FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Lessons are charged by the hour for each student. If you prepay for a package of 5 hours the sixth is free. If you need longer to learn certain skills I am willing to help as much as I can. But know that I will try to convey the information as simply and succinctly as possible. Learning to sew will always take more than one session. Expect it to take 5 or more hours depending on your needs. Every project is different just as every person is different. And appearances can be deceiving. Some things that may seem simple are not, and something that looks complicated may actually be simple. Sometimes I cannot tell how complicated a project will be until I get started. My (sewing) base price is based on two things: 1) a project taking an hour or less to complete, including travel and fittings. 2) your providing any needed supplies. (Fabric, zippers, trim, etc.) Anything in addition to that will increase the cost. Your time is valuable and so is mine.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I often begin with a phone call or a zoom/FaceTime meeting. I find out if there are budget limitations and/or deadlines that need to be considered and I try to get an idea of what they really want. Do they want a class for a specific project for instance, or do they want to learn skills for longer term use. I can look at their equipment and determine whether video conferencing will work for lessons in their situation. If I need to examine a garment or a textile to see what repairs are needed, I can get an idea from video and photos, but to know for certain I need to hold it in my hands. I can do this several ways. They can bring it to me, or, depending on the distance, I can possibly come to them. When fittings are not needed, we can meet at a Library or another public place if that makes them more comfortable. They can also send certain things to me in the mail. I believe that honesty is the best policy. Always. So I will only charge for what I actually do. If I can do a repair when you think a replacement is needed, I will discuss it with you, and do what you prefer. I am willing to say “I don’t know” but I will always try to find an answer. And If I can’t do something I will be up front about it.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I learned from my mother, my grandmothers and my aunts, as well as Home Ec in school. I have 30+years of experience. I taught my first professional class in 2002, but have taught many friends and family members before that. I find joy in encouraging the discovery of creativity, and helping build self confidence by teaching/helping others to do things they thought they couldn’t.