otherwise 6 weeks for the dresses that have lots of layers, beads, or any extra "fluff".
From March through July, add an extra 2 weeks.
Rush Fees are added to dress alterations where enough lead time is not given.

BUT, How Much Does It Cost??

This is a tough question to answer over the phone. I don’t know until I see you, your gown, shoes you will be wearing, etc.

So, to help a little, this is what I share with those who are price shopping:

Bridesmaids, Mother of the Bride/Groom, Flower Girls, and young ladies donning their Prom gowns, the average gown is $150

Bridal Gowns have an average of $350

Gowns Are Not All the Same: I did a prom dress for $50, yet I’ve done prom dresses for $200 and some were $350 (the full, princess style gowns). I’ve done bridesmaid dresses for less and others more. It all depends on the dress, the client, and what needs to be done.

Bridal gowns do average $350.00. I’ve recently done a bridal alteration for $150, yet I have a couple of dresses that I’m working on now that are over $600 in alteration costs. How does it get to be so expensive? It is all dependent on the type of fabric, how many layers that need to be hemmed, fullness of the gown, how many layers of tulle netting, type of bustle, type of fitting changes that need to be made, etc. If everything needs to be done along with a lot of changes, the price will be higher than the average.

What I recommend if you are price shopping, is to understand that a seamstress that has been altering gowns for some time won’t be able to give you a blank price/quote. It’s not that we don’t understand that you are working with a budget, but rather we understand the time involved in taking apart and remaking the gown for you and your unique specifications. Select a seamstress you feel comfortable working with so that you can enjoy the experience of preparing for your wedding.

Custom Sewing for Reiki Practitioner

2010-11-11T12:11:00.000-05:00

Creating a Custom Look for a Reiki Practitioner

Ami, of A Healer in Every Family, LLC. in Hopkinton NH came to me inquiring about creating a working vest that would allow her to wear her crystals that she uses in her treatment sessions. She needed something comfortable with extra pockets, in a fabric that provided a warm earthly feel to her sessions.

After some consultation time, deciding on her goals, we selected a pattern that could be altered to meet her specifications. Material and buttons were purchased that would complete the garment.

After receiving the material and pre-washing it for her, I proceeded with the request. As a result, Ami was quite pleased with the final product and was able to use it for her first session of her day.

Details of work: Finished topstitched seams to provide a professional look, 6 1/2" side openings to provide easy mobility, set of 6 pockets for crystal placement, and six button closure.

I look forward to completing her next vest along with a few more items that she has requested to compliment the services she provides in the naturapathic setting.

Re-fashioned Harley Davidson Overalls to Jeans

2010-09-29T12:47:00.000-04:00

Taking the opportunity to refashion overalls brought my was a delight.

This particular customer decided that it was time to rid her wardrobe of her favorite pair of overalls. In doing so, she made the decision the create jeans so that she could continue to wear them.

It was clear that the pants still fit her well, so there was no need to alter the waist. In removing the bib I was able to create a fun pair of jeans that she will be able to continue to enjoy.

Nothing better than meeting the goals on my clients.

~ Putting Thread to Fabric ~

Laura

Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties

http://www.davinadawnsewing.com/

http://www.facebook.com/DavinaDawnSewingSpecialties

Reupholstering & Drapes

2010-09-29T12:04:00.002-04:00

I don't normally take on upholstery projects, such as recovering a couch. Most of my home decor work consists of cushion recovering, pillow work, curtains & drapes. Yet, as I was trying to see how I could make my workspace more pleasant for me to work in as well as my clients who arrive for fittings, I kept my eye open for a couch that would fit within the space we had.

In doing so, a friend provided us a love seat that needed some TLC, that both my husband and I decided would be worth the time and investment. We were correct.

Spending time with my husband on a sewing project proved to be something that we both found to be rewarding. Please keep in mind, that my husband did all the staple & pin removing, repaired all frame issues while utilizing his woodworking skills, re-stuffed the frame where needed, then added the selected fabric to the frame.

My sewing skills recovered the cushions& create the couch skirts for David to add to the finished frame. I recovered a set of pillows that went with a chair we have now decided needs to be reupholstered as well.

The curtains that were made, are simple drapes made of a suede upholstery fabric.

Friends have asked if upholstery will be added to my services. Personally, I will continue to recover cushions & pillows for customers as well as create curtains and drapes. I will take on the small projects, such as ottoman's & stools. But, I am not personally interested in large upholstery work, but I would open my schedule and work with my husband if he decides this is something he is interested in pursuing.

Currently we have a chair that is now ready for his skills as well as a couch he is contemplating on working on for some friends. Time will tell if this is something that will become a side job for him.

Would I do this again? Spending time with my husband, working on something that requires patience, and attention to detail? I most certainly would.

~ Putting Thread to Fabric ~

Laura
Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties
http://www.davinadawnsewing.com/
http://www.facebook.com/DavinaDawnSewingSpecialties

Purchasing Quality Garments

2010-03-27T17:03:00.001-04:00

Today, with the economy the way it is, it is even more important for people to spend their hard-earned money more wisely. Coupons, sales, clearance racks and more provide the quick/fix satisfaction of saying one has saved on their clothing budget. It also helps to take advantage of these savings when you know you will have to spend more resources to have your clothing altered due to your physical stature and unique fitting needs.

Those that know me know my frugal and conservative nature. It's not about being cheap, but making sure the money spent will be used wisely. There are many ways in which one can acquire quality garments at affordable prices yet when you shop be cautious of how manufacturers are able to provide you those low prices.

Many of us shop at the department stores for casual wear. There is nothing wrong with finding good deals that fit within your budget at these stores. But there are many things to take into consideration before grabbing those $5 deals.

Things to be cautious about:

Fabrics are thinner, resulting in the need to wear multiple layers. The style to wear two layer tank tops, or two t-shirts, etc. was not so manufacturers could "cheapen" their fabrics, but rather a fun style to enjoy. I noticed this at a store I really enjoyed shopping at in the past, as I was shopping for my daughter at Christmas time. I found a fun T-shirt that both my husband and I spotted five racks into the store. We walked over to it, and when I picked it up, I could see the light through the other side. The only reason I purchased it, was that I decided I would be getting her new tank tops as well, and would put one with this particular shirt, plus it was marked down substantially.

Another area that manufacturer's are saving money are in the manufacturing of jeans. Take a look at your belt loops. Are your belts curling on you? It could be the result of two missing belt-loops on the back. What manufacturers are doing, is instead of providing 7 - 9 beltloops, they have decreased them to five. Those who are thin probably won't even notice this, but many will once their belts start to curl on them. I am finding that I am adding belt loops to men’s jeans lately due to this problem. They used to provide two on each side in the front near the zipper and now there is only one on each side. And, there used to be two in the back between the side loops and center loop. Instead, the back still has it's center loop, but the side ones are moved back slightly past the side seams.

A quality garment will have all the grain going one way. If the vertical grain is not going straight up and down, then you will end up with an item that not look well after the first washing. The cross-grain should run horizontal to the vertical grain.

A quality garment will have more buttons and are securely sewn on. And many of the quality garments have an extra 1-2 buttons "just in case". They used to be sewn to the inside of garments, which they no longer do. If you have to bring things to your seamstress to be altered, ask him/her if they would stitch the extra button(s) to the inside of the garment in the event you need them in the future.

Make sure you try the new blouse on. You want to make sure that buttons close at the appropriate places, versus open things up for the world to see.

Quality garments will also use metal or high quality plastic zippers (some quality plastic zippers used in clothing are sold at places such as Lands End, LL Bean, etc.). Take the time to move the zipper up and down a few times to make sure it is in working order and not getting caught in the garment fabric. Also, check the stitching where the zipper is. I recently had to reinforce the stitching on a gown that still had its tags on it. My client only tried it on two times, and I was taking it in, so it was obvious it was a manufacturing defect.

Check your seams...are they sewn straight? Are they secure? You can check the seams by gently tugging on the garment to see if it is securely sewn together. You will know if it is not, as it will pull apart too much.

Do you enjoy wearing plaids and stripes? Make sure they line up at the seams. A little off, most people will not even notice, but there are cases where the plaids are obviously not matched correctly. Some might find that I'm being a little particular here. That's okay. If you are comfortable with the plaids and stripes not really lining up, I won't pick on you.

Sometimes hemlines on pants are not the same length. This is okay when you have one leg shorter than the other does (yes, I have customers where I have to alter one pant leg due to this problem), but it's not okay when you are purchasing a new pair of pants. Take the pants and fold in half and check to see if the hems match up? Great! If not, put them back on the rack and look for another pair. NOTE: When purchasing 2nd hand at thrift stores, make sure you try them on. People get their clothing altered, and sometimes the size on the garment is not necessarily the size you wear.

With skirts, jackets, blouses, and other items, do the same. Fold the garment in half to make sure the sides are symmetrical.

Time for the "Scrunch test". Take the fabric and scrunch it in your hands. Does it fall back and continue to hold its shape well? Great! Does it leave heavy wrinkles? How much do you enjoy ironing? If it wrinkles a lot or feels flimsy, you might not consider it worth purchasing. Fabrics such as wool should bounce quickly back, which would indicate its resistance to wrinkling.

Trims and beading you will want to check in a variety of areas on the garment to make sure they are securely in place. One loose thread could mean there are a variety of loose threads.

Patch pockets should lie firmly against the garment and not fall away leaving a gap between the garment and pocket fabric.

With linings you will want to make sure that they don't hang lower then the hem of the garment (pant, skirt, sleeves and jacket hems).

The goal in shopping wisely is to have longer lasting garments as well as keep alterations to a minimum. Yes, many will still need to have their clothing altered, but a poorly made item with inferior fabric is not worth the cost.

Alteration tips: Pre-wash all garments before you bring them to your seamstress/tailor to remove all shrinkage. 100% cottons could stand to use two washings (two times through the dryer as well) to make sure the shrinkage is completely out.

Also, some seamstress will charge for pre-washing or washing smoke-filled garments, or possibly refuse to do the work for you.

As you shop, consider purchasing classic styles that never go out of style. These items will last a long time if well made and taken care of. With a watchful eye, you can find great buys!

~ Putting Thread to Fabric ~
Laura
Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties
http://www.davinadawnsewing.com/

What Bridal Fashion Fits You Best?

2010-03-05T21:54:00.002-05:00

With so many engagements that have occurred since Christmas, New Year's and Valentine's Day, there are many searching the bridal stores for the "Perfect Dress". Dresses look beautiful on the models with the sleek bodies that are shown in the magazines and other advertising venues, yet when we try the style on, we just don't seem to feel beautiful in it.

So, let's try to narrow down what might be the best look for you and your figure.

The Lovely Ball Gown, a style that has a fitted bodice, yet flairs out in a very full and bell shape. A couple figure styles that look great in this style gown are the ladies who are slim, as well as the ladies who have a pear shape figure.
This is a beautiful style dress that is perfect for the fairy tale wedding. Different necklines and with or without sleeves. The skirt can be made with a variety of styles: draping layers of fine silk or chiffon to create an elegant look, covered in lace and beads, plain silk or satin, and many other fabric options. The skirt will be supported with multiple layers of tulle & taffetta or might need a crinoline skirt to maintain it's fullness.
The A-line dress, also known as the Princess dress, has a nicely fitted bodice that fits well to one's rib-cage, yet flares gracefully along the rest of the body. The nice part of this style dress is that it elongates one's body. The A-line style dress fits most body types. You can also get this style with a fuller flair. It is a beautiful style for any type wedding.
The Princess style will have obvious elongated lines, from the neckline to hem, slenderizing the figure. The A-Line will use a variety of fabrics creating a different look depending on the choice fabric.

The Sheath also known as the Column, is a very comfortable dress that will closely fit and follow the curves of your shape. This is a lovely style with one who has a slender figure and those with an hour glass shape. It's a lovely dress, it can be used with a variety of necklines and skirt lengths. This is a great style for thin and well proportioned women. Both tall and short women can wear this dress, and actually provide a sense of height for shorter women.
The benefit of this dress, is that many different fabrics can be used to provide different looks. A great dress for any type of wedding...formal and informal. A very modest style if worn with sleeves.

The Empire waist dress has a narrow bodice where the skirt portion starts just under the bustline. If made with the lovely flowing polyester, chiffon fabrics, it is a beautiful option for thicker waistlines and pear shape hips. This style looks lovely on many figures, although it is not a good design for the well endowed woman. If you want to show off your hour glass figure, this would not be recommended. With shoulder straps and with sleeves, this dress is a very elegant yet modest fashion.
This dress can be made with a couple layers, and depending on the fabrics chosen can change the look drastically.

The Mermaid style is a figure forming style that hugs the body which flairs out from the knees, or slightly above, to the floor. This is designed looks lovely on a tall, slender figure with curves that desires to show off her figure. Worn well by a woman with confidence.
Light fabrics will gently hug your figure, yet the heavy satins will hug your figure and accentuate any flaws you might have.
This style might have one of three style flairs: 1. The round flair will provide volume at the base of the dress. 2. The trumpet flair will provide volume behind the dress. 3. The Spanish flair, a flamenco look, will gather slightly in front and around the dress in layers.

I caution one to not go for the dress that will accentuate the flaws you find uncomfortable to share. You want to feel beautiful, and when selecting dresses for your bridal party, remember their figures as you select their style. Remember, you can always get different dresses in the same color.

So, consider your figure, browse the many bridal magazines, and select all that you like. And remember, you might not be able to find or afford the dress you desire from a book, but you might not look well in them either. BUT, you can make any change you want to your dress that you desire.

You can also refashion a dress you are given, find second hand, on clearance, etc. to the look you desire. Remember, this is YOUR special day. My goal when I work with brides, as I alter, create bustles or refashion their dress, is to make their dress look the way that they want it to look.

~ Putting Thread to Fabric ~

Laura
Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties
http://www.davinadawnsewing.com/

Serving Those Who Serve Our Country

2010-02-27T12:45:00.003-05:00

As part of my business of serving others through my sewing skills I am asked to frequently alter and place service patches for many service men and women. This is an amazing group of people who depend on me to provide a service that is exact.

Some are new and others have been serving our country for many years. But what they all have in common is a great deal of pride and dedication to their service to our country. They show respect to their uniform as they bring it to me for their specific alteration need. They have an expectation that when they leave their uniform in my hands, that it will be done well and to the specifications of their branch of service.

In return, I find that I am honored to serve these men and women who risk their lives to protect me. I find that I am more aware of my work as I measure and re-measure the placement of their service bars and stripes, before actually securing them to their uniforms. I find that I have an additional element of pride as I serve them.

When they arrive for pick-up, they inspect their uniform, as it represents who they are and what they stand for. My hope is that they leave totally satisfied in my work, knowing that they can wear their uniform with the pride that they carry within them.

To those who serve our country, thank you for allowing me the priviledge of serving you with my sewing skills. It is a honor to serve you in this capacity.

~ Putting Thread to Fabric ~

Laura
Custom Seamstress
Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties

A Delighted Bride and Mom

2010-02-20T15:13:00.003-05:00

One of the many joys I am blessed with, is when a bride requests something unique for her dress. Most often my job will be to take in the bodice or the waist along with the hem. Sometimes I will be asked to add some trim, remove a flower and reshape the shirt, or simply remove the sleeves. But my most recent job was different than most, yet provided the most fullfillment It was taking something old and creating something new for the bride.

The bride's mother saved her own wedding dress, in hopes that one day her daughter would wear it at her own wedding. What a joy it must have been when her daughter said she wanted to wear it. The only thing that would be different would be that she wanted her dress to be restyled to a more modern look.

Those of us who got married in the last 70's through early 80's remember the high collars and puffy sleeves, and other Gunne sax style dresses. The dress that was to be restyled had the high collar that zipped up in the back, which the bride decided needed a little updating. The bride provided a picture from a bridal magazine, sharing what she wanted her dress to look like. To provide this look, I removed the collar and netting that was on the neck, shorten the zipper creating a "V" shape in the back, and reapply the original lace that was on the original dress. Both the bride and myself were excited to see that would could use all that was on the original dress without having to use anything new.

The work was tedious, yet such a delight. I love to create unique items, including refashioning any garment of clothing when I have the opportunity. The easiest part of my job was to understand my clients desire, which she was able to clearly communicate her wish. She knew what she wanted, had a picture to help share her idea's, and I was able to move forward with her request.

The dress is now complete. The bride arrived with her mom today for the final fitting. And the most full-filling part of my job was when the bride smiled and shared how happy she was, along with her mom sharing that I did "magic" to her dress.

There is nothing more satisfying than a job well done, where the client leaves with a huge smile of delight.

Enjoy the after pictures!

To Be a Seamstress

2010-02-13T19:23:00.001-05:00

Being a seamstress allows me to use needle and thread to alter, repair, create and tailor custom and ready made clothing, as well as create a variety of other items from doll clothing, infant blankets, specialty clothing on through to include home decor type items. There are many titles and definitions that describe the work that I do, from seamstress, dressmaker, crafter, and tailor.

Custom dressmaking and tailoring is when one creates clothing to meet the specific requests of their customers. This can be done using existing patterns as they are designed or altered to meet the customer's preference of style and fit, as well as creating custom patterns specific to the customer's measurements. The custom pattern making I provide is generally on the small scale, creating patterns for dolls as I replicate fashions as requested by clients, as well as young infant clothing. For adults, I often use ready made patterns and alter then to meet my clients request. Occasionally, I will create a custom pattern for adults, but it is not a frequent need.

Part of a seamstress job is to help educate customers in fabric selection for their style selection. At times, when a customer requests it, I will spend the time shopping with them to get the fabric that is best for their style preference. Depending on the style of their dress, it is important for me to share with them how one fabric would work better than another for their style selection.

With dressmaking and tailoring one needs to measure and fit through to the completion of the garment. Depending on the garment, this could take from two to six fittings. A bridal or other formal dress will take up to six fittings, where a man's vest could take two with a final fitting upon completion.

Tailoring also incorporates altering ready made garments to better fit my clients. The most common request is for pant hems, but I frequently fit jackets, take in waistlines on slacks, jacket lining replacement and more. In some cases, a customer will request that I add inside pockets to their jackets, change a collar, restyle or refashion a specific dress, etc. Tailoring is about creating a look and fit that makes my customer comfortable, from the young child in dance or a recital, the office professional, to the bride and her bridal party.

Alterations and mending services allow customers the freedom to bring along a basket or pile of mending they don't have time to conquer, as well as an individual item that needs a hem, zipper replacement, seam repair and more. This could also incorporate mending or altering bridal and formal wear. In addition, it not only relates to clothing, but also to the other sewing needs a client might have.

The goal of my seamstress work is to provide a quality, finished product, using my skills, in order to give my customer what they would otherwise not be able to do themselves, or find elsewhere. Sewing is not only a "job" but an enjoyable career where I meet interesting people, where others are able to enjoy the gift of my sewing skills.

~ Putting Thread to Fabric ~

Laura - Custom Seamstress

Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties

http://www.davinadawnsewing.com/

You can also find me on Twitter and Facebook

Refashioned for a modern, elegant look

2010-02-03T04:43:00.006-05:00

It is such a delight when a client comes in with their idea of what they would like to have for their wedding dress.

My most recent client arrived with her mother's wedding dress. In her desire to wear her mom's dress, she also wanted to refashion it to be more modern for her own personal style preference.

The request was to remove the high collar and full back zipper and transform the dress into a more modern yet elegant style. I removed all the trim and neck netting, shortened the zipper, secured the bustle buttons, and changed the back to a v-shape providing a very elegant look for the bride. After all the work was done to remove the old, the next step was to use all the original lace trim along the new lines of the bodice lines. The bride requested that the lace overlap the edges, providing a lacy effect along the edges of the dress.

One knows that the bride has made a wonderful decision when clients, who come by for their own alterations, see her dress on the dress form and share how beautiful the dress is.

I personally love the old fashion look, so when she brought the dress to me, I was thinking it was beautiful to begin with. Once I understood what the bride wanted, I was able to take her mom's beautiful country style wedding dress and transform it into a more modern, elegant style that I was honored to create.

~ Putting Thread to Fabric ~

Laura - Custom Seamstress

http://www.davinadawnsewing.com/

Something old, something new, something unique just for you

2010-02-02T09:27:00.002-05:00

It was a pleasure to be interviewed by a local reporter to be included in this years 2010 Bridal Guide, provided through our local paper, the Concord Monitor.

Although my sewing services are varied from meeting the needs of many, from infants through adult as well as your home, this particular article focused on my services that I provide to the bride who wants to wear her mom or grandmother's dress, or use their own dress for something special after the wedding.

From refashioning an old dress or one you find on sale that you want to make more "you" to Christening gowns, wraps and more.

~ Putting Thread to Fabric ~

Laura - Custom Seamstress
Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties

Here is the article, written by By Victoria Shouldis/For the Monitor January 19, 2010:
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Get the perfect fit out of an heirloom gown

Here’s the problem. You’ve got your mom’s wedding gown or your grandma-on-your-father’s-side wedding gown and you’re planning on getting married. Naturally, you’d like to make use of that heirloom gown.

But there’s a problem. Or two. It turns out you and grandma had different body types. Or you know, you love the gown, but not necessarily on you. Or you love elements of the gown, but not the whole package. Or maybe the gown hasn’t been preserved exactly correctly, so that a lovely dress that was once a pure white is now something of tinged-yellow.

What can you do? Do you have to toss the heirloom dress and buy something brand new, perhaps beautiful but lacking in the character that comes with history and family stories? No! You can visit a talented seamstress instead.

Laura Field is a local, talented seamstress. She has been running her Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties shop out of her home in Concord for nearly a decade, specializing in everything from new gowns to alterations to exquisite clothes for dolls.

The good news? Field has some solutions for that old family gown.

The bad news is that a gown, in general, only has so much give, so an alteration to make, say a size 4 dress into a size 6 is possible but beyond that is unlikely. (Making gowns smaller is a bit easier, but again, with major size alterations come changes in proportion and appearance of the dress, so there are limits there, too.) Field also notes that you can’t just go by label sizes.

“What is called a size 10 today might have been labeled a size 14 20 years ago,” Field said. So you have to go by actual measurements and not just label sizes.

So a gown can be let out a size or so; Field can also substantially alter that old family gown, to, say, remove some of those flourishes that the modern bride doesn’t care for, or the more restrictive designs that were all the rage in eras past.

“Often times brides have me change things like those lace, high-neck collars,” said Field. “Many people don’t like those.”

Okay. But what if that beautiful, family heirloom wedding gown just isn’t going to make that transformation into your wedding gown? How can that treasure still be a part of the ceremony or other family tradition? Field has a proverbial wedding chest full of solutions.

“Christening gowns. This is a very common use for family gowns – I take the family gown and turn it into a beautiful gown for a baby’s christening,” said Field. “And then that gown, in its new form as a christening gown, can be passed down to other generations as a christening gown.”

Field said gowns can be transformed into non-wedding wear: suits for the bride or even bridal bags or gifts for the bridesmaids.

Field also has tons of ideas for incorporating that old gown into something, well, new, for the wedding ceremony itself. The gown can be turned into tiny pillows for the ring bearers to use. The gown can be incorporated into a new gown’s veil. Or it can even be transformed into a shawl, designed to wrap one both in soft comfort and family history.

Drawing from her own specialization in doll clothing, Field also suggested a very non-traditional way of preserving and honoring, say, grandma’s old gown: doll replicas.

“Some people might want to do this especially to honor a couple in the family who’ve been married for a long, long time: we can take the wedding gown and turn it into a replica of itself on a small doll,” said Field. “Then that treasure can be kept and passed down as a memory in a curio cabinet.”

With many of Field’s ideas, the seamless (pardon the pun) transition of old gown into the new gown is one that will not be readily apparent to the eye. But families will share their stories – as families do – and soon, everyone at the ceremony will know, say, that that veil contains a piece of grandma’s wedding gown, or that that gown the first grandchild was christened in was once the gown that great Aunt Cordelia was married in.

“What’s great about incorporating the old into the new is that you satisfy that old, traditional bride’s creed: something old, something new, something borrowed,” said Field, who is busily wrapping up work on her daughter’s wedding gown. (She’s also bringing food and being asked to play flute at the ceremony.) “We don’t quite have the something blue part, though.”

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Wedding Alterations

2010-01-29T20:52:00.000-05:00

A wedding is to be such a special time in a brides life. With so much planning, one would only hope that the Bride would not only enjoy the preparation, but also her special day. So often the bride has so much to do, that the stress builds up.

There is so much joy when I can work with a bride, creating for her the final look for her wedding gown. In some cases it begins with my making her dress, but most often it comes from altering it to her specific needs. My goal, for every bride that comes my way, is to make the adjustments that she would like to her specifications. Sometimes it is just a hem, other times it might just be creating a bustle, and there are times where there are many adjustments that need to be made.

Since alterations are an added expense, I share with the bride that what is most important is to have the proper undergarments she plans on wearing with her when she comes for her first fitting. This is extremely important when deciding how much something may need to be taken in. The proper undergarment will not show when you wear your dress and will make your dress look seamless and you feel beautiful.

There are times when a dress doesn't need a special undergarment. One bride came my way, wanting me to take her dress out because it seemed too tight. After looking at the dress and seeing that it already had all the support the dress needed, I asked her to take off the undergarment and put the dress on without it. When I returned to the room, she was smiling ear-to-ear, seeing how that one simple change made her dress fit her to perfection. She was sold an item that was unnecessary when they sold her the dress. This is an unfortunate thing that happens to brides, because in some cases the undergarment is needed, yet in some cases it is not. This was a rush order request that ended up being a simple consult, saving the bride rush fees in addition to the alteration costs that she originally wanted, plus, she was able to return the undergarment since it still had the tags on it. She and her fiancé was extremely happy realizing how much money I had saved them.

The other important item to have with her is her shoes. Sometimes a bride has still not found that perfect pair, so I recommend that she bring a pair of shoes, in the height that she plans on wearing. This helps in making sure we get the right hem length if I'm hemming, but also if we are adding a bustle, it is important to have the right floor length. Depending upon the number of alterations that might be needed and their budget, some brides will purchase heels to accommodate the length of the dress. My only caution here would be "comfort".

One way some brides save and bring someone old into their wedding, is to take their mother's or grandmother's dress and have it refashioned for themselves. If they can wear the dress, but want a few things tweaked to make it their own and more modern, it is an option that only embraces the alteration costs.

There are so many options available to a bride. My job is to listen to what the bride desires and make the necessary adjustments to make her feel beautiful on her special day.

Here's the brides: May your day be yours, the way you desire, to love and to cherish, your man of the hour.

~ Putting Thread to Fabric ~

Laura - Custom Seamstress
Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties
http://www.davinadawnsewing.com/

For the love of my daughter

2010-01-14T07:34:00.003-05:00

There is something special about being asked to make a custom dress for one's wedding, but when your daughter asks, there is something even more endearing that reaches deeper into my heart.

Our oldest daughter had been planning her wedding long before she met her husband, by selecting patterns, fabrics, and more. The best part of her planning, was that she easily found her fabrics before the local stores stopped carrying the elegant bridal fabrics that one now has to purchase online.

Heather's dress was made with a beautiful soft satin underskirt that felt beautiful against her skirt, a cream-on-cream brocade fabric for her main dress, contrasting satin sleeves, with a braided trim around the neckline, bodice and down the front of the opening of the outer skirt.

Her dream was to have a renaissance style dress, with the maid-of-honor and bridesmaids to match, using her favorite color of sage green, which we selected crepes, organza, sparkle organza and satin linings. All dresses were to be slightly different from each other.

The maid-of-honor (sister) had a dress using a satin lining, sparkle crepe fabric for the main dress, and sparkle organza for the dress overlay and sleeves. She chose to use spaghetti straps to allow her unnecessary worries. This dress was designed so that the sleeves could be easily removed for any future formal occasion.

Bridesmaid 1 (sister) had a more modest style A-line dress using sparkle crepe fabric for the main dress, sparkle organza for the sleeves, and silk/satin lining.

Bridesmaid 2 (cousin) had the same style dress as bridesmaid 1, but a plain crepe fabric was used for the dress, and a plain organza for the sleeve, and a silk/satin lining.

The pattern selected for the bridesmaids, was very different that what is shown, as I created a sleeve pattern to make the sleeve edges to be similar to the maid-of-honor's dress.

It was a privilege to make my daughter's wedding dress, where she felt like a princess, in addition to the other bridal party dresses.

~ Putting Thread to Fabric ~

Laura
Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties
http://www.davinadawnsewing.com/

Zipper Pulls vs. Zipper Replacement

2009-12-07T10:43:00.007-05:00

Zipper Replacements - Many times a client has an old favorite jacket or coat that they need to replace the zipper in. Often, the full zipper needs to be replaced, but in some cases, all I need to do is replace the zipper pull for them.

I will always provide the quote for the full zipper replacement, but I will also let them know that if I can just replace the pull, I will do that and save them quite a bit. It's rare a client will argue, most especially in these economic times.

In some cases a client has a plastic type zipper, and although these zippers are much better today than in years past, some clients are most comfortable with a metal zipper replacement, which I will do for them.

Not all plastic zipper pulls can be replaced. But, in some cases, I can replace them, but your zipper might be a metal replacement. Your top stop will be a metal stop vs. the plastic that originally is with your coat.

When a client has a coat that might have cost them over $350 when they first purchased it 7 years prior, as in the case of the jacket shown, it is hard for them to find a replacement coat with the same characteristics that they have grown to enjoy. This is when, what seems to be a costly repair to some, some will find the zipper replacement, repair and lining replacements, actually turn out to be the most economical approach.

This service, of zipper replacement/repairs is provided mostly for local customers, but it is also provided for my internet clients that are willing to ship and pay return shipping costs for their repair needs.

~ Putting Thread to Fabric ~

Laura - seamstress
Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties
http://www.davinadawnsewing.com/

Thankfulness

2009-11-26T07:29:00.004-05:00

There is so much to be thankful for.

We all face trials in our lives, challenges that make us want to give up at times, yet we also face opportunities to make choices that can make a difference.

I have been blessed with a husband who has been my best friend for over 30 years. Married for over 29 years and a friendship that started a few years prior. In addition I have three daughters who will always be a sweet treasure that I am so very grateful for.

Nine years ago my business started as something to do part-time to help support the family while I stayed home to care for and homeschool our daughters.

It was a challenging decision to stay home, homeschool and start my business, but it proved to be well worth it. There were many looking for what I had to offer, not only locally but also internationally.

This past spring I made the decision, with the full support of my husband, to take my business from the part-time level to full-time. It was a decision that I do not regret and find that the Lord has blessed.

I not only create doll clothing, as I did when I first started in 2000, but I also enjoy making the infant/toddler blankets, therapy bags, Christmas stockings, fleece wraps, and more for my web-site. In addition, I have been blessed to take care of other's needs, outside our family, with their alteration, mending, and custom sewing needs.

For some, it might seem like a tedious chore. For me, it's a gift of serving others.

May you encounter joy during this time where our nation celebrates Thanksgiving. May you find joy in your ability to serve others in the work that you do.
And thank you to the many men and women who serve our country, out of a personal desire to serve and protect.

~ Putting Thread to Fabric ~

Laura - seamstress

Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties
http://www.davinadawnsewing.com/
Twitter http://twitter.com/DavinaDawnSewin
Facebook http://bit.ly/3MNj8o

Replacing you Coat Lining

2009-11-18T18:14:00.006-05:00

Replacing your Coat Lining

It is important to be sure when you decide to replace your coat lining, that you are getting a quality job done.

It is common for one to purchase a quality coat that later on needs the lining replaced. The outer shell is in great condition, but due to the consistent wear'n tear, the lining begins to thin.

You can price around to see who is the cheapest and go that route, but make sure you are getting not only quality workmanship, but also a quality lining fabric that will last more than one or two seasons.

There are many variables that go into replacing a coat lining. The cost to replace your lining might cause sticker shock, because in some cases it will seem as if you are re-purchasing your coat new again. What you are paying for is the time involved in taking out your old lining, replacing shoulder pads, creating new pattern pieces from old, worn and stretched out pieces that are being removed, etc. Then, the time involved in adding back in the new lining. This is not something that can be done in a quick hour or two.

When my clients come to me for their coat linings, I discuss with them their expectations. Do they want the inside lapel pocket still (some want to save costs so they remove it)? Do they need any pockets replaced? Do they want something different about your coat lining...some have hems sewn right into the coat, where other's hang loose, and the customer decides to have the new one hang loose. Do they have a kick pleat in the back? Are there other mending needs necessary for their coat? Do they want me to mend things if they are discovered once the replacement begins? Do buttons need to be replaced?

So, as you can see, there is more than just bringing it in and replacing the lining. If you have a coat that you really love, that you can't replace because you can't find that classic look anymore, then you might decide it is well worth the investment. If it was an expensive coat, that is still in great condition, except for the lining, it is well worth the investment. Leather coat owners have found it to be well worth the investment because they have worn their coat to the point where it is a part of them.

Whatever your choice, whether to reline or not, is something you need to decide after you weigh the cost of the work with the value of your coat, whether it can be replaced, or what it means to you.

To have this service done by Laura of Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties is generally done for local customers. But, this service is also provided for customers anywhere within the USA, for those who are willing to ship their coat and pay for return shipment.

Stay warm

~ Putting Thread to Fabric ~

Laura
Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties
http://www.davinadawnsewing.com

Large Christmas Stockings - Beautiful, Fun & Practical

2009-11-13T12:32:00.006-05:00

Christmas Stockings can be so much fun! They are a tradition in our home that we all enjoy. We take our stockings that were created specifically for each child (and yes, David and I each have one ourselves), and fill them with things that have meaning for each person. Whether it be one's favorite candy, little items that show that we thought of them throughout the year or during the holiday season, favorite CD music, DVD's, etc.

We take every gift, regardless of the size, and wrap them individually from the prior years used wrapping paper. It has become a favorite part of our Christmas morning, as we each open little gift. That doesn't mean one has to wrap every little item, as this is just our family tradition.

How is this a practical gift to be used in gift giving?
1. This is a gift that can be recycled and either be used year after year for your child (consider having his/her name embroidered on it), or if it is an office gift item, it can be used again the following year by that recepient to fill and give to someone new the following year.
2. One doesn't have to spend a lot to fill a stocking, just some time and thoughtfulness. Some things we include are necessities, such as tissues, toothbrush & floss, stickers (for kids and scrapbookers), comb's, brushes, a new winter scarf, earrings (you can clip these on the side), match boxes, deck of cards, stationary, pens & pencils all of which could have their favorite team insignia on them or favorite Disney character, etc., books, word puzzle books, socks, stockings, gloves & mittens and so much more. Many items can be found at the dollar store, some can be hand made (such as cookies), and some can be picked up one at a time while picking up your groceries each week (their favorite candy, gum, etc).
3. It doesn't have to be used only for small items, but you can use it as the wrapping for your gift item, such as a special sweater, game, etc.

Who would enjoy these wonderful packages of love?
- College students can use food items, stamps, ink for printers, therapy rice bags (check them out at http://davinadawnsewing.com/therapeuticbags.htm ) etc.
- Military members can use toiletries, cards, etc.
- Grandparents - their favorite CD music, or old movies on DVD they enjoy watching
- Office Co-workers
- Nurses, Doctors & other medical staff personal
- Neighbor that has been especially kind to you
- Secretary at your church - hand lotion, Christian CD, and more
- Donated gifts to the needy that you might sponsor as you can fill it with the things they asked for (within reason of course)
- Secret Santa gift filled with lots of fun little things
- Yankee Swap Gift - this would be the type of gift that everyone would enjoy getting.

Size & Prices of Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties Large Christmas Stockings
Approx. size: 20" length, 11" cuff width, 15" at widest part of stocking foot.
The price ranges from $30 - $40 depending on the type fabric used.

QUESTION: Can one provide the fabric and Laura create a custom Stocking? Most definately! Email your inquiry to laura@davinadawnsewing.com

As you can see, you can use a large stocking for a variety of people and purposes. It provides a special wrapping for all your thoughtfulness. Take a look at the options currently available at http://davinadawnsewing.com/christmasstockings.htm All custom made using quality fabric.

~ Putting Thread to Fabric ~

Laura - Custom Seamstress
Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties
http://www.davinadawnsewing.com

Preparing for Winter

2009-11-02T19:09:00.003-05:00

It seems that once October & November arrives, we find ourselves in New England, raking, putting away the garden tools and summer furniture, and getting ready for the upcoming winter weather. Not only do we prepare the outdoors, we begin to prepare the inside as well. But, sometimes we wait until the last minute to realize that the cold is going to arrive, and find our gloves, coats, and scarves need to be cleaned, replaced, mended or altered.

New Englanders are made of two types of people: Those who Love winter, and those who could really live without it. I'm one of those that could live without it, except I do enjoy the cool weather up through Christmas, even through New Years. I love the first snowfall, the crystal glitter upon the trees, and the beauty that surrounds us. Even the driving isn't too bad. But after about two months, I'm ready for the spring.

Fortunately, I do enjoy the lovely cold weather clothing. The textures are beautiful, the colors are generally warm, allowing them to compliment many different complexions.

Winter is fast approaching. Now is a good time to check your fall/winter wardrobe, to make sure there are no buttons that need to be tighten, zippers replaced or mended, pockets repaired, and hems secure. I like to remind my customers to consider getting their alteration needs done before the weather actually changes.

Since my service not only provides alteration needs, one can bring other mending needs in addition to custom work done, so that you can have everything done all at once. Or, if you need to budget things to have them repaired, mended, altered or custom made, consider having the items you need to wear in the cold weather taken care of first.

In addition, a customer can shop online, at my site www.davinadawnsewing.com for some online products for Christmas gifts that they can pick up the same day of their alteration/mending pickup. Currently one can find doll clothing and accessories, rice therapy bags, infant/toddler blankets, and more. As I can, I continue to add items for a variety of options.

Enjoy the fall weather. We are blessed with such beautiful colors!

Laura - Custom Seamstress
Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties

Wedding Memories

2009-10-19T22:50:00.003-04:00

Wedding Memories - one of the joys I have is in creating replica's of bridal party dresses. When the replica was requested to duplicate a young girls dress, it warmed my heart to know that there was a little girl who was going to be overjoyed with the love and thoughtfulness that the bride put into the gift.

This particular order started out with one dress in March, later to be commissioned to take on replicating three more once she saw my work. The additional dresses (including the one pictured here), all different, were made with Dupioni Silk fabric, satin ribbon, and this particular dress had two layers of tulle overlay.

This order was special, as it was a request for a gift for the young girls in the bridal party. Usually I get the request for just the bridal dress to be replicated. Although I take great joy in creating bridal replica's as it allows my creative skills to be used fully for something that can be simple through intricately elegant. It is another source of joy to create replica's for young girls. One knows that they will treasure their gift of love, bringing back many memories.

You can view more pictures, showing all three dresses at http://www.davinadawnsewing.com/specialorderspecialoccassioncurrent.htm
The pictures will be moved once I start a new custom order, or after a few months.

To Alter or Not to Alter

2009-10-07T21:45:00.004-04:00

One of the things I enjoy providing my local clients are quality alterations. In doing so, I like to make sure they are getting what they want, as well as what they need.

I had the pleasure of meeting a new client today, who was looking for someone that had flexible hours to work around her work schedule, but also someone who would be honest with her. Recently, she lost 30 pounds, but also had some alterations already done to the garments she had. She brought a suit jacket and four pairs of slacks that she felt were not fitting her well. As she tried each item on, the jacket being the first, she realized that the jacket actually fit her quite well. I couldn't see anything that would warrant an alteration as a necessity.

What I thought was going to be a very expensive job for the client and timely one for myself, based on what she shared on the phone, turned out to be a less costly situation.

As she tried each item on, I listened to her and learned that she had started to do more exercises. So, even though she wasn't planning on anymore weight loss, the clothes could continue to change how they looked on her. Yet, with three pairs, I made some adjustments that made an obvious difference in how they would fit.

One of the things I won't do is provide alterations that are not necessary. It is not fair to the client to spend hard earned resources on something that will not make a difference for them. They are depending on me to provide a fit that will allow them to feel good about how they look in their clothes, and in the case of this clients clothing already being altered, whether more alterations can be done. I will educate them where I can, show the suggested changes and let them decide whether it provides them the look they are seeking, prior to them leaving.

My goal, is to help my client feel comfortable and confident when their garment is altered. This is why I take the time needed in the first fitting.

May we all strive to look our best, feel confident in who we are, while living our lives to the fullest.

Laura
Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties
http://www.davinadawnsewing.com

Sewing for Thumbelina

2009-10-06T15:34:00.007-04:00

Sometimes I relish the time I acquire that allows me the freedom to work on things that I haven't had a chance to. One of the things I enjoy making are things for my website. I get to choose the fabric, the notions, the pattern, and the choice. There is something relaxing about making something for fun.

Thumbelina was a doll that I adored when I was a young girl. My mother made me give it away when she felt I was too old to hang onto it. So, who would have thought I would eventually be making doll clothing when my girls were young? Who would have thought that Thumbelina would have returned into my life.

I do have a Thumblina, that I acquired on Ebay a few years back. I search high and low for one that was in good shape and still movable when her knob was turned.

So, it was a pleasure to make a nightgown to include on my site that fit Thumbelina specifically. Thumbelina looks beautiful in this new gown. It doesn't have lace, as I wanted to provide a simple gown first. More outfits will be added to the site as I can make the time to create for her size.

This nightgown is made with 100% cotton flannel, has a two button hole closure, and a cute little pink bow button on the bodice. The flannel is a cute flannel that has baby toys throughout. The bodice is fully lined. All seams are finished preventing the opportunity for fraying. Elastic on the wrists of the sleeves, and folded-over hems for the sleeves and hem of skirt. As always, looking to provide a quality product for those seeking quality craftsmanship. Check out Thumbelina's page at http://www.davinadawnsewing.com/dollthumbelina.htm to see the different views.

Those who enjoy collecting dolls, or have a special girl in your life with a body size of Thumbelina, will enjoy this page.

Have a delightful and restful evening.

Laura
Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties

Giving Life to the Frayed Edges of Towels

2009-10-05T14:42:00.003-04:00

Today I was catching up with the laundry. The benefit of having children is that they help with the chores. The disadvantage is that they don't tell you when things need mending. So, when I take over this particular chore, due to school schedules, I discover what needs mending.

So while I was washing/folding towels and jeans, I discovered again how towels that might be just over a year to two years old, still had plenty of life in them, yet the edges were coming apart. You know how it is, where the threads start to fray away from the edges, so you begin cutting them each time you wash them because there really isn't anything wrong with the towels. Seeing this was the issue with a few washcloths and a couple bath towels, I brought them over to my serger and took care of the frayed mess.

What I do to preserve the life of the towels, so we don't need to cut them down into rags long before they need to, is serge the edges. I have done this to my towels and washclothes for quite a few years. If I get new towels as a Christmas gift, I just put them aside as our summer pool towels. They can also be used for the kids bathroom. I have not had any future issues with the towels until they are ready for the rag bin. And, the nice thing in doing this, is that edges remain the same for many future uses.

I do provide this service to local/nationwide customers who have quality towels, with plenty of life left, yet are frustrated having to cut the threads all the time from washer/dryer wear. They don't look like store-bought towels with the hemmed edges, but they stop fraying, no longer getting caught up in the washer or tied up in the laundry, and look nice and neat.

For myself, I use whatever thread I have in the serger as all I'm looking for is a quick fix. For customers who want a color to closely match their towels, I will do my best with the limited serger threads I have in stock.

I hope that you find this to be a helpful tip, or a service that you might consider taking advantage of the next time you discover your towels have too many threads when washing.

Have a delightful day filled with blessings,

Laura
Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties
http://www.davinadawnsewing.com

The Love of Creating with Thread and Fabric

2009-10-04T10:22:00.005-04:00

Sundays are days of reflection for me. I can take a look at my past week and contemplate the week in front of me. It allows me to evaluate what I can do better, what skill I can enhance, or even what new skill I can learn.

This last week I have been blessed with an opportunity to begin a project for a bride-to-be, working on American Girl dress replica's for girls that are a part of her wedding. Pictures have been provided, and fabric from the girls dress are provided as well. It is a unique opportunity that allows me to take part in a celebration that others are unable to experience. I will also be preparing to replace a lining in a quality dress coat, where I need to create a pattern and order specific lining that will last a number of years for long lasting use.

The first dress that I'm working on, is actually one of three, and added to a dress I had already completed in April for my client. Each dress will require a pattern designed specifically for each doll, and each dress is different than the next. I sent my first preliminary pictures, which allow my client to make comments, and share changes that are needed. In this case, I will need to remove a ribbon (that I had only pinned). I'm waiting for an answer to one question, then I will be able to proceed and complete this first dress. Because this client has three dresses, I can begin the next dress while I wait for the answers.

The love I have for sewing is a gift that I can give to others as a service in craftsmanship. My goal is to provide a quality service and/or product, and a personal service that others feel that they are part of the decision process of what they receive in the end.

As I begin my work for others, I seriously take a look at what it is I'm making, always trying to get a solid idea of what the client's expectations are from me. I communicate with them to be sure that what I am doing is exactly what they want. I also give my work to God, asking that He allow me to use my hands in a way that will bless and honor Him yet also allow me to use my hands in creating something of quality for my client.

I am fortunate. I have a gift that others are not given. They have other gifts that I am sometimes a recipient of. As I create custom work, provide alteration and mending service, and even online products, I always want to present the best possible work that I am capable of doing. My sewing business is a service that others pay for, where they can expect professional, friendly, caring and quality service.

Concord Monitor's Capital Business Connections special advertising supplement

2009-10-02T00:10:00.003-04:00

Today, Friday, Oct 2nd, my local paper, The Concord Monitor, published a special advertising supplement where I placed my first large advertisment. Below is the portion of the advertisment where they provided a brief write-up of my business.
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Laura, of Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties provides a variety of seamstress services to the community and abroad. From alterations, mending (including bridal and formal gowns), refashioning already-owned clothing, custom infant and children’s clothing (including christening and baptismal gowns,originals or refashioned from bridal gowns), other dress attire, and more.

In 2000, Laura opened Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties to create custom doll clothing for the variety of play dolls that were on the market. Serious dollcollectors contacted her, requesting custom outfits for their vintage andcustom dolls as well as miniature bridal gown replicas.Laura, who has lived in the Concord area with her family for the last 22years, says her business grew naturally. "While I was homeschooling our daughters," she says, "they kept asking for certain doll clothing. As friends and family saw my work, they asked if I would sell them, which started my business beyond just making doll clothing".

Laura’s work has been featured in magazines, and has created custom dollclothing for professional doll designers.

In addition to her delicate and beautiful work in miniature and personal service, Laura creates a range of accessories, infant and toddler blankets and quilts, therapy rice bags, totes, home decor and other gift items. Flexible hours are provided so that she can work around customers work schedules.

When Laura isn’t busy working or spending time with her family, she’s donating her time and sewing skills to the Family Place at Concord Hospital to create special shirts for mothers of preemie infants.

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Colors of Fall & Fisherman's Lap quilt

2009-10-01T06:53:00.000-04:00

Good morning. I have decided to add a blog for my website, to provide an area where I can share thoughts, new products and provide an avenue for customers to leave comments and ask questions.

October is like a new beginning. Here in NH we begin our days with a new tapestry of color as we experience God's beauty throughout the hours of each day. The colors change so quickly, and look brilliant whether the day brings rays of warmth and sunshine or rain. It's an amazing time of year.

Last night I worked on a new lap quilt. It is called "Gone Fishin' ". Initially I was planning a simple infant/toddler quilt, but as I put the fabrics together, I realized that this particular quilt would be a beautiful gift for someone who enjoys fishing. Whether you have a child that likes to go fishing with their daddy, a hubby or wife who would love to have a lightweight quilt to keep the chill at bay, whether on the couch or in the car. Another person I thought of was a grandfather, who might reside in a long-term health facility, that would really appreciate keeping their legs from being chilled.

The quilt is made from a large print fish fabric that has beautiful colors. With the thought of creating a quilt around this piece of fabric, I went shopping to see what I could find to compliment it. In doing so, I found that it was really difficult to find the perfect blue that would match the blue water colors in the initial print. Then I found this beautiful fabric I choose as the backing, that has fishing creels, reels, fishing poles, etc, with a neutral tan background. Taking this into account, I brought the backing together with the colors in the main fabric on the front, and used a brown print that pulls the quilt together. For the filling, I did not put a heavy polyfil or warm'n natural fill, but rather used ecology cloth, that actually makes it lightweight, yet heavy enough to keep the chill off. With this idea, the quilt can be used in many climates, including FL where many from NH seem to travel to in the winter, cool months.

I added pictures of the above quilt to my page where one can view other quilts that are for infants/toddlers http://www.davinadawnsewing.com/quilts.htm

With the cool autumn weather, I am thinking of warm items to create for family gifts as well as gift items for my website.

I do hope that today brings you much joy, filled with God's beauty and love.