The process I have developed for creating original garments
focuses on balancing the cut and style you are after and
the cut and style which will flatter your unique self.
Often times, what is in fashion may look good on a
model, but the mass-produced version you find at the mall
does not look good on every body type or every body. By
creating a custom garment for you, I can take elements of
current designs and trends and adapt them to a form which
will work for you. This will mean creating a good fit for
you -- your clothes should not fit you like a glove, but
should accentuate the positive and diminish any
insecurities. With such goals in mind, the process for
garment creation takes some time as you and I work together
to create a custom fit garment that is of good quality
structurally, and which you are well satisfied with.
While the process sometimes varies due to the nature of the
project, it generally has a simple structure:
You contact me by phone (319) 621-5307 or by e-mail
(katya@ModaByKatya.com) to arrange an appointment. At the
first appointment we discuss what you have in mind, in as
much detail as possible. You might bring photos of a
friend's dress, cut-outs from magazines, swatches of
fabric, or sketches from your own imagination to illustrate
what you want. I also have a selection of European fashion
and sewing magazines which you might peruse for ideas, if
you wish. As you offer details of the item you have in
mind, I will begin sketching. As I do, you might change or
add something, and we will be able to clarify the details,
until you have finalized what you want.
At this time, I will estimate the price of creating the
garment, based on the cut of the garment, the type of
fabric you choose, and the deadline for finishing the
project. For larger projects, I may request a down payment.
Otherwise, you may pay me when you pick up your finished
garment.
I will also take your measurements at the first
appointment, so remember to wear comfortable clothing that
is not too bulky. Jeans, for example, are difficult to
measure around, but yoga pants work well. You should wear
the shoes and undergarments you intend to wear with the
garment, as the height of your heels, in particular, will
alter your posture, and, for women, the type of brassiere
can alter your figure.
Once I have your measurements, I will be able to
calculate the amount of fabric needed for the project. I
can simply recommend a fabric type for you or I can
accompany you to a local fabric store to help you choose
the fabric, if you like. Before you will go, we will set a
date for you to bring the fabric to me, so I can begin
sewing.
By the time you see me next, I will have created a
pattern, cut fabric, and sewn together the structure of the
garment. This visit will be for your first fitting. Please
be aware that this is the most unattractive stage of dress
making, because the "rough draft" does not look as the
finished garment will. For complex projects, this first
fitting will be with a dummy model of the garment, sewn
with a cheap cotton muslin fabric or paper so I can make
adjustments to the pattern before I cut into your fabric.
During this fitting I will make notations for any
necessary corrections to the constructional seams (the
shoulder, sides, dart seams, etc). Again, please remember
to wear the shoes and undergarments appropriate for this
project, as they can affect the fit.
At the second fitting, you will try on a more finished
product (again, with the appropriate shoes and
undergarments). I will make corrections again to
constructional seams, as necessary, as well as the
finishing seams, such as the length of the sleeves and the
hem.
Once we have achieved the fit and look you want, you may
take your new clothes home and enjoy wearing them.
Otherwise, we will continue making adjustments until you
are satisfied.
