Custom Tailoring and Alterations Contract

What a good one includes

• A detailed description of the garment, starting measurements, and the specific alteration or design work agreed upon.
• A strict schedule detailing the number of permitted fittings and the deadlines by which the client must attend them to stay on track.
• Non-refundable deposit requirements, progress payment milestones, and final payment terms before the garment is allowed to leave your studio.
• An explicit clause stating the exact timeline for when an uncollected garment is deemed abandoned and how you may legally dispose of or sell it to recoup costs.
• Clear limits of liability regarding pre-existing fabric damage, delicate material risks, and third-party dry cleaning issues.
• A policy addressing how body weight or size fluctuations post-initial measurements will impact the timeline and require additional alteration fees.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Allowing clients to take finished garments home for trial wear before making their final, complete payment.
• Failing to document and require a client signature for design or fit changes made during mid-process fittings.
• Neglecting to set a firm cut-off date after which no further alterations or adjustments can be requested under the original price.
• Omitting a clear policy on who is responsible for purchasing and providing extra materials, specialty buttons, or matching threads.

Frequently asked questions