Seeing us for the first time? Hooray! Here’s what you need to do. Gather all of the garments you want serviced—pack them into a paper or reusable bag that can be left with us. Please pre-wash the clothes you’re getting serviced with unscented/low scent detergent.

For a better fitting, bring clothes/shoes you might wear with your items. These are for fitting purposes only and will be sent home with you. For pants: Bring the shoes you plan to wear with them. For shirts: If you plan to wear a jacket, bring that too.

What’s the difference between hemming and alterations? 

Alterations are the process of manipulating an existing garment to better fit your body. This includes hemming, which is making a garment longer or shorter. It’s a classic alteration and the number one thing we do for folks!

Do you make custom suits/wedding dresses?

No. We aim to help folks find comfortable fit in their everyday clothes by altering shirts, pants, dresses, knits etc. We do, however, tailor existing suit jackets/slacks. 

Do you make custom binders, gaffs or other gender affirming compression undergarments?

No. These important garments are special and require specific consideration for bodily safety. Here is a good resource if you’re looking for these garments, written for trans people by trans people.

Can you make medically accessible clothing for me?

Yes!  Every piece of custom clothing we make can be designed to accommodate mobility aids, medical bags, hoses, tubes etc. We will make every effort to hear about your needs and design a garment that fits you! 

Can you make a copy of my favorite garment?

Yes! Read below about custom garments.

What is a custom garment?

This can mean that we make you a piece that fits you specifically. It can be anything! Outerwear, tops, bottoms, dresses, jumpsuits! 

It can also mean that we make an identical version of an existing garment that you love. We can also adjust the fit during that process.

Why do I need to pre-wash my clothes with unscented/low scent detergent?

Accessibility! Scent and pet hair sensitivity can affect anyone, we ask that all garments arrive as free from allergens as possible to avoid cross contamination. 

Do you ever refuse garments? 

Yes, we reserve the right to refuse any heavily scented, soiled, or pet hair covered garments. We do not offer laundry or dry cleaning services. 

You will still be responsible for the consultation fee, which can be applied to future work within 90 days from payment.

Are you size inclusive?

Yes! Custom clothing and alterations are for all bodies! Because we fit to you, all of our work applies to all people. All bodies are a gift we are honored to work with!

What can you make me?

Anything you can dream up! While we don’t focus on formal wear (wedding gowns, suits etc) we can and will work with you to design and execute a dream garment.  If we can’t do it, we will be transparent and upfront about it. 

Can anyone get work done at SODO Garment Collective?

Definitely! We will work with anyone to achieve a custom fit that makes you feel better in your body. While we specialize in folks who identify as gender expansive, we happily take clients of all identities. 

What do you mean by gender expansive?  

We use the term gender expansive as an umbrella to describe folks who do not identify as cis-gender. There is no one expression that can ever capture all of the identities in our beautiful community. Terminology is personal and evolving - we hope that you can see yourself in this language. Send us an email if you have feedback or new language to consider.

Do you work with other designers to help develop their lines?

Yes! We love to work with and support other small local designers. We offer pattern making services, grading, sample making and design support. Reach out, we’d love to see how we can elevate your brand with you. 

Can I use your services if I'm under 18?

Yes, please be accompanied by a parent, guardian, social worker or other adult support person at your appointment.

What do I need to know about entrance to your studio?

Please enter through the glass door in the front of the building and go up the 3 steps to the entry. Take a right down the hall, and take a left when you reach the end. Walk past the restroom and stairs (which are on the right) and we are straight ahead in 9-C.

*If our building is inaccessible to you, please reach out to discuss alternative options.

I have sensory needs, can you accommodate me?

Yes! To the best of our abilities, we will honor any request for accommodations. Some examples include: low or no music, TV on in the background with a comfort show/movie,  avoiding certain touch or fabrics, using stim toys, adjusting temperature, or having a support person handle the tape measure with our instruction etc. Let's talk it out in advance to set up the space in order to support you.  

Do you have a place to sit in the studio? 

Yes! We have a small table and chairs, a series of stools and rolling chairs that seat up to 350 lbs, all armless.  Please let us know if we can provide a chair with a 500lb capacity, no problem! 

Can I bring a friend/partner/parent?

Yes! We can accommodate up to one additional guest during your appointments.

Do you have Covid protocols / can I request mask wearing?

Yes! We regularly test and are happy to test on the day of your appointment. Please let us know if you prefer a masked experience. We are happy to use n95 masks, open the window and use a fan to ventilate. Please note, our building is comprised of independent studios where masking is at the discretion of the individual tenants.

Where is your studio located?

Our studio is on the first floor of a 92 year old manufacturing warehouse. The building is also home to other small businesses owned by makers and creatives across different industries.

What is your studio like?

It is a roughly 400 square foot space with north-facing windows with lots of natural light, high ceilings, and is home to a large work table and all the equipment needed to make and design clothing. We have a table and chairs, lots of stools, and a room to change in.

Is there parking?

Yes! We have a parking lot in front of the building with plenty of space.

Is there a bathroom?

Yes. There is a single-stall bathroom down the hall from our studio.

Do I tip?

Nope! We believe in flat rates that cover the costs of our labor. 

Do you offer a referral program?

Yes! We rely on word of mouth to reach our community — we offer $10 toward any future work when you refer a new client who gets a minimum of $40 in repair, custom, or mending with us. 

Do you do barter or do trades?

Yes! We love to trade services with other makers, small businesses etc. Reach out with an offer, we’ll be happy to consider it. 

Do you offer gift cards?

Yes! We want everyone to be able to support the gift of gender euphoria! Gift Cards make us more accessible to everyone. Reach out to us for more details.

What forms of payment do you take?

We accept: All major credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, Venmo.

When do you need payment?

At the time of your appointment, we charge the consultation fee $25* and/or the equivalent of half down payment for your specific work.

Remaining balances are due at pick up.

Custom clothing will vary.

*for repair and alterations, the consultation fee is applied to your work.

In the event that you chose not to proceed, the consultation fee is required and may be applied to the same work within 60 days.