Keep the stitches small and even. Hold the garment secure and near the window. Stitch…stitch…stitch. The seamstress plies her trade.
Measure the customer to obtain a proper fit. What sort of undergarments will she wear with the new dress. Perhaps we can sew new ones of fine cotton.
Repair and refresh an older gown. Let me make a plan. New ribbons and buttons? New undersleeves? A little lace?
The style of a little girl’s dress has remained remarkably stable since the 18th century. Yes, trim and length changes, but the neckline and sleeves stay much the same.
A good seamstress was always in demand during the mid-19th century. Mass produced, factory clothes were beginning to replace custom-made (thanks to the sewing machine) but for anything special, or alterations, you visited the local dressmaker.
Check out the sweet historical romance, Stitching a Dream, to learn the story of one young seamstress and mother in an Illinois river town. Polly’s life is filled with surprises. Here’s the link to the book: https://amzn.to/3VwoeFh
