Tailors increase stitching rates well before Eid

As the last Ashra of Ramazan begins, tailors in Rawalpindi city and cantonment areas have increased stitching rates and stopped accepting new orders, displaying "No Booking" notices at their shops.

This year stitching charges have increased by Rs200 to Rs300 compared to last year.

As Eidul Fitr approaches, the rush of clothes at tailoring shops has increased. Citizens had started approaching tailors from the beginning of Ramazan and as the month progresses everyone wants their clothes stitched quickly and properly.

Last year, stitching charges for a men's suit ranged between Rs1,000 and Rs1,200. This year tailors are charging between Rs1,500 and Rs2,000 for a men's suit.

In major markets, stitching a men's suit costs between Rs2,500 and Rs4,000, while embroidered suits may cost more than Rs5,000.

Tailors Fayaz Ali and Riaz said the cost of thread reels, buckram, buttons and other materials has increased significantly, making it difficult to meet expenses.

They added that electricity bills, scissors, sewing machines, buttonhole work and other costs also require money, while every shop has hired two or three helpers because of the Eid rush and stitching work is now continuing around the clock.

Due to the high stitching charges in markets, women who stitch clothes at home in neighbourhoods are earning more business. These home-based tailors are charging Rs300 to Rs400, less than market rates.

Poor and late customers have started turning to these home-based women tailors.

Meanwhile, due to the increase in both cloth and stitching costs, many citizens have started buying ready-made men's suits.