Important Announcement: Closure of Taroona Premises Due to Relocation"

We have an important announcement to share with our loyal customers. 1st 4 Sewing will be closing its doors at Taroona.  While we won't be able to take our current customers with us, we want to keep you informed about our closure at 11 Nubeena Crescent, Taroona.

Relocation Details:

Our decision to move signifies a new chapter in our journey. While it's unfortunate that we can't continue serving our current customers at our existing location, we see this as an opportunity to explore new horizons.

Taroona Premises:

In preparation for the move, we will need to close our current establishment effective immediately. We will remain open for customers with current work/projects but will not be taking on any further sewing alterations or projects until we have moved. 

We understand this may be disappointing, and we appreciate your understanding as we undertake this necessary step for a smooth transition.

Saying Goodbye:

We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to all our customers who have been with us on this journey. Your loyalty and support means the world to us.

Stay Informed:

Please stay connected with us through our website and social media channels for updates on the relocation and any future plans.

Change is a part of life, and we're excited about this new chapter. While we say goodbye to Taroona, we remain grateful for your support. Keep an eye on our updates, and we hope our paths may cross again in the future. 

Thank you for being a part of 1st 4 Sewing.

"Revamping a Retro Bus: Crafting Cozy Comfort with Natural Fabrics

I recently had the opportunity to help breathe new life into the interior of a Mitsubishi Centurian Camper bus.  This project involved transforming a retro bus into a comfortable modern haven.

Design and colour palette

In the interior design, we prioritised brightness by making the most of the expansive windows. 

Our goal was to maintain a seamless flow between the dinette and sleeping area, so we carefully crafted low-profile furniture that wouldn't obstruct the stunning views or the sense of connection with the surroundings. 

We positioned the bathroom so that it could be easily accessed from outside and included a pull out pantry to make the most of the available space in the kitchen. 

The color palette for this project drew inspiration from a blend of modern and contemporary aesthetics with a casual, earthy twist. 

To give a sense of volume and light we used white on the upright walls and panneling. 

Taking cues from the retro cream and sage green exterior of the bus, we used these colours within the interor, creating a soothing and inviting atmosphere. 

To complement this base, we introduced earthy tones like terracotta and wood, bringing warmth and natural beauty to the space. 

The inclusion of green plants further enriched the palette, connecting the interior with the great outdoors, resulting in a harmonious and inviting environment.

Championing Sustainable Elegance

Committed to sustainability, we choose natural fibres including linen, organic cotton, and wool. We selected Haymes low voc acrylic paint for the timber panelling and natural timber oil on the wooden trims.Where ever possible, all the solid wood for the bus was upcycled from the previous fit out. Drawer and door handles with raw edges where upcycled from Doublas Pine studs and recycled Blackwood was used on the flooring. Even the bathroom sink was a repurposed wooden bowl.

Elevating the Dining Area

One of the most important areas in this project was the custom dinette seating. One of the most used areas in the bus, it needed to be comfortable, cozy and an inviting hub for meals and relaxation. I covered the fresh, high density foam cushions with breathable organic cotton linings and then crafted practical, removable slipcovers for the seating, utilizing a two-tone approach. For the bottom cushions, where comfort and durability were paramount, I selected a darker, cozy wool fabric that would be durable, hard wearing nad stand up against marking and staining. To brighten up the interior and create a contrast, I opted for a cream cotton fabric for the back cushions, the same fabric that was used on the blinds. This carefully chosen combination of materials adds both functionality and aesthetic charm to the seating area

Bed Back Rest, Plush Pillows, Cushions and a Snug Duvet

Linen cushions in a soft sage colour and cream where chosen to tie the bedding and dinette together. I handcrafted smaller, cushions for the seating area and a larger european pillow to provide together with a covered bed backrest for support. These items encourage the use of this space to be used as a additional 'hang out' area. Like the bottom dinette cushions, needing practicality and aesthetics, an earthy, warm terracotta shade was selected for the doona.  

Innovative Blinds for Privacy and Ventilation

A unique feature of this project was the unique blind system I designed. Unlike traditional curtains, these were versatile, offering multiple positions allowing for both privacy and cross-ventilation from the top sliding windows. This ingenious addition added to the comfort and functionality of the retro bus.

Safety was of utmost importance near the woodstove, where I crafted a curtain from fireproof fiberglass material. 

The result of this project is a transformation that reflects my passion for craftsmanship and sustainability. It serves as a reminder that the past can be reimagined to create spaces that are not only beautiful but also eco-friendly and inviting.

If you're inspired by this retro bus renovation and are dreaming of your own unique project, please don't hesitate to get in touch with me. 

I'd love to bring your vision to life, creating a space that combines beauty, sustainability, and comfort. 

Contact me today, and let's embark on this exciting journey together!

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Do your Services Cost?

Our website's Price List page displays our highly competitive prices. If you require a service that is not listed, please do not hesitate to contact us via email to obtain a complimentary quote without any obligation.

Do you do sewing other than garment alterations?

Yes, we can help you with a wide range of sewing projects, including patternmaking, replicating a favourite item, cutting and constructing an item from an existing pattern, helping with finishing a partially completed project, provide advise on sewing, sewing machine tuition, teaching sewing skills either one on one, or with small groups. We offer hand sewing services, darning and repairs for most sewn items.  Please give us a call to see how we can help on 0468399614 or by email cathy@1st4.mobi.

What price range should I expect for wedding dress alterations?

Wedding dresses require a lot more work,time and care than a normal dress and subsequently will cost more. Please expect a price range of $300-$1000 depending on the alterations required. Please note minor alterations could be less or some other extra complex alterations could cost even more. You can always email us with pictures to get a more accurate quote.

How long will my alteration take?

The regular alteration requests are typically processed within 1-7 business days, while bridal alterations may take up to 5 weeks. For minor adjustments such as standard pants shortening, we offer same or next-day service from Monday to Friday, subject to availability. We are open to providing express service upon request, whenever feasible.

Can you help with emergency repairs at short notice?

Yes, we understand that unexpected situations may arise, and we offer emergency repair services to cater to such needs. Please feel free to contact us as soon as possible, and we will do our best to accommodate your request at short notice. Or if you are only in Hobart for the day let us know that you would like a speedy turnaround.

Do I need to book an appointment?

We are open 9am -5pm, Monday to Friday, and 9am to 2pm Saturday. We prefer to operate on a booking basis to avoid double-ups and delays for our customers.  Please see our Contact Page if you would like to make an appointment.  We are happy to arrange out of hours and weekend appointments too. 

What do I need to bring to an appointment?

It is advisable to bring along the shoes that go with a garment if you need it to be shortened.  For special occasion outfits that require special undergarments such as shapewear, bras, bustiers or bodices, we also suggest bringing them along for accurate fittings. 

Where are you located?

We are conveniently located at 11 Nubeena Crescent, Taroona TAS 7053, we have a Google map on our Contact Page for directions . 

Do you off any discount for bulk orders?

Yes, for bulk alteration orders please contact us to discuss options and possibilities. Often we can charge by the hour, rather than by the item, for larger orders which can provide a significant saving for you.  

What forms of payment to you provide?

We accept various forms of payment, including credit or debit cards, cash, and bank transfers. You can choose the payment option that is most convenient for you.

Do you offer alteration services to rural areas of Tasmania?

Yes, we take pleasure in assisting customers from rural areas of Tasmania by receiving posted items that have already been pinned by the client. Alternatively, if you are visiting Hobart, you can drop your item off or have it fitted. Then, after the alterations have been completed we offer the service of posting back the altered items to the client, for a small postage and handling fee. 

What is the best way to contact 1st 4 Sewing?

We can be contacted by email via our Contact Page, or email cathy@1st4.mobi or by texting/ phoning our 0468399614.

Do you have a Facebook page?

Yes, we have an active Facebook page where we regularly update our customers with our latest services, promotions, and events. We encourage you to follow us on Facebook to stay informed and engage with us.

Do you have a YouTube Channel?

Absolutely, 1st 4 Sewing maintains an active YouTube channel where we showcase our services, demonstrate alteration techniques, and share styling tips with our viewers. We invite you to subscribe to our channel to stay up-to-date with our latest content.

How do the Workshops or One on One Classes work?

Our workshops and one-on-one classes are designed to provide hands-on training for individuals interested in learning how to sew. The workshops are conducted in a group setting, while the one-on-one classes are personalized and tailored to your specific needs.

To reduce costs, we suggest getting a group of friends together and booking a workshop session as a group. This not only makes the session more affordable, but it also creates a fun and interactive learning environment. Please contact us for more information on our workshop and one-on-one class schedules and pricing.

No Job Too Small or Too Big - Hobart Sewing Services

Sewing is an art that requires patience, skill, and attention to detail. Whether it's a minor alteration or a complex custom-made garment, no job is too small or too big for our sewing services company.

Many people may believe that small sewing jobs are not worth the time or effort, but we know that even the smallest alteration or repair can make a big difference in the appearance and functionality of a garment. A hem that is too long can make a person appear sloppy, while a hem that is too short can be uncomfortable and restrict movement. 

On the other hand, waiting too long to repair a tear or a worn-out hem can result in more significant damage that can be more expensive and time-consuming to fix. As we say, "a stitch in time saves nine."

Sewing can be a practical and cost-effective way to maintain and repair clothing. By repairing minor damage early on, our customers can extend the lifespan of their garments and avoid more expensive and time-consuming repairs down the line. Additionally, sewing allows us to personalize and customize garments to fit our customers' unique needs and preferences. From minor repairs to complex custom-made garments, every project is an opportunity to create something unique and special.

At our sewing services company, we are committed to providing high-quality services for all types of sewing projects. Whether it's a simple repair, a complex custom-made garment, or a bespoke sewing item, we approach every project with the same level of care and attention to detail. Our skilled and experienced seamstress takes pride in delivering practical, cost-effective, and personalized solutions for all of our customers' sewing needs.

In conclusion, when it comes to sewing, no job is too small or too big. From minor alterations to complex custom-made garments, every project deserves attention and care. By repairing minor damage early on, our customers can extend the lifespan of their garments and save money in the long run. 

At our sewing services company, we are committed to providing high-quality services for all types of sewing projects, and we look forward to continuing to serve our customers with the art of sewing.