What Does a Tailor Do at an Alterations Shop?

Posted on April 21, 2021 by admin

An alterations tailor is a professional seamstress that customizes or alters clothing, apparel, and other existing fabrics or garments. They are different from standard tailors because they do not typically create and fabricate clothing or apparel; instead, they alter or service existing pieces. Alterations tailors are commonly employed by large-scale department stores, clothiers, or they operate their own private business. Professional alteration specialists can alter or fix clothing, apparel, home décor, fabrics, and more. They perform these duties for men, women, adolescents, children, infants, and more.

Continue reading to learn more about what a tailor does at an alterations shop, including what they can do for you!

What You Can Expect From Professional Tailoring Services

Tailors Work With Virtually All Garments and Fabrics

There is no end to the types of fabrics and clothing an alterations tailor will fix. They accept old clothing, costumes, new clothing, barely-worn clothing, wedding attire, suits, curtains, and more. These alterations can range in level of difficulty, from simple to highly complex. This is why there is no definite price or cost associated with tailoring services. It is all dependent on the amount of time, labor, and materials needed to complete the task.

Tailors Prefer to Have Client Fittings for Best Results

Most alteration specialists prefer to have their client present for measurement and assessment purposes. Unfortunately, this is not always possible. When a person cannot be present for a fitting, the alterations can be much more difficult to complete. In the case that a client cannot come in for an appointment, the tailor will simply receive the article of clothing with a tag on it, explain the alteration instructions. This is not the best case scenario for customer or tailor. Measuring the progress of a custom fitting or alteration is vital for a perfect fit or repair.

Tailors are Exceptionally Good at Clothing Repair

The most prevalent requests at an alterations shop are clothing repairs. Issues like ripped or torn clothing, stretched collars and sleeves, lapels, pockets, hemlines, and more are the most common alterations for clothing. They can even mend rugs, curtains, tablecloths, and various other fabric home décor!

They are Also the Best for Formal Clothing Alterations

As for formal wear, wedding dress alterations is by far the most popular. Almost every bride requires Indianapolis wedding dress tailoring to get that perfect fit. The same goes for bridesmaid dresses and tuxedos. Tailors are also adept at all other types of formal wear alterations, such as business suits, evening gowns, recital outfits, costumes, and more.

Tailors Need Time to Get it Just Right

Alteration shops really encourage clients to bring their garments in for modifications and repairs as early as possible to ensure they are ready by the desired date or occasion. Once in the hands of the tailor, the amount of time it takes for the alteration to be finished depends on a variety of factors, including the number of fittings needed, size of the garment, complexity of the alteration, and more. Well-established alterations shops can often provide same-day alterations and rush alterations upon request.

Are you in need of some clothing repairs, or perhaps professional alterations for an upcoming special event? Contact Yong’s Alterations at 317-845-9077 for the best-rated alteration services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We tailor men, women, children, and even home décor!

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What Makes a Really Good Tailor?
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4 Ways to Prevent a Sewing Machine From Swallowing Fine Fabric

Posted on December 9, 2020 by admin

As someone who uses the sewing machine often, you know there is nothing more frustrating than that moment your fabric gets sucked under the needle plate. No matter how easily your sewing project is coasting along as you run your fabric through your machine, this sewing blunder can happen to anyone at any moment in time. Fortunately, there are several ways to prevent your sewing machine from destroying your fine fabrics. After all these materials are not cheap; right? So, we must protect them at all costs. Plus, we want our finished pieces to come out perfect!

Rather than researching every single possible way you can prevent sewing machine fabric swallowing, simply continue below to learn the top four methods that are sure to work for you.

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Switch to a Finer Needle

When sewing with fine fabrics, one of the best ways to prevent sewing machine swallowing problems is to simply switch to a finer needle. You can find the vast array of needle types and sizes at any local fabric or craft store, as well as online, through various vendors and retailers. Opt for needled labelled 60 or 70 on the pack.

Cover the Needle Plate Hole

Although this might sound like it could impede your sewing project process, using a but a sticky tape to cover the needle plate hole is a great way to quickly stop a sewing machine from swallowing up your fine fabrics. Try to use a very small piece of tape, as small as you can make it while still covering the hole. Then, before you begin stitching, pierce a single hole in the tape with your sewing machine.

Never Start on a Raw Edge

Beginning your sewing work on the raw edge of a piece of fabric is a common novice sewing mistake. What sewing enthusiasts eventually learn is, doing so will cause your sewing machine to suck up your fabric underneath the needle plate. So, in order to prevent this from happening one surefire precaution is to never start sewing on a raw edge. For pleats and darts, start from the inside and work your way towards the edges. For seams, start a little inward from the edge.

Consider Chain Stitching

Another common method to prevent a sewing machine from swallowing up fabrics, especially fine fabrics, is to use the chain stitching approach. Chain stitching is the process of sewing together multiple pieces without stopping in between to lower or raise the presser foot. This technique is often used to speed up the sewing process. For those in a hurry, chain stitching is your go to sewing machine method.

Need Help With Your Sewing and Clothing Modifications?

Call Yong’s Alterations at 317-845-9077 for professional clothing alterations in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are expert tailors who provide affordable alterations for men, women, children, and home décor. Bring us your sewing projects, costumes, coats, suits, dresses, formal wear, team jerseys, curtains, upholstery, and more! Call 317-845-9077 to request a free estimate for Indianapolis Alterations, today.

How to Get Your Fabric Ready Before Sewing

Posted on November 11, 2020 by admin

Before you ever thread a needle through, it is important to take the proper steps to prepare your fabrics for a sewing project. Continue below to learn everything from confirming the front and backside of your material, to washing, ironing, pinning, cutting, and even identifying the grain.

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Fabric Preparation Guide

When you purchase your sewing fabrics and materials at the store, they are not necessarily “sewing ready” in their current condition. To ensure the best possible results of your sewing project, it is important to pre-treat and prepare your fabrics prior to any cutting, pinning, or stitching. On a side note, if you wish to color treat or dye your fabrics, this must be done before you begin stitching as well. Here is a brief rundown on the best ways to prepare fabric for sewing:

▶ Cleaning

At the store, fabrics are not fully-protected on the shelf. So, when you bring them home, they are likely covered in dust, which can contain some very undesirable, microscopic contaminants like dead skin and dust mites. So, your first best-practice for prepping your fabrics is to wash them with a quality liquid detergent, either by hand or on the delicate cycle in your washing machine. Also, be sure to lay them flat and allow them to dry to completion. Do not dry them in the dryer, even on low or air only. The process can still cause visible changes in the quality of the fabric.

▶ Pressing

Once your fabrics are clean and dry, you will want to perfect them by releasing any lines, warps, crinkles, or wrinkles. You can choose from a selection of options. You can press fabrics with a fabric pressing machine; you can iron them by hand; or you can steam them. Either way, pressing out your fabrics will give them an added luster, and make sewing much easier.

▶ Identifying

There are certain things you need to locate or identify before getting started with sewing. After washing, drying, and pressing your fabrics, your next step is to determine which is the front and which is the back. Typically, this is pretty obvious, as backsides are usually faded or have indiscernible patterns. The fabric front is referred to as the right side, which should be the side you plan to have facing outward in your sewing piece. Another important part of this step is to identify the direction of the grain. The grain is important to the way your piece drapes, and ultimately, performs. Warp are lengthwise threads, while weft are crosswise, which run parallel and perpendicular to the selvage.

▶ Cutting and Pinning

At this point, your fabrics are ready to begin the sewing process, but not before a few more steps. Here, you can start measuring and cutting out your fabric pieces or templates. You can also start pinning any appliques or pieces to your fabrics. Be sure to avoid any wrinkles by laying your fabrics flat during this step. Also, be sure to pin pieces together inside the seam allowance to avoid bunching. When cutting, be sure your scissors or shears are as sharp as they can be for fine cuts.

Need Help With Sewing in Indianapolis, Indiana?

Call Yong’s Alterations at 317-845-9077 for professional alteration services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are expert tailors who provide affordable alterations for men, women, children, and home décor. Bring us your sewing projects, costumes, coats, suits, dresses, formal wear, team jerseys, curtains, upholstery, and more! Call 317-845-9077 to request a free estimate for Indianapolis Alterations, today.

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Modern Elements of a Sewing Room

Posted on September 28, 2020 by admin

If you finally have some space for a sewing room, it is something to celebrate. Start by imagining your dream sewing space, and then write down a list of everything you want, and everything you must have. For a basic guide, there are certain elements of a traditional, yet modern-day, sewing room that you can use to create your final plan.

Continue reading to learn what these elements are, and where you can get additional sewers’ advice you can trust.

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Sewing Room Basics You Need to Consider:

Lighting

You will need to see when you work, so be sure your sewing room has proper lighting. Tabletop lamps combined with sufficient overhead lighting are recommended for smaller rooms. Larger rooms might require additional floor lamps or sconces.

Power

Electricity is going to be something you will use in your sewing room each time you are in there. Your sewing machine, iron, steamer, and other electronic devices will require power. So, be sure to coordinate your outlets and power strips accordingly.

Flooring

There is an ongoing debate among sewing enthusiasts on which flooring is the best for sew rooms. The real answer depends on your personal preferences. Many prefer smooth surfaces, like vinyl, laminate, or wood, to make sweeping and cleanup easier. Also, finding small needs and other sewing accessories in shaggy carpet is not easy.

Sewing Station

You will need to set aside enough space for your sewing station. This might include a table and chair that houses your sewing machine and all your sewing accessories.

Cutting Table

If you plan on cutting your work fabrics, you will need a cutting station. You can get quality cutting tables online, or at your local sewing retail store.

Ironing Station

Working with fabric will naturally cause wrinkling and cinching. To make sure your sewing pieces are smooth and wrinkle-free, add in space for an ironing and steaming station.

Hanging Space

If you are working with clothing or larger, draping pieces, you will want to have space in your sewing room to hang items up. Simply go with a few racks, or create your own built-ins.

Storage

You will need a place to put all of your extra sewing products and supplies, so be sure you set aside space for this in your sewing room schematics. You can add bins and drawer systems, armorers, cabinets, or shelves.

Waste

You will have things to throw away when you are in your sewing room working. So, be sure to have plans for both your garbage items and your recyclable sewing scraps.

Additional Elements to Consider:

➛ Mirrors – If you plan to sew clothing and other wardrobe garments, tall mirrors can deliver convenient fittings and gauge size adjustments.

➛ Computer – Add space for a computer if you are running a business, have a blog or website, a video channel, or other internet and bookkeeping needs.

➛ Display Station – You might decide to display your work, whether for at-home sales, personal attribution, or organization, add room for a display station.

Need Some Sewing Help in Indianapolis?

Call Yong’s Alterations at 317-845-9077 for professional sewing alterations in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are expert tailors who provide affordable alterations for men, women, children, and home décor. Bring us your costumes, coats, suits, dresses, formal wear, team jerseys, curtains, upholstery, and more! Request a free quote for Indianapolis clothing alterations, today.

3 Effective Methods of Removing Ink Stains From Clothes

Posted on July 31, 2020 by admin

Whether in the office or at home, if you have pens, you’re bound to get ink stains. The problem with ink stains is that they tend to worsen from the moment of contact. Especially more absorbent garment materials, like cotton and nylon, will cause an ink stain to become bigger since the absorption rate is higher. But the next time you get an ink stain on your favorite button down or office dress, turn to this incredibly effective and simple solution for getting them out, and fast.

Ink Stain Removal That Actually Works on Clothes

Got a bottle of hairspray? That’s right; conventional, store-bought hair spray straight from your bathroom closet will work effectively to lift out ink blots. Just grab a couple paper towels and place them on your work surface for protection. This layer of paper towel will help control any ink transfer, so that your counter or table does not get stained too.

Place your garment stain-side-down on the paper towels. Then spray several times over the ink spot. Allow the hairspray to sit for a few minutes, then using a clean, damp towel, carefully dab the spot, being mindful not to rub, or scrub, or press too hard. You may need to repeat these steps a couple of times. After you are done, wash your garment on cold with a mild detergent, then dry it on high heart to finish.

Ink Stain Removal From Suede and Leather

High quality, specialty materials like suede and leather require a different approach to ink stain removal. See our blog, “How to Get Ink Out of Leather” to learn how to treat leather jackets, purses, and even couches that are stricken with ink stains. As for suede, like shoes, jackets, and even that darling chaise lounge in your living room, you will need some fine grit sandpaper. Simply buff away the ink stain using gentle, delicate pressure, and even strokes. Once you have lifted most of the ink away, gently scrub it with a soft-bristle brush dipped in white vinegar. To finish, use a toothbrush to smooth the suede back out.

Where to Get Help With Sewing and Alterations in Indianapolis

Call Yong’s Alterations at 317-845-9077 for professional home décor and clothing alterations in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are expert tailors who provide affordable alterations for men, women, children, and home décor. Bring us your sewing projects, costumes, coats, suits, dresses, formal wear, team jerseys, curtains, upholstery, and more! Call 317-845-9077 to request a free estimate for Indianapolis Alterations, today.

What Makes a Really Good Tailor?

Posted on May 26, 2020 by admin

When it comes to any type of alteration, whether for a wedding dress or a pair of work slacks, your top priority should be to find a trustworthy and experienced tailor. So, before you choose an alterations shop, be sure you know what to look for. Continue reading to learn exactly which qualities a professional tailor should have, and why these qualities make them the best choice for your alteration needs.

Experience

One of the first qualities to look for in a professional tailor is experience. Alterations is a skill more than a vocation. Not everyone possesses the talent to alter and tailor garments, clothing, and fabric. It requires several years of studying, training, practice, and apprenticeship to gain the experience necessary to become a skilled tailor.

Do not be afraid to ask a seamstress how long they’ve been involved in the industry, as well as, how long they have been an actual tailor. Keep in mind to also inquire about their specialties. A tailor that primarily provides alterations for traditional garments like shirts and pants may not have the adequate experience for sensitive projects like tuxedo or wedding dress alterations.

Credentials

Just like experience, credentials also prove a company’s ability to meet client’s needs. And not just a company, an individual as well. Check to see if the company has won any awards, or been recognized by esteemed organizations for exceptional service or values. Also research to see if they are members of the Better Business Bureau or Angie’s List. Agencies such as these are good indications that a company or tailor is reputable.

Customer Reviews

Another important credential to look for in an alterations shop is their company reputation among past clientele. You can do this by directly asking the tailor for their references, or you can look up customer reviews and testimonials on popular sites like Yelp and Angie’s List. A good company is always eager to provide references because they are confident and proud of their work.

Samples

If you do have a delicate or significant garment that needs altered, like a wedding gown, it is important to first see what the tailor is capable of in terms of talent. Ask to see samples, and not just pictures, as they can hide imperfections. Samples of clothing they have altered is a great way to evaluate their skill as a tailor. If they do not have samples, ask to see a current client’s garment that has not been altered yet, and come back after it is finished to see the final product.

Indianapolis Clothing and Formal Wear Alterations You Can Trust

Call Yong’s Alterations at 317-845-9077 for professional alterations in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are expert tailors who provide affordable alterations for men, women, children, and home décor. Bring us your costumes, coats, suits, dresses, formal wear, team jerseys, curtains, upholstery, and more! Request a free estimate for Indianapolis Alterations, today.

Recommended Labels to Put on a Sewing Machine

Posted on March 12, 2020 by admin

Whether you are new to using a sewing machine or a seasoned pro, labels can make you more efficient and increase the quality of your work. Continue below to learn which labels are most recommended, and how you can use them to enhance your sewing machine skills!

Sewing Machine Labeling Tips

Here’s a list of the parts you should label on your sewing machine, where they are located, and the purpose they serve in terms of sewing, stitching, and patchwork:

Handle Wheel

The last part to label is the hand wheel. You can spot this part at the top, far left side of the sewing machine. For newer models, this will look like a large knob, while older models have a metal wheel.

Length Stitch Knob

This knob is located at the top of the machine, on the right side. So think, “top-right” when looking at your machine. You can spot this knob because it should be marked with a number series, starting at one and ending at five.

Reverse Lever

Next, locate and label the reverse lever, also called the even switch. This part is can either be found at the front of the machine, to the left of the needle, or it can sometimes be on the left-side of the machine. It depends on the make and model sewing apparatus you have.

Stitch Width Knob

The next part to label is the stitch width knob. This is also marked by a series of numbers representing different stitch widths, just as the length stitch knob mentioned before. This knob is located right next to the stitch length knob, generally on the left side.

Tension Control Knob

The third, but equally important, part to label on your new sewing machine is the tension control knob. This should be located on the front-side of the machine next to or near the needle.

Thread Take-Up Lever

The fourth part to label is a thread take-up lever. This can also be found at the front of the machine, and to the left of the needle. Take note that this part is also somewhat inside the machine. It takes thread up and down, in the machine.

Home Decor Repair and Alterations in Indy

Call Yong’s Alterations at 317-845-9077 for professional home décor and clothing alterations in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are expert tailors who provide affordable alterations for men, women, children, and home décor. Bring us your costumes, coats, suits, dresses, formal wear, team jerseys, curtains, upholstery, and more! Request a free estimate for Indianapolis Alterations, today.

Yong's Alterations 317-845-9077 — Request a Free Estimate Today!

Tips and Tricks for Safer Sewing

Posted on August 7, 2015 by admin

When you are just starting out as a novice seamstress, there are a few rules and precautions to take note of before diving into the world of hand or machine sewing. Just as we learn the safe way to handle and use scissors as a child, you will learn these same values in terms of sewing, as well as, a few other interesting tips that can save you time, money, or a huge hassle. Continue reading to learn some helpful tips and tricks for safe sewing.

Tools for Protection

There are several sewing apparatuses that can hurt our fingers and skin, like needles, pins, seam rippers, rotary cutters, and more. Using certain sewing tools can significantly reduce the number of Band-Aids you peel through after a sewing project. Tools like thimbles are classic, yet effective in protecting fingertips from needle points and razor cuts. In fact, thimbles were among the very first sewing tools invented. Modern sewing gear that is effective at protecting fingers and skin are sewing safety gloves. They are relatively inexpensive and the perfect tool for kids and beginner seamstresses.

Safety Rules for Sewing

Aside from protective tools and apparatuses, there are certain guidelines to follow in order to remain safe while sewing. For example, it is important to never aim a seam ripper at yourself or another person. Always aim the point away from the body and do not place your hands in its way. Also, avoid poking your skin with pins. Although mild in pain, pinpoint cuts can bleed all over your garment without you realizing it, or worse, become infected.

Rotary Cutting Equipment

Rotary cutting equipment is sharp, and can easily slice through, or slice off, a finger or piece of skin. It is important to always SLOW DOWN and take your time when using rotary rulers and cutters. Be sure to line the ruler up and then stop, keeping your fingers and hands out of its path. Also, many styles of rotary blades automatically retract, but many also do not. This means to never expect your rotary blades to automatically retract. Always be sire the blade is covered and locked before placing it down or putting it away.

Furniture Protection

Although fingers and hands are important to protect, so is your furniture! Just like your skin and extremities, furniture can also be damaged by sewing tools and techniques. For example, when cutting fabric, it is always important to lay down a protective barrier on top of the surface you intend to use for a platform. Dining room tables, countertops, and more can be significantly damaged by cutters, seam rippers, and more. This leads to unsightly marks and nicks, as well as costly repairs and replacements. Try using a thick, folding cardboard poster as a liner for tables and countertops. It is thick enough to protect and easy to store.

Yong’s Alterations

Yong’s Alterations Indianapolis Indiana 317-845-9077

Call Yong’s Alterations at 317-845-9077 for professional alterations and tailoring services in Indianapolis. Located in Castleton, our alterations store is easily accessible from all areas of town, and open long hours through the week. We provide all sewing and alteration services for men, women, children, and even home décor like curtains and tablecloths! Call 317-845-9077 and speak with a friendly seamstress about our Indianapolis alteration services, prices, and specials, today.