"How to Alter a Bridal Gown" is full of innovative tips and techniques specifically designed to make altering bridal gowns more efficient and effective. Following are a few examples taken from the book:

• Anchor plant hooks to the ceiling with molly bolts, then hang strong metal chains from the hooks. Place these hanging - chains to the left of your sewing machine, to the left of the ironing board and anywhere you need something to hold the gown. This provides a perfect way to hang the gown while you are working on the various areas such as the hemline, the neckline or the sleeves. You can adjust the height you want to work at by simplky hanging the gown at different locations on the chain. The chain will support the weight of the gown making it easier to complete the alteration.

• Use a plastic tagging gun to form the bustle loops on the train, this will make the bustle stronger and provide a more transparent loop. It is also quicker to make than a thread chain. Then attach numbered garment size tags to each bustle loop to mark the loops so they correspond with the hooks at the waistline. This makes it easier and less confusing for the bride to bustle the gown at the reception.

• If your customer has a problem with a gapping neckline, try tacking a 5" piece of covering boning to the center of the neckline, then when the bride / customer is wearing the gown they slip the free end of the boning down behind their bra, this will hold the neckline against the chest.