Find a seamstresses in Los Angeles, CA

Find seamstresses in Los Angeles, CA

Find seamstresses in Los Angeles, CA

Share a few details and we'll show you the best seamstresses in your area.
Zip code

Type of clothing
Type of service

Find seamstresses in Los Angeles, CA

Share a few details and we'll show you the best seamstresses in your area.
Zip code

Type of clothing
Type of service

Top 10 seamstresses in Los Angeles, CA

Clients agree: these vendors are highly rated for knowledge, experience, communication, and more.
Kokodoeshair

Kokodoeshair

5.0(1)
27+ years in business
Serves Los Angeles, CA
Maria H. says, "She was punctual professional and polite " Read more
California Soul

California Soul

New on Fash
4+ years in business
Serves Los Angeles, CA
I have been sewing since 12 years old. Former Fashion Design student at LATTC. Sewing/Knitting is my Yoga :) Specializing in sewing, alterations, design & pattern making!
Kimberi Salon

Kimberi Salon

New on Fash
Offers online services
Serves Los Angeles, CA
I have very good customer service making a customer feel comfortable. I am a perfectionist, I am very neat
Rachelle Appelle

Rachelle Appelle

New on Fash
6+ years in business
Serves Los Angeles, CA
I design custom wedding gowns, formalwear, and bespoke suits. I also do couture alterations.
Super Guys Inc.

Super Guys Inc.

5.0Exceptional(5)
Offers online services
8 hires on Fash
15+ years in business
Serves Los Angeles, CA
Nancy G. says, "Personable; created what I needed.😀" Read more
MsPsCollections

MsPsCollections

New on Fash
2 hires on Fash
25+ years in business
Serves Los Angeles, CA
My name is DEBORAH. I have been sewing for 40+ yrs. I also can make clothes and do alterations. I LOVE seeing my finished products and knowing my customers are pleased. I also enjoy creating new and innovative looks for customers with their visions in mind. Have made Wedding and Prom dresses. Veils, bussells, pants, skirts etc. In other words anything. I also like to up cycle clothes... Have worked for the Police in the alteration department for 7yrs... Doing suits and pants... Also worked at David's Bridal for several years...

Your seamstress questions, answered

Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Fash.

How much do seamstresses charge?

Seamstress rates are $20 to $50 per hour, on average, depending on their experience and the type of garment and fabric they are working with. Some charge by the piece, with a set range of fees for designing, sewing, alterations, and mending. Most charge a fitting fee every time you come in for a fitting and a separate pressing fee when the garment is finished.

Designing and creating a dress from scratch is more costly than having a dress hemmed or altered. Formal dresses like ball gowns or wedding dresses have added costs for specialized detailed work. Leather and lace are more difficult to hide stitching and require more time, increasing costs. Seamstresses charge by the hour or by the panel for curtains, with higher rates for thick or stretchy fabrics that are more difficult to work with.

Should you tip a seamstress?

Tipping your seamstress or seamster is not a standard practice. If they go above and beyond by squeezing you in when you were late for a fitting or rushing the alterations without charging a rush fee, then offering a gratuity of 15% to 20% is a good way to acknowledge their efforts.

What's the difference between a seamstress and a tailor?

A seamstress or seamster is a sewing professional who primarily makes clothes using a design or pattern. They also repair garments and make alterations to clothing. A seamstress works on all types of garments including men's and women's clothing and non-clothing items like curtains and pillows.

A tailor is a professional who primarily alters clothing for a customer. They hem and mend garments but can sometimes make clothes using a design or pattern. A tailor tends to work more with men's suits and coats but may also work on women's pieces including fancy dresses and ball gowns.

Both seamstresses, seamsters, and tailors work in dry cleaners, alteration establishments, and high-end fashion stores. In a bridal boutique, you are likely to work with a seamstress. In a men's suit store, you are more likely to work with a tailor.

Can any clothing be altered?

Most clothing can be altered by a skilled sewer. The easier the alteration, the less it will cost. Some easy alterations include shortening sleeves, replacing cuffs or collars, shortening hems, and taking in the waist.

Some more difficult and costly alterations include adjusting arm holes, removing pleats, and lengthening pants. Some alterations are so nearly impossible to make that they aren't worth the cost including expanding shoulder width, lengthening sleeves, or altering jacket lengths and lapels.

Can a seamstress make a dress bigger?

Yes, in most cases a seamstress can add one or more sizes to a dress by adding a fringe fabric on each side. The design may have to be altered to make the different fabrics work together, but a skilled sewer can usually come up with a creative solution.

Making a dress smaller is easier and cheaper since the fabric is already there. There is a limit to how many sizes a sewer can take off a garment without losing the entire shape. A skilled seamstress will discuss options for redesigning the garment to make it work when taking off more than a few sizes. 

How early should I book a seamstress?

Don't wait until the last minute to book a seamstress. During busy periods it could be several days before a seamstress can get you in for a consultation and fitting appointment. Then, a few more days before they can make the alterations. Rush orders tend to result in high surcharges.

For bridal gowns, it is recommended to schedule your first appointment with the seamstress 3 to 4 months before the wedding. Most wedding dresses require two or three fittings, depending on how complicated or custom the alterations are.

How do I choose a seamstress near me?

Choosing a seamstress doesn't have to be intimidating. There are plenty of experienced seamstresses and seamsters to choose from on Fash.com. Here are some guidelines to help you narrow down your choices:

  • Search and read reviews on Fash and Google.
  • Select a minimum of two or more and make appointments with each to discuss your sewing needs.
  • Go with the shop that is the most professional seamstress that can work within your budget and timeframe.
  • Review all contract terms before signing and make the final payment when you are completely satisfied with the work.

What questions should I ask when hiring a seamstress?

A professional seamstress or seamster is knowledgeable about their craft and should be willing and able to answer all of your questions. When choosing a seamstress, be sure to ask these important questions:

  • How many years have you been designing, sewing, or altering dresses or suits?
  • Can you give me an estimate in advance without a fitting charge?
  • Do you charge a flat fee for alterations or charge individually for each service?
  • Do you have a photo gallery of finished pieces I can see or a list of references I can contact?
  • How many fitting appointments will I need?
  • How long will it take to finish the garment?
  • What should I bring to my first appointment?
  • Do you press my garment before I pick it up?

Reviews for Los Angeles seamstresses

Recent success stories from people in the Los Angeles area.
Traci T.
An amazing tailor incredible prices very friendly and super talented. I had 10 chiffon skirts tailored by Douglas. Not only did he give me the best price, he did the most amazing job and even did one while I waited Very professional, personable and super talented intelligent and all around incredible person Highly highly recommend and will only use him for all my tailoring needs plus will refer to all my friends and business associates
Super Guys Inc.
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