Alterations and repairs · Couture Bascule
Clothing alterations in Uccle.
A successful alteration goes unnoticed: trousers hang just right, a sleeve ends in the right place, a zip runs smoothly again. This is the workshop’s most common work, from simple trouser hems to more structured garments, in all kinds of fabrics.
Alterations available
- Hems
- Trousers, skirts and dresses. We agree the length together, based on the drape you want and the shoes you will wear.
- Sleeve lengths
- Jackets, coats and shirts. Cuff buttons, vents and lining determine how the length can be altered.
- Zips
- Replacing a worn or broken zip.
- Buttons
- Sewing a loose button back on, or adding or replacing a missing or damaged button.
- Repairs
- A loose seam, a snag or wear: the repair depends on the fabric and where the damage is. I will explain what can be repaired and how.
- Leather and fur
- Restoring older leather or fur garments, after examining the piece.
Before any work begins
What I look at before altering a garment
The fabric
Its weight, flexibility and structure guide the choice of stitches and finishing.
The construction
Lining, facings and topstitching: a coat cannot be altered in the same way as cotton trousers.
The spare fabric
The fabric folded into hems and seams determines what can be lengthened or let out.
How you wear it
The occasion, your shoes and the clothes you wear with the piece all help determine the right length.
For waist adjustments, shaping a jacket or changing its cut, see adjustments and restyling.
To make the most of your visit
What to bring to the workshop.
- The garment to be altered.
- For a hem, the shoes you will wear with the garment.
- For a repair, identify the damaged area if it is hard to see.
The workshop is open Tuesday to Saturday, from 9.30 am to 12.30 pm and from 1.30 pm to 6 pm, at Rue Vanderkindere 522 in Uccle. You can also tell me what you need in writing before you visit.
Frequently asked questions
Your questions
- How much does a trouser hem cost?
- I do not publish prices online: the cost depends on the trousers, their fabric and the hem finish. I will give you a price at the workshop after seeing the piece.
- Can trousers or sleeves be lengthened?
- It depends on the fabric folded inside the hem or sleeve. If there is enough, the length can be adjusted; I can confirm this after examining the garment.
- Do you alter leather and fur?
- Yes, I restore older leather or fur garments. Every piece is different: bring it to the workshop to find out what is possible.
- What fabrics do you work with?
- I carry out alterations in all kinds of fabrics. The material determines the technique and finishing.
- How long will it take?
- It depends on the work and how busy the workshop is. If you have a deadline, a special occasion or a trip, mention it when we first speak: I will tell you what is possible.