That second-hand find was almost perfect — the right colour, the right material, the right price — but the waist is a bit loose, or perhaps you’ve spotted a small hole you missed in the shop. Many people tuck the garment away at the back of their wardrobe instead of wearing it, even though the damage is often easy to fix. And unlike a brand-new garment from a high-street chain, you’ll rarely find exactly the same second-hand or vintage find again if you decide not to keep it.
More and more people are choosing second-hand and vintage items over new ones, making repairs and alterations more common than ever. With Qfix, you take a photo of the garment, see the price straight away, and drop it off at a tailor near you — you only pay once you’re satisfied.
Common problems with second-hand and vintage finds
Wrong waist size. A second-hand purchase is rarely tailored specifically to your body. Taking in or letting out the waist on trousers, skirts or dresses is one of the most common alterations.
Moth holes or small holes in knits and woollens. Older woollen garments have often fallen victim to moths at some point. A small hole can usually be mended neatly; see also our guide on [moth holes].
Zips that stick. Vintage garments often have original zips that have become stiff or broken after years of use — these can almost always be replaced.
Missing buttons. Common on older jackets and coats, and one of the cheapest things to fix.
Sleeves and trouser legs that are too long or too short. Second-hand garments are rarely bought to fit your height in the first place.
How much does it cost to alter a second-hand bargain?
Some typical prices to go by:
Taking in the waist of trousers, a skirt or a dress — from 300 kr
Shorten or lengthen trousers or sleeves — from 400 SEK
Repair holes in fabric, such as moth holes — from 270 kr
Replacing or repairing a zip — from 400 kr
Repairing a torn seam — from 250 kr
Replace a button — from 70 kr
You’ll always see the exact price for your particular item before you book, based on a photo you upload.
How it works at Qfix
Take a photo of the garment and describe what needs altering or repairing.
Get a quote straight away, before you book anything.
Drop off the garment at a tailor near you.
Pay only once you’re happy with the result.
Often more than just a standard new-buy item — second-hand and vintage finds are rarely available in exactly the same style again, so a minor alteration is usually better value than carrying on the search. See also our article on [repair or buy new] for how to think about this.
Yes, smaller holes can usually be mended neatly. See our guide on [moth holes] to find out how to spot them in time and how much a repair usually costs.
Yes, that’s one of the most common alterations for second-hand purchases. Prices usually start at 300 kr, and you’ll see the exact price before you book.
Have you found a second-hand or vintage bargain that needs a tailor’s help?
Book via Qfix and get a quote straight away.
