Sewing for Others

I do a few alterations for long-time customers.  Nothing complicated, usually.  Just hems and adjustments in fit.  Sometimes pillows or curtains, as you know, but no more porch cushions, as you also know.  A few monograms or names on baby items.  When potential customers call, I say that I'm not taking new customers.

There were a few weeks at the end of summer when there were no alterations at all and I could concentrate on quilting.  Now, with a new season starting, almost everyone has called.  It must be a change in season and people are getting new things that need a little adjustment.  A mother-of-the-bride needs a hem so she won't step on her dress.  Someone's golf pants are too long, someone's blouse is too big.  Etc.

I enjoy the mechanical aspect of alterations.  Changing the feet on the sewing machine, finding new thread, finding just the right needle (it really makes a difference,) threading the serger.  That last may be my favorite part because it was so hard won.

Really, I consider my work as a service, not a money-making venture.  My charges are pretty minimal.  Over the years, the customers have become friends and I enjoy their coming and going, their stories.

I think sometimes of my Aunt Nina, my dad's sister.  Her philosophy was much the same, I think, although she devoted more to it than I do.  No quilting for her.  The dining room in her house was her sewing room.  As a child, she made my dad's christening dress. As an adult she made beautiful wedding dresses.  I would love to sit down with her and just discuss . . . sewing.