By Design
About
By Design in Alton offers several services. Custom Couture clothing is my speciality. From bride, Mother-of, prom or just a pair of pants that actually fit, clients will be very happy with their custom fit clothing.
Alterations is also a service we provide. From Bridal gowns, men’s suits or just a hem, your work will be professional and beautiful.
Sewing classes for Adults and kids are offered and are usually full. Call for information.
Lillian has been sewing and creating for 45 years. Her experience will guarantee satisfaction on whatever your project.
”Making a custom piece for a client is always a joy and usually a challenge. Each person has their own shape, way of standing and what (they perceive) as a body challenge. Creating a garment for the Mother-of, or the senior for prom or the suit for the groom is great fun for me. I make the experience equally enjoyable for my clients. From drawings, to mock ups, selection of fabrics...it’s all wonderful! It’s my passion”
”I really enjoy making clients happy. Clothing really expresses so much in our lives. We reflect ourselves often in how we dress. The fit of our clothing is such a difficult thing “off the rack”. This is where we come in. Tailoring - and everyone needs a good tailor in their life - makes such a difference. We make sleeves fit, pant length and waists, gowns - whatever our client needs, we are (usually!) able to make it work.”
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
This depends of their needs. If it is an alteration the client will need to put on their garment with the shoes and any special foundation garments (bra, shaper, etc) they may desire. The alteration is pinned into place, from a hem on your jeans to the perfect alteration on your wedding gown. Then taken to the studio workspace for completion.
For custom clothing I start by sitting and talking with my client. I sketch their ideas, sometimes from provided pictures. We discuss fabric choices, look as samples I may have and take measurements. I will email a quote. Upon acceptance, a pattern is drafted, a muslin mock up created and the fittings begin.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I, Lillian, have been sewing for 45 years, about half of that for clients. By Design in Alton is in her 12th year (WooHoo!) Most of my training and learning has been through individual classes as I’ve found them, learning from professionals in their fields (men’s tailoring from Bartleff’s Men’s Clothing Store and JCPenny men’s department, Millinary from Judith M Millinary and others, Bridal from many women who work in the industry) and lots of books.
On a trip to Italy I was able to study the construction of the TOP designer of the world and was absolutely thrilled to see that the skills I have been learning, adapting and including in my work are the same. I use Couture techniques in all my work and most especially in my custom clothing.
Formal schooling is SIUE with my BA in Art & Design with an emphasis in textiles.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your services? If so, please share the details here.
I have a price list for alterations unless it’s something unusual, which I get a lot! We can give a price on most things if you give us a call - no charge!