Welcome to 1st 4 Sewing, a premier clothing alteration and sewing repairs service dedicated to helping our clients look and feel their best. Our business, led by Cathy, a fully qualified seamstress and patternmaker with over 40 years of dressmaking experience, is passionate about delivering the highest quality results with quick turnaround times, all at an affordable price.Please note that we operate a mobile service, so be sure to contact us on 0468399614 to schedule your visit around St Helens.
About Me
I’m Cathy, a dressmaker with over 38 years of experience in sewing and tailoring, and I’m passionate about bringing garments to life.
My journey began as a child, learning the basics from my mother, who crafted clothes for me and my siblings. Those early lessons sparked a lifelong love for the craft, leading me to study fashion design at college, where I mastered patternmaking and design techniques.
My professional experience spans a wide range of roles in the fashion industry. I’ve worked in haute couture studios, creating exquisite, custom garments with intricate details. I’ve also collaborated with outdoor gear manufacturers, designing durable, functional clothing for adventurers.
As a professional patternmaker, I’ve honed my skills in crafting precise patterns, and I’ve run my own sewing and alterations businesses, serving clients with personalized care. This diverse background informs every project I take on, blending creativity with technical expertise.
Sewing is my creative outlet, and I find immense joy in transforming a piece of fabric into a beautiful garment that boosts confidence. Whether I’m reviving a cherished piece through repairs or tailoring a favorite item, I love giving clothes a new lease on life. Common alterations like hemming, adjusting seams, or tailoring waistbands are my specialties—simple changes that make a big difference in fit and feel.
I gravitate toward natural fibers like cotton, wool, linen, and silk for their breathability and versatility. These fabrics let me play with textures and patterns, showcasing my craftsmanship. My attention to detail and commitment to ensuring a perfect fit set my work apart, and I take pride in every client’s satisfaction.
I’m a firm believer in sustainable fashion. Investing in high-quality, timeless clothing that can be altered and repaired is better for the planet and your wallet than fast fashion. I’ve noticed a growing trend toward slow fashion and vintage styles, which align perfectly with my expertise in detailed tailoring.
To those eager to learn sewing, I say: start small, embrace mistakes, and have fun! Take a class, join an online sewing community, and build your skills gradually. Mistakes are just stepping stones to mastery, and the joy of creating something with your hands is worth every effort.
My advice? Care for your clothes thoughtfully. Alter them when needed, store them properly, and repair them with the help of a skilled tailor like me. By doing so, you’ll keep your wardrobe vibrant and lasting for years to come.
See our services here... and you can contact us here
