What we can do
Shirt shape and darts
We can take in the sides or add darts for a closer fit through the body. We’ll check it feels good sitting down and reaching, not just standing in front of the mirror.
Sleeves and length
Shorten the sleeves or the body while keeping the cuffs, buttons and hem shape looking right. Want a little more length? We’ll check whether there’s enough fabric tucked inside.
T-shirts and casual tops
Loose sides, wide sleeves, a hem that’s too long or a neckline you’d like changed: all fixable. Stretch fabrics get a stitch that moves with them.
Collars, cuffs and details
Worn cuffs, loose buttons and damaged pockets can often be repaired. Some fixes need replacement fabric or parts, and we’ll let you know if yours does.
Pockets, tears and seams
We can add or remove a shirt pocket, mend tears and holes, and reinforce seams that take a lot of strain, such as the underarms and sides.
How much does it cost?
Cuff construction, fabric stretch, darts, buttons and the number of changes all affect the price.
| Alteration | Indicative price |
|---|---|
| Shorten a shirt bodyCurved hems, fabric and side-seam details affect the finish. | $30–$45 |
These are guides for the named alteration on one garment, not fixed quotes or maximum prices. Listed extras are added to the guide price and can be combined. Fabric, finish, construction and any other extra work can change the price, so we’ll always check your garment and confirm the quote before we start. Express surcharges are extra.
Price guide reviewed 20 October 2026.
A shirt that fits the way you wear it
Body shape, darts and sleeve width
A slimmer shirt might need the side seams, back darts or sleeves adjusted. We look at them together, so you still have room through the shoulders and arms. Tell us whether you wear it tucked in or out, and bring your usual jacket if you want everything to work together. Blouses and stretch tops are made differently from a business shirt, and we’ll tailor the approach to suit.
Cuffs, collars and curved hems
Shortening a cuffed sleeve is a different job from hemming a T-shirt sleeve. The buttons, the sleeve opening and how much comes off all play a part. Shirt bodies can have a curved hem, side vents or a contrasting panel we’ll keep in place. We also repair worn cuffs, loose collar stitching and buttons, using matching parts where we can.
Your questions
Can you make a shirt slimmer?
Yes! We’ll look at the side seams, darts and sleeves, and pin a shape that’s comfortable and doesn’t pull at the buttons.
Can you lengthen shirt sleeves?
Sometimes. It comes down to how much fabric is inside and how the cuff is made. We’ll take a look and tell you straight away.
Why is there no single sleeve-shortening price?
Moving a cuff, changing a sleeve opening and taking up a plain sleeve are different jobs. We’ll confirm the technique and the price at your fitting. The body-shortening guide above isn’t a sleeve price.
Can you alter blouses and T-shirts?
Yes! Tell us whether you want a closer fit, a shorter length or a repair. The stretch, neckline, sleeves and any details help us choose the best way to do it.
Should I alter a business shirt myself?
If you’re handy with a sewing machine, maybe. But matching the original seams, keeping a curved hem even and reworking cuffs takes more than a straight line of stitching. If you’re unsure, bring it in before you cut.
How long will the work take, and is express available?
Most simple jobs are ready in 3–5 days, and more complex work in 1–2 weeks. In a rush? Express options are available for an extra fee. Just tell us your deadline. Express rates are 30% for same-day, 20% for next-day and 10% for two-day work, or 40% for same-day and 30% for next-day on Saturdays. Express depends on how busy we are, so we’ll confirm it and your pickup time before we start.