By
eHow Careers & Work Editor
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Things You’ll Need:
Step1
Ask friends or your favorite salespeople for recommendations. A local fabric store is another possible source for referrals. Otherwise, look up "Tailors" in the Yellow Pages.
Step2
Talk to tailors about their skills and experience. Do they specialize in a certain sort of work, such as bridal gowns or suits? Women's or men's clothing?
Step3
Check availability and turnaround time. If possible, give the tailor a deadline that's a few weeks before you need an item, in case of an unexpected delay.
Step4
Inquire about their rates. Although tailors should be able to give you a ballpark estimate, they'll need specifics before they will give you a firm price.
Step5
For custom designs, ask to see examples of their work and get the names of some of their former clients. Call the clients to see if they were happy with the work and if it was delivered on time.
Step6
Bring any garments or pictures that would help illustrate what you'd like done. If a tailor is reluctant to try something, ask why; his or her expert opinion might change your mind.
Step7
Take advantage of what tailors can do to update or alter existing garments. Generally, it's far easier to take in or shorten clothes than to let them out or lengthen them. Adding cuffs, narrowing pants legs and changing necklines are all possible. Complexity adds to the price, and some alterations aren't worth it unless the piece is very high-quality, or a beloved, irreplaceable garment.
Step8
Once the tailor has a firm idea of what you expect, get a description of the work, the price and the delivery date in writing.