Custom Cuts
As a small business, I often stock only one or two garments per size and color. Sometimes those pieces sell out faster than anticipated.
So, if you don't see your size and color in stock, there's a good chance we can help! At no extra charge, I custom-cut standard sizes in a current color (provided I have fabric in stock or the right dye bath in the works).
But I do need extra time to handle your request. I can be very quick, but if there’s a queue, it may take up to 3-4 weeks to deliver your order. If you have a special event, let me know and I’ll do my best to meet your deadline.
If a style is isn’t in stock in your desired size/color combination, just email me with the style, size, fabric weight, and color you want. I’ll let you know if I have the fabric. And if I do, I’ll send you a link to a draft order. Upon payment, I’ll begin working on your order.
Custom Cut garments are fully covered under my Satisfaction Guaranteed policy:
We sincerely want you to be pleased in every way with your Sympatico purchase. Please return any unworn item that doesn't meet your expectations within 60 days of purchase for a prompt refund or exchange. Include the original receipt, and in the case of an exchange, please let us know what you would like instead. If you request a refund, we will issue it in the same form that you made payment. We don't reimburse shipping costs.
Alterations
Need shorter hems or longer sleeves? I can usually make these and similar alterations to any Sympatico style if you give me accurate measurements and specific information about the changes you need. Click here to order standard alterations.
I don’t work with any fabrics other than my own. I also don’t copy styles or create designs from scratch. Those changes are best done by a local stitcher or tailor who can fit you in person.
I offer shorter or longer sleeves, pants inseams, skirt and top lengths, and modified elastic lengths. I also can often respond to specific needs such as extra room to accommodate under-clothing braces and similar medical needs. We will ask some very specific questions about measurements and then (usually) create a pattern that we will keep on file for reorders.
How to take accurate measurements
If you think your pattern could use a little tweaking after you receive your garment, we can make small alterations for the next rendition, but I cannot change the first. Alterations are not returnable except for defects.
Here's an idea of our alterations charges. They may vary depending upon the specific request. If what you want is not listed, email Rose for more information.
| Pants hems, shorter or longer | $12 |
| Shorten or lengthen sleeves | $15 |
| Lengthen/shorten body of garment | $15 |
| Add one or two pockets | $15 |
| Longer/shorter elastic in pants/skirts | $15 |
Note: Please list your alteration request when checking out. Add the details in Order Comments on the Checkout page.
Computer and phone screens often don’t show color shades accurately. I’m happy to mail actual fabric swatches on request. Just call 541-899-3988 or drop me an email here. Keep in mind that I work in small dye lots — the item you receive may vary slightly from the swatch. That’s why I ask if items need to match exactly when you shop Sympatico online.
How to Measure
Since I’ll be working from your measurements, it’s important to measure carefully. You may need the help of a friend to do so accurately. When you measure, it’s best to start from a seam end, for example, if you want a longer top, measure from the top of the center back seam to the desired stopping place, rather than from the mid shoulder. Two measurements can be useful, when possible. And please follow the dictum: measure twice, cut once.
How to measure for a pants inseam
Find a similar-fitting pair of pants that is the right length for you. Fold in half and lay them flat with the back out. Measure from the intersection of the crotch seams to the hem. That is your inseam length.
NOTE: Don’t use jeans. They tend to fit more closely at the pelvis than regular pants (and so the inseams are a bit longer).
Double check by measuring yourself. Does the first measurement make sense? Remember, the shoes you plan to wear may influence how long you want the inseam to be. Heels require more length.
If you’re in doubt, I’m happy to do phone consults about custom cuts, sizing, and alterations. Call me at 541-899-3988 Pacific Coast Time.