Custom Square Dance Clothing

I will sew square dance skirts from fabric you have purchased, and add a matching yoke to a purchased man's shirt. Pricing of skirts is based on the time required. Skirts have either a standard waistband with a hook closure and inside pocket, OR an elastic waist, depending on style. I will also do prairie skirts, though they are not shown.

 To place an order contact me at wendywwalker@yahoo.com

*Fabric yardage required varies according to style and size. When you contact me with your choice of design, I will tell you how much fabric to purchase.
*Fabric should be a woven cotton of medium weight. More details below.
*Orders can be handled through the mail at your expense, or we can meet at an agreed location. I usually attend the County Line lessons in Monticello on Monday nights. If you wish to meet there, please contact me in advance to ensure I will be there.

FAQ

Why do you add a yoke to purchased man's shirt instead of making shirts from scratch?
If a man is single, it's usually possible to find western style shirts in stores for less than the cost of a custom shirt. It only becomes necessary to have a custom shirt when it needs to match the partner's skirt, or if a hard-to-find size is needed. Purchased shirts can be taken in if needed for a more fitted look. Most people will find it more cost-effective to buy a shirt of the size and quality they desire and just have the yoke added to match the woman's skirt. Also, permanent-press shirts are much easier to find than permanent-press fabrics.

Why only peasant blouses? Can you make other styles?
To be able to move freely and dance comfortably, a blouse either needs to be loose with room to move, or properly fitted through the back and sleeves. The peasant blouse is easy to size comfortably with no fitting needed. They can be made in any color you choose, and with decorative details added.

Do you make dresses, or just skirts?
I can attach a gathered skirt to one of my peasant blouses for no added charge, with one quick visit for a measurement. The dress will have an elastic waist.

What length is the skirt?
Skirts are 22" in length unless otherwise requested. This is the standard length of a petticoat.

Do you make petticoats?
No. Although I do intend to figure these out in the future, I have not yet tackled them.

Do you make pettipants?
No. I can make snug shorts from a stretch fabric which serve the same purpose without the lacy ruffles. Purchased "bike shorts" or "jazz pants" also work.

Please explain the "inside pocket" on a skirt with a waistband.
Picture a standard zipper closure on the left side of a skirt, with a hook on the waistband. Now, imagine the zipper gone and an opening where the zipper should be. When you put your hand through this opening, you find a pocket. This is how the flared skirts are made. The pocket is sewn in a way that allows the skirt to open wide enough to fit over your hips. It's handy for holding door prize tickets or a small amount of money.

Can you give more details about the type of fabric needed?
Fabrics should be woven, not knits. The staff at the fabric store can show you to the proper area. They should be of medium weight. Light gauzy fabrics are not suitable, neither are denim-weights. The prints are usually called "quilting" cottons, but other possibilities include broadcloth, calico, gingham, chambray, or lightweight khaki. The price at a fabric store vs. a similar fabric at Wal-Mart is a reflection of the quality. Better quality fabrics will hold up better with repeated washings; the colors will not fade as readily, and the garment will look newer longer.

Do you do custom sewing other than square dance clothes?
Yes. My rate is $15/hr.

What kind of payment do you accept?
I will accept cash, personal checks, or Paypal. Personal checks will be deposited, and work will not begin until the check has cleared.