Jae Mee Kim

Alterations Expert & Seamstress

Jae Mee Kim is an Alterations Expert & Seamstress based in Baltimore, Maryland. Jae Mee used her educational studies and her experience studying architectural design to eventually take over her family's alterations business. She has successfully been running Kim's Custom Tailor since 2015. She specializes in major and minor alterations, bridal and formal wear alterations, customization of garments, and leather repairs.

Education

  • BFA, Maryland Institute College of Art, Environmental Design

Favorite Piece of Advice

A tailored outfit empowers you to be the trend and not follow the trend, because it reflects your personal style in the most flattering way.

wikiHow's Editorial Process wikiHow partners with over 1000+ experts from a wide range of fields to ensure our content is accurate and based on well-established research and testimony. Content Managers conduct interviews and work closely with each expert to review information, answer reader questions, and add credible advice. Learn more about our editorial process and why millions of readers trust wikiHow.

Q&A Comments (4)

What can I do to make the button sturdier?
To make the sew sturdier, create a criss-cross pattern by sewing through the opposite hole and pulling the thread tightly. Repeat this process and go through each hole twice to complete four passes in total. This criss-cross technique provides extra strength and security to the button. Also, if you notice a tear where the button was previously attached, place a small piece of fabric underneath the button area before sewing. This added layer reinforces the fabric and prevents the button from ripping off again.
How can I easily alter a no-sew dress?
First, identify the areas that you need to adjust and mark them with a fabric chalk or a pin. Then, use a double-sided fabric tape for quick fixes like adjusting hems or taking in the sides. For a more permanent solution, apply fabric glue to the necessary areas, press the fabric together then let it dry. For temporary alterations, use a safety pin or decorative brooches to cinch the waist, shorten the hem, or create new shapes. Additionally, adding a belt or sash can transform the dress’s silhouette and add shape without any sewing. 
Do you have any tips for sewing a straight stitch?
First, you can use a straight ruler and fabric chalk to draw a guideline on your fabric. This helps you maintain a straight path when sewing. Then, make sure that you're using a sharp needle, this makes it easier to pierce the fabric cleanly. Also, double up on your thread for added strength, especially when sewing buttons or other high-stress areas. Lastly, using a thicker thread also contributes to sturdiness, preventing it from tearing off from the fabric. 
See more comments

Co-authored Articles (9)

How to

Fix a Gaping Shirt

A gaping shirt can be super annoying and may make you feel unprofessional. Fortunately, you have several options for fixing it! If you’re in a pinch, use a quick fix to solve your fashion faux pas temporarily. Alternat...

How to

Sew on a Shirt Button

Losing a button on a shirt is frustrating, and it can even make the shirt unwearable. Fortunately, you can replace a button in a matter of minutes! Sew a button onto a shirt using a needle and thread for an easy hand-se...

How to

Sew Cuffs on Sweatshirts

You're almost done making a sweatshirt and now it's time to finish the sleeves. Ribbing might look tricky, but it's really not hard to create ribbed cuffs for your project. The ribbed material is slightly stretchy so the...

How to

Make a Fabric Belt

Making your own belt (in this case, out of fabric), is a relatively easy way to create a one-of-a-kind piece of fashion you can call your own. Fabric belts are lightweight, making them perfect for summer. They're also hi...

How to Cut Sweatpants into Shorts (Or Make Them from Scratch)

Craft trendy DIY sweatshorts from some old sweats or from scratchIf you love how comfy and cozy sweatpants or joggers feel when it’s cold out, you’ll love how great sweatshorts feel in the summer! They’re all the r...

How to

Make a No Sew Dress

Who needs a sewing machine anyway? You can easily upcycle something you already own into an adorable dress without touching a needle and thread. All you need is a pair of scissors and a few minutes! In this article, we'l...

How to

Make a Onesie

Onesies are a convenient clothing item for babies. They keep the baby warm while making diaper changes quick and easy. They can get expensive, however, especially for a growing or messy baby! Luckily, it is easy to make ...

How to

Make a Pincushion

A pincushion is a stuffed piece of fabric that you can insert pins into. Pincushions are essential for sewing and other types of craft projects. There are many ways to make a pincushion! Sew a quick and easy square-shape...

How to

Sew a Baby Dress

Learning to make your own baby clothes can save you money, since many children only get a few month's use out of them. You can also reduce clothing cost and waste if you learn to make baby clothes out of your existing t...