1) Skills needed

• Sewing fundamentals: straight stitching, seam construction, finishing methods (zigzag/overlock-style finishes), pressing/ironing technique
• Alterations & fitting: taking accurate body measurements, pin fitting, understanding garment balance (hems, waist/seat adjustments, sleeve length)
• Repair techniques: mending tears, reinforcing stress points, replacing parts (zippers, buttons), hand-sewing for invisible fixes
• Fabric knowledge: how different fabrics behave (knits vs wovens, denim, delicate fabrics), choosing correct needles, thread, and stitch settings
• Pattern/garment reading: understanding seams, facings, linings, waistbands, cuffs, and how garments are assembled
• Customer & business skills: quoting jobs, setting expectations, time management, basic bookkeeping, clear communication, and quality control
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2) Common sewing repairs and duties included

Typical services:

• Hemming: pants, jeans, skirts, dresses, sleeves; keeping original hems on jeans if requested
• Zipper work: replace/repair zippers on pants, skirts, dresses, jackets; zipper sliders sometimes
• Buttons & closures: sew/replace buttons, snaps, hooks/eyes, Velcro; buttonholes (if machine supports it)
• Seam repairs: split seams, ripped areas, re-stitching seams, reinforcing underarms/crotch seams
• Patching & mending: patches on jeans/workwear, fixing small holes/tears, visible or invisible mending depending on fabric
• Adjustments/alterations: take in/let out waist, shorten/lengthen straps, simple tapering, elastic replacement in waistbands
• Basic custom items (optional): tote bags, simple curtains/hemming drapes, pillow covers, aprons, scrunchies

Business duties (non-sewing):

• Intake and tagging items, scheduling fittings, photographing before/after (optional)
• Pricing estimates, invoicing, payment collection, tracking supplies
• Machine maintenance (cleaning, changing needles), pressing and final inspection
• Packaging and customer pickup/delivery coordination (if offered)

3) Equipment needed

Core sewing setup (recommended):

• Sewing machine (reliable, with straight and zigzag; heavy-duty helpful for denim)
• Iron and ironing board (pressing is essential for professional results)
• Cutting tools: fabric scissors, small snips, seam ripper, rotary cutter + mat (optional but useful)
• Measuring & marking: measuring tape, clear ruler, tailor’s chalk or washable marker, pins/clips
• Hand-sewing tools: hand needles, thimble (optional), threader
• Threads & notions: assorted threads, replacement buttons, snaps/hooks, elastic, zippers in common sizes/colors

Nice-to-have / expand later:

• Serger/overlock machine for clean interior finishes and knit work
• Dress form (helpful but not required)
• Steam press/garment steamer for faster finishing
• Good lighting and a sturdy work table
• Storage bins for customer items and supplies, plus a label system