How to Hire a Tailor

If you can't find the clothes you're looking for at a store, consider having them made. Good tailors can create garments that reflect your personal style and fit your figure impeccably. They also can perform minor miracles when you need an item updated or altered.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Yellow Pages
• Pictures

1. 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.
2. 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?
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. 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.

What to Look For:

• Personal recommendation
• Skills, experience, and specialization
• Availability and price

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure the tailor measures both legs and arms for symmetry.
• The more complex the job, the more often you may have to visit the tailor for fittings.
• See <a href="http://www.ehow.com/how_108148_buy-custom-tailored.html" target="_top">How to Buy Custom-Tailored Clothes in Asia</a>.
• Try on the tailored clothes when you pick them up to make sure they fit.

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