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Frequently asked questions
Details:Handmade clothing, customdressmaking & alterations — without the mysteryWelcome to The Linen Duck! I make clothing a little differently here. You can shopone-of-a-kind pieces, have something madeto measure, we can work together to design your own a bespoke garmentor bring me a favourite garment that needs a little alterationor repair magic. If you're wondering how it all works, you're in theright place. And if your question isn't answered below, justask. I promise there are no silly questions — I've probably been asked strangerones!
Choosing Your Linen Duck Journey
What does The Linen Duck do?
I have four ways I can help you find, make or rescue clothing:
One-of-a-Kind shop— unique handmade pieces that are already made and ready for a new home.
Made-to-measure — clothing from my catalogue made specifically for you, using your measurements and with opportunities to personalise the design.
Design your own — a chance for us to meet and design a bespoke piece made for you, it in volves consultation, quoting and is much more involved as I build a relationship and learn about you.
Alterations and repairs — giving existing garments a better fit, a new lease on life or, where possible, a second chance.
So whether you want something new, something very you, or something you already own made wearable again, I've got you.
Why buy handmade clothing?
Because I think clothing should have a little more personality.
Handmade clothing gives me the chance to pay attention to the details that can get lost in mass production — the fabric, the fit, the pockets, the little quirks and, most importantly, the person who will actually wear it.
I also love the idea of buying fewer things and loving them more.
What makes The Linen Duck different?
I don't want to make clothes that simply fill a gap in your wardrobe.
I want to make clothes you'll reach for again and again.
My focus is on individual style, natural fibres, thoughtful construction, comfortable fit and clothing with a bit of personality.
And because I'm a sole trader, when you deal with The Linen Duck, you're dealing directly with the person making the clothes. No mysterious corporate clothing department hiding behind a curtain!
Do I need to know exactly what I want?
Not at all.
You don't need to arrive with a fully formed fashion manifesto.
You can bring me a picture, a favourite garment, a fabric you adore, an idea you've been carrying around for years, or simply say:
"I want something comfortable that makes me feel fabulous."
We can work from there. And I can help you decide if it if One of a Kind, Made to Measure or Design your own the the way forward for you
One-of-a-Kind shop FAQs
What does "one-of-a-kind" mean?
It means exactly what it sounds like: there's only one.
My one-of-a-kind ready-to-wear garments are individually made pieces, so when you find one that fits and makes your heart do a little happy dance, it really is worth snapping it up.
There isn't a warehouse full of identical versions waiting behind it.
Can I buy a one-of-a-kind piece online?
Yes. Available pieces can be purchased through my online shop, measurements are listed
I also take The Linen Duck out into the real world from time to time, so you may spot me at markets and events around the region.
What if I love a one-of-a-kind piece but it doesn't quite fit?
Don't give up on it just yet!
Depending on the garment and what needs changing, I may be able to alter it for you.
Send me a message before purchasing if you're unsure. I'll have a look and let you know what is realistically possible.
Can I have a one-of-a-kind design made in another fabric?
Possibly. I tend to buy enough fabric for one unique item, but please reach out as there may be a way to source more, or have some left in my stash. It will then become a made-to-measure piece rather than a true one-of-a-kind ready-to-wear garment, along with the lead-time to required create your individual piece
Some designs can be recreated and personalised with different fabrics or design details. The individual product listing will tell you what's possible.
Made-to-Measure FAQs
What's the difference between made-to-measure and buying off the rack?
Quite simply: the garment is made with you in mind.
Rather than choosing a standard size and hoping for the best, I work from your measurements and can make adjustments to suit your body.
Depending on the design, there may also be opportunities to personalise things such as fabric, sleeve length, hem length, pattern placement or other details.
For example, The Tulip Dress can be customised during an initial consultation, with size adjustments based on your measurements, and options to add sleeves, change neckline and hem length.
Can I choose the fabric?
Yes, depending on the project.
You can supply suitable fabric and notions yourself, or I can help you choose them through a fabric consultation, and am happy to purchase for delivery to my address, and include the costs in your order.
Fabric is a rather important part of the process, so I'm always happy to talk through what will work best for the garment you're dreaming about.
Can you make clothes for my body shape?
That's one of the lovely things about made-to-measure clothing.
I work from your measurements rather than asking you to squeeze yourself into a number on a label.
My adult garments generally accommodate a broad range of measurements, and some current designs are available up to Australian women's size 30. Individual garments can have different requirements, so check the specific product listing or ask me.
What measurements do I need?
That depends on what you're having made.
For many garments I'll need your bust, waist and hip measurements. Some designs require additional measurements.
Don't panic if you're thinking, "I haven't measured myself since Year 8."
I'll let you know exactly what I need for your particular garment.
What is the made-to-measure process?
It generally goes something like this:
Choose your Linen Duck design → Consult on Details → Shop for Fabric → Construction → Fitting and/or Delivery.
The exact process depends on the garment, but I'll talk you through what needs to happen.
For current made-to-measure designs such as The Tulip Dress, the price includes the initial consultation, construction, fitting/s if needed and one set of alterations.
How long does a Made to Measure piece take?
For many made-to-measure garments, please allow approximately 4–6 weeks.
That timeframe can vary depending on the consultation, fabric and notions and the particular garment.
Once I receive your order, I aim to respond within 2–3 business days with the next steps.
Handmade clothing does take a little longer than grabbing something off a rack — but that's because an actual human is making it rather than a conveyor belt having a particularly productive Tuesday.
Design Your Own FAQs
What's the difference between Design your Own and Made to Measure at The Linen Duck?
While Made to Measure is the purchase of one of my current designs/patterns which are ready to be adapted to your measurements, the Design Your Own process commences with a consultation which may either result in selecting a Made to Measure piece, or commencing the design and creation of a truly bespoke item of clothing which will be entirely unique to you.
What is the Design Your Own process?
The process for Designing your Own garment is:
Design your Own consultation → Quote by The Linen Duck → Shop for Fabric → Toile Preparation & Fitting/s → Construction based on Final Toile → Fitting/s → Final Fitting and Delivery.
The exact process depends on the garment, but I'll talk you through what needs to happen.
How long does a Design Your Own bespoke garment take?
For many made-to-measure garments, please allow approximately 10-12 weeks.
That timeframe can vary depending on the consultation, fabric and notions and the particular garment.
Once I receive your contact or Consultation booking, I aim to respond within 2–3 business days with the next steps.
Handmade clothing does take a little longer than grabbing something off a rack, and the precise nature of bespoke garment creation means that you will end up with a piece that fits you.
Sizes, Fit & Fittings
I'm between sizes. What should I do?
That's one of the reasons I love working with measurements rather than relying entirely on standard clothing sizes.
Tell me what you're trying to achieve and I'll help work out the best approach for the particular garment.
What if something doesn't fit quite right after it's made?
Don't panic.
For applicable made-to-measure garments, the process includes fitting where needed and one set of alterations.
The goal is to get the finished garment feeling right on you, rather than simply declaring, "Well, that's what size it is!"
Do I need a fitting?
It depends on the garment.
Some projects may need a fitting; others may not.
I'll let you know what makes sense for your particular piece.
Clothing Alterations & Repairs
What sort of clothing alterations do you do?
I offer full service alterations and repairs on most clothing, depending on what the garment needs. Please see the Alterations listing for full list
That might be about improving the fit, a quick hem, changing a length, making an adjustment or repairing something that has seen better days.
Every garment is different, so I'll need to see what I'm working with before I can give you a firm answer and price. But you can book an appointment online.
Can you alter clothing I didn't buy from The Linen Duck?
Absolutely, Yes!
You don't have to have bought your garment from me.
If you've got something sitting in your wardrobe that you love but never wear because something about the fit is just not right, bring it to me and I'll see what I can do.Can you rescue my favourite old garment?
I certainly like to try.
If you've got a beloved garment that's looking a little worse for wear, don't automatically send it to the bin.
Sometimes a repair or alteration can give an old favourite a whole new chapter.
I can't promise every garment can be saved — sometimes a garment has simply lived its best life — but I'm always happy to take a look.
How long do alterations take?
Alteration time depends on the job.
For current alteration services, please allow a minimum of around two weeks from receiving the garment and completing the consultation. More complicated jobs may take longer.
If you need something in a hurry, ask me. Rush work may be possible and may attract an additional fee.
[see links below for the Altertions Terms and Conditions in Legal Notice]
Ordering, Working With Me and the Rest of the Things
Do I need to visit The Linen Duck home studio in person?
Not necessarily.
Depending on the project, we can discuss your requirements and organise consultations remotely or in person.
For local customers, free pickup is currently available in the Victorian 3550, 3551 and 3555 postcode areas.
Where is The Linen Duck based?
The Linen Duck is based in Golden Square, Bendigo, Victoria.
If you're local, I can arrange options for consultations, fittings, collection or drop-off depending on the service, or I arrange online consultation or meet at one of my market appearances.
What if I don't know which service I need?
That's completely fine.
You don't need to diagnose your own clothing problem before contacting me!
Tell me what you'd like to achieve — whether that's "I want a dress like this," "this doesn't fit me anymore," or "I have this gorgeous fabric and absolutely no idea what to do with it" — and I'll help work out the best option.
Can we speak before ordering?
Absolutely.
In fact, for anything custom, I'd rather you asked questions first than ordered something and hoped for the best.
Send me a message and tell me what you're thinking. I'll let you know what I can do, what the process involves and what your next step should be.
How much does a custom garment cost?
It depends on the garment, fabric, design details and amount of work involved.
Individual product listings will show the current price or starting price where applicable.
For example, The Tulip Dress is currently priced from $220 AUD*, including the initial consultation, construction, fitting/s if needed and one set of alterations.
If you're after something more involved, get in touch or book a consultation via Design your Own and I can talk through the options with you.
* With fabric and supples being provided by you, either by purchasing fabric from me, choosing fabric together to be delivered or bringing your own.
Do you ship Australia-wide?
Yes. Current shipping is a flat $10 Australia-wide postage rate, with free shipping on orders over $250. Free local pickup is also available for customers in selected Bendigo postcode areas.
[see links below for the Shipping Policy]
Can I return something if I change my mind?
Please check my Returns & Refund Policy before purchasing.
The rules can be different depending on whether you're buying a ready-to-wear item or commissioning something made specifically for you.
[see links below for the Returns & Refund Policy]
Can I return a made-to-measure garment?
Made-to-measure clothing is a little different from buying something off the rack because it is being made specifically for you.
Before purchasing a custom garment, please read the Returns & Refund Policy carefully.
If there's a problem with your finished garment, please contact me rather than trying to fix it yourself. We'll have a chat about what's happened and work out the appropriate next step.
What if my garment doesn't fit?
Don't panic!
For applicable made-to-measure garments, the process includes a fitting if needed and one set of alterations.
For example, my current made-to-measure garments include the initial consultation, construction, fitting if required and one set of alterations in the listed price.
If something doesn't feel right, please contact me before making any alterations yourself.
What if my item arrives damaged or faulty?
Please contact me as soon as you notice the problem.
Photographs can be very helpful, particularly if the problem isn't something I can see in person.
I'll assess what has happened and work with you on the appropriate solution.
Can I exchange an item?
Please check the current Returns & Refund Policy for the circumstances in which exchanges are available.
If you're unsure, contact me before sending anything back.
How do I return something?
Please contact me before posting anything back.
I'll let you know what I need from you and what happens next.
That way your garment doesn't disappear into the postal wilderness with no warning.
Can I change my mind after ordering a custom garment?
Please contact me as soon as possible.
There is a big difference between changing your mind before I've started work and changing your mind after fabric has been ordered, cut and turned into something resembling a garment.
Custom work involves materials, time and preparation, so please read the relevant product information and Returns & Refund Policy before ordering.
What if I need something changed after delivery?
Please contact me first.
Some adjustments may be covered by the included alteration process, while more complex changes or additional customisation may incur an extra charge.
I'll let you know before doing additional work.
When is my order confirmed?
Your order is confirmed once your purchase has been successfully placed and payment has been received, subject to the applicable Terms of Service.
For custom garments, there are then additional steps before construction begins.
Can I cancel my order?
Please contact me as soon as possible if you need to cancel.
Whether cancellation is possible can depend on the type of order and how far along the work is — particularly for custom or made-to-measure garments.
Can I change my delivery address after ordering?
If you've realised you've accidentally sent your beautiful new garment to your old address, please contact me immediately.
If I haven't dispatched the order yet, I may be able to update it.
Once it's on its way, things get considerably more complicated.
What if I have a question that isn't here?
Then you've discovered the FAQ loophole!
Ask me.
The Linen Duck is a small, one-person business, so when you get in touch you're talking directly to me — the person making, altering and generally fussing over the clothes.
I'd much rather answer your question than have you sit there wondering.
Ready to Find Your Linen Duck design?
Whether you're looking for a one-of-a-kind handmade
garment, something made especially for your measurements, or you'd
like to give a favourite piece of clothing another chance, I'd love to hear
from you.
Have an idea? Have a garment that needs rescuing? Found a
piece you can't stop thinking about?
Get in touch and let's see what we can make happen.
After all, life is too short for clothes that don't fit,
don't feel good or look like everybody else's.
Links:
Altertions Terms and Conditions
Shipping Policy
Returns & Refund Policy