Dressmaking 101 (part 1 of 2)

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According to surveys, there are about 22 million Americans doing some sewing at home.  Last 2007, there are about 31,500 Americans who actually make a profit out of dressmaking.  But is dressmaking just for dresses?

Dressmakers also provide tailoring services, pattern making and basic alterations. It is not only important to provide good needle skills, but it is also important to get some good fashion sense, as well.  This is why most dressmakers would not only study basic sewing techniques, but would take up fashion and design classes.

The dressmaking industry could be competitive.  Not only dressmakers would have to compete with dressmakers like themselves, they would have to share market with the rest of the clothing retail companies. So, it is important to understand the latest fashion trends and also understand what kind of clothes work for different body types.

For some dressmakers training would be by getting hands-on experience.  Apprenticeship or internship is something some dressmakers would rather have than training.  This would give the actual experience of dealing with customers and day-to-day challenges dressmakers handle.

The first records of dressmaker first appeared in the Oxford English Dictionary in 1803.  Early dressmakers would be employed by women who do not have dressmakers at home.  Most of the fashion ideas would come from the big cities like Paris or London.  Early dressmakers would have training by means of apprenticeship.  Dressmaking, during that period, requires a lot of fittings.  They would also have a trial garment which is referred to as “muslin”.