Sewing services: what to know

What the job involves, what changes the price, and what to ask a pro.

What sewing services is

A seamstress or tailor handles sewing jobs such as repairing seams, replacing zippers, hemming curtains, making cushion covers, sewing bags and other everyday projects. The work is done by machine or hand, and it is matched to the fabric and the item.

Signs you need it

  • A seam has split or a hem has come down on a piece of clothing or a bag
  • A zipper has broken or needs to be replaced
  • You need curtains, cushion covers or bedding made or hemmed
  • You need a bag, cover or strap made or repaired
  • You have a special item, such as a costume or a quilt cover, that needs careful sewing

What the pro does

  • Looks at the item, the fabric and the damage, and asks what you need done
  • Picks the thread, needle and stitch that suit the fabric
  • Removes any old stitching or hardware that is in the way
  • Sews the seam, hem, zipper or new piece with care for the fabric
  • Trims, presses and finishes the edges so the work looks neat
  • Checks the finished item with you before you take it home

What changes the price

Every job is different, so we do not publish prices. These are the things that move the quote up or down.

  • The type of sewing job, such as a hem, a zipper replacement or a new piece
  • The size of the item and the amount of fabric or material needed
  • The fabric type, since heavy, delicate or stretch fabric takes more care
  • Whether a zipper, button or hardware is supplied by you or by the seamstress
  • The number of items to be sewn at one time
  • Whether a fitting or a second check is included

What a written quote should spell out

  • Each job named, such as a hem, a zipper or a new cover
  • Whether the materials, zippers, buttons and thread are included
  • Whether a fitting or a second check is included
  • The pick-up date and whether a rush is possible
  • What happens if the item cannot be repaired as planned

Questions to ask before you hire

  • Can you repair this seam without changing the look of the item?
  • Will the zipper match the color and the size of the original?
  • What thread and stitch do you use for this fabric?
  • Can you show me similar sewing work you have done?
  • Do you need a fitting or a second check before the final stitch?
  • How long will the job take?
  • What happens if the fabric tears during the repair?

Red flags

  • Sews over a damaged area without checking the fabric first
  • Uses a thread or stitch that does not suit the fabric, with no reason given
  • Cannot show work similar to yours
  • Promises a repair with no check of the fabric or the seam
  • No written terms for materials or what happens if the job fails

What you can do yourself

You can sew a straight seam, a basic hem or a button by hand with a simple thread and needle. Test your stitch on a scrap of the same fabric first. Hire a seamstress for zippers, heavy fabrics, lined items, curtains, bags, and any repair where a mistake would be hard to undo.

Licenses and permits

A license is often not required for sewing services, but rules differ by state and city. Ask for a portfolio of similar sewing jobs and proof of training or trade experience.

Sewing services questions

Can every zipper be replaced?

Most zippers can be replaced, but the type, length and the garment affect the result. Ask the seamstress to check the zipper type and the garment before they start.

Should I bring the fabric or the item?

Bring the item, and a scrap of the fabric if you have one. The scrap helps the seamstress match the thread and the color, and it lets them test the stitch.

How long does a simple hem take?

A simple hem is often a quick job, but the time depends on the fabric, the length and the seamstress's schedule. Ask for a pick-up date when you drop the item off.

About this guide

This national guide is written and checked by infinibell. Rules and conditions differ by place, so local pros are credited on guides for the cities they serve, not on national ones.

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  3. 3. They reach out

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