Graduations are happening all over, and girls tend to especially care about their dresses, though I have witnessed some noteworthy tuxes over the years. Several graduates came to me this spring for alterations. One needed straps on her gown, another wanted lacing on the back. Today I worked on a dress destined to be taken in, which is always
easier than taking it out, though there are ways to accomplish that too.
I started ripping the threads between the skirt and the bodice, taking care not to cut the fabric. After a bit I realized I could in fact be hard on the part of the bodice that was getting trimmed off by two inches. It was headed for the trash. The lower material was staying and needed a gentle touch. I greatly appreciate that fabric can be taken apart and resewn. Having ripped and redone seams
multiple times on obstinate projects, I know that fabric, velvet aside, can handle it.
After the skirt was gathered more snuggly, I attached it to the more slender bodice and added fresh buttonholes. Then came the buttons, which also bear the burden of repositioning gracefully, and it was done. The owner took it home to try on but I think she will be pleased.
Marriage is a chance to dress ourselves more artfully. If I refuse to let
go of any parts of myself that I feel attached to, like a penchant to complain, it can be hard to get a good fit. I need to face that there are aspects of me that are best chopped away.
The other day a friend mentioned that her husband hurt her feelings, and when she told him he was unwilling to apologize. This added to the bruise. She explained what happened, but instead of expressing regret, he justified his actions.
A seamstress
knows that a lovely fitting garment necessitates scraps being left on the floor. Relationships work better that way too.
