In order to create exactly the garment you would like, I can discuss styles and fabrics with you, and custom make patterns that fit you perfectly. I am happy to look at any clippings or ideas you have, and also to contribute my own. I have a low hourly rate of £15, and will always try to meet your budget as best I can. Please call or email to discuss your requirements.

The Dressmaking Process

Consultation

All dressmaking projects are a collaborative effort between me and the customer to some extent. The very first step is to arrange a consultation, during which we can discuss everything about the dress you have in mind. Whether you have a very specific picture of what you want, or just a rough idea, we should be able to come up with a final design, after which I can talk you through the fabric options and we can look at some samples.

I will also take your measurements at this appointment, so that I can go on to draw up a pattern and create a cotton “Toile”, or prototype, for you to try on at your next appointment.

Toile Fitting

The second appointment is for a fitting in the toile, which will be a very unfinished and plain version of your dress in cotton or calico. Once you have it on, we’ll stand you in front of a mirror and pin it until it fits perfectly. You can also make any final design tweaks at this stage until it looks just right.

Hopefully by the end of this appointment we should have a finalised pattern which we know is going to work for you. Ideally we should also be able to identify a suitable fabric at this point, so that everything is ready to go and I can start to make up the final garment.

Fittings

The number of fittings that are required varies from project to project. The majority of the time, only one or two are necessary, although obviously more complex dresses and wedding dresses may need more than this.

Fabric Sourcing

Some customers already have a fabric in mind when they first come for a consultation, and others prefer to leave the fabric sourcing up to me. Either way is absolutely fine, and most often what happens is that we both choose a selection of samples which we can then compare at the toile fitting.

For a quote or an appointment, please get in touch using the details below:

Email: info@sara-hill.co.uk

Tel: 07525 826 172