by: Della Sue
WHEN CLOTHES ARE PERFECTED
by ONE'S OWN HANDS
I stand in front of the sewing machine with a pair with a pair of trousers that need alteration lying in front of me. I take a measuring tape and begin measuring the wasteband, which feels too loose, then mark the area that needs to be reduced using tailor's chalk. This step becomes the starting point before the trousers can be worn comfortable again.
After marking the fabric, I adjust the marked area and create neat folds according to the to the desired size. I try on the trousers to make sure they fit properly. Next, I sew the waistband with strong and tidy stitches, carefully following each fold of the fabric. Once finished, I try them on again and feel satisfied, as the trousers now look like new and feel comfortable to wear.
Measuring and sewing the waistband of the trousers
The next task is shortening the bottom of a dress. I take the fabric scissors, following the planned design. I make sure the cut is straight and balanced so the dress maintains a proportional look.
Cutting and opening the bottom of the dress
The next step is attaching the neckline facing. I sew the neckline facing with fine stitches that are not visible from the outside, then smooth and adjust it so it sits neatly around the neckline. After that, I prepare the neckline for hemming with strong and tidy stitches.
Overall, this process reflects the experience of sewing and refining garments with care and attention to details, from adjusting trousers and shortening a dress to attaching the neckline. Each step is done carefully to create clothing that is neat, comfortable and aligned with the intended design.
Sewing the neckline facing