Sanity check on reweaving quote

[Indole]

I recently made an impulsive online purchase and ended up with a pair of solid grey wool trousers with a cluster of 1-2mm holes in the upper thigh. I'm in Chicago and after seeing the praise on here for Without a Trace I took the pants there for a quote (despite a very negative experience with a bad satin lining repair in 2020). I was told that the holes were too big for the French method and would require a conspicuous patch transplanted from the interior lining, and that it would likely run me up $200-300 or more. I understand that reweaving is a difficult prospect in most cases but I wanted to get a sanity check on the estimate and explanation. Thanks in advance.

 

[paxonus]

Buy some iron-on interfacing and do it yourself. Cost less than $5.

 

[oucheebooboo]

I empathize. Decades ago, I had my 1st reweaving experience. I was rendered speechless at the cost, and the "fix" was NOT "invisible". (Fortunately, the retailer accepted all fault, covered all expense, and allowed a return of the garment.)

It is not uncommon that the expense approximates or even supersedes the garment's value. Reweavers often suggest the client consider a replacement purchase unless the item holds sentimental value. Costs can indeed be prohibitive and vary tremendously based on the artist skill, client's desired outcome, fabric, pattern, hole-size & hole distribution, etc. (Your fabric appears to have several holes in close proximity. I've come to understand that sort of damage may lead to an "overweave" vs a "french weave".)

Reweaving is a lost art, with the masters increasingly "aging out" of the profession. As @paxonus has suggested, a diy repair is a viable option (for those who possess a modicum of needle & thread skill...and more confidence than I possess, although I've been tempted).

I suggest you get a few quotes. I've linked below to folks I've considered in my own searches. I can't personally attest to their work, but they are experienced and well-regarded on the Interwebs. Try to see if they'll accept a well-lit pic in lieu of mailing in the garment for a quote.

• Tammy Kampschroeder (another reference here), at Amazing Garment Repair in Kansas. Has a rep for truly loving the art.
• Toni Columbo in Charlestown. Reweaver to "the stars". (I imagine you'll pay more in the Charlestown metro or Chicago areas.)

Keep us abreast of your progress. Good luck.

 

[Indole]

Buy some iron-on interfacing and do it yourself. Cost less than $5.

Wasn't aware of this option, thanks for the tip.

 

[Indole]

I empathize. Decades ago, I had my 1st reweaving experience. I was rendered speechless at the cost, and the "fix" was NOT "invisible". (Fortunately, the retailer accepted all fault, covered all expense, and allowed a return of the garment.)

It is not uncommon that the expense approximates or even supersedes the garment's value. Reweavers often suggest the client consider a replacement purchase unless the item holds sentimental value. Costs can indeed be prohibitive and vary tremendously based on the artist skill, client's desired outcome, fabric, pattern, hole-size & hole distribution, etc. (Your fabric appears to have several holes in close proximity. I've come to understand that sort of damage may lead to an "overweave" vs a "french weave".)

Reweaving is a lost art, with the masters increasingly "aging out" of the profession. As @paxonus has suggested, a diy repair is a viable option (for those who possess a modicum of needle & thread skill...and more confidence than I possess, although I've been tempted).

I suggest you get a few quotes. I've linked below to folks I've considered in my own searches. I can't personally attest to their work, but they are experienced and well-regarded on the Interwebs. Try to see if they'll accept a well-lit pic in lieu of mailing in the garment for a quote.

• Tammy Kampschroeder (another reference here), at Amazing Garment Repair in Kansas. Has a rep for truly loving the art.
• Toni Columbo in Charlestown. Reweaver to "the stars". (I imagine you'll pay more in the Charlestown metro or Chicago areas.)

Keep us abreast of your progress. Good luck.

I appreciate the referrals and the detailed explanation. In this case I'll likely roll the dice on the DIY option but it's good to get a better idea of the state of the art. Thanks! I'll be sure to post any updates.

 

[oucheebooboo]

Glad I could help. There are several diy, "how to's" online for guidance. Also, your trousers appear to be a woolen flannel. Be mentally prepared for the fact that the fabric, while feeling wonderful, is inherently prone to "failure," particularly at any stress area.