
Fitted Stitches began with a simple belief: every person deserves to feel beautiful, confident, and fully themselves in what they wear. What started as a small alterations space nearly two decades ago has grown into a specialty bridal and formalwear studio shaped by experience, compassion, and a genuine love for the art of sewing.
Founded by Summer Strickland, Fitted Stitches was built from a foundation of sewing, costume work, and a lifelong passion for creativity. While Summer began with only a modest amount of bridal experience, the years that followed became a journey of learning, refining skills, embracing challenges, and developing a deep understanding of gown construction and fit. Through dedication, hands-on practice, and a commitment to quality, Summer grew Fitted Stitches into the trusted studio it is today, where craftsmanship and care always go hand in hand.
Over time, Fitted Stitches became more than an alterations studio. It became a place where stories are honored, where heirlooms are revived, where sleeves, lace, and beadwork become expressions of personality, and where clients are welcomed as individuals with unique visions, not just measurements.
Today, our mission remains rooted in the same values that shaped our beginnings:
expert craftsmanship
a kind and comfortable environment
an inclusive and welcoming space
respect for each person’s vision and story
dedication to quality without shortcuts or rushed work
Whether we are redesigning a cherished heirloom, shaping a modern silhouette, adding custom sleeves, or creating the perfect fit for a special occasion, we approach every garment with intention. Behind every stitch is the belief that what you wear carries meaning and that your experience should be just as beautiful as the finished gown.
Fitted Stitches has grown into a home for both craftsmanship and education. Through apprenticeships, mentorship, and community collaboration, we are committed to preserving the art of sewing for the next generation. This craft is too valuable, too rich in history and skill, to fade away, and we are proud to help keep it alive.
At our studio, you are not just receiving alterations. You are being welcomed into a space built on trust, transparency, artistry, and care. Your gown is more than fabric, and your experience with us should be more than a fitting.
This is who we are.
This is Fitted Stitches.
Timeless craft, tailored to your vision.
Hi, I’m Summer Strickland — owner of Fitted Stitches, seamstress of 20+ years, and a lifelong lover of the craft. My sewing journey began with a simple 4-H apron project, but I was hooked from the start. That passion carried me through sewing my own high school graduation dress and eventually led me to work in the costume department at my university.
What began as a creative outlet became a calling. Today, I run a full-service alterations studio in Southeast Tennessee, specializing in bridal and formalwear tailoring, heirloom gown restoration, and custom fashion projects.
Through Fitted Stitches Academy, I also teach sewing classes and mentor apprentices — helping preserve the art of garment construction for future generations. Whether I’m tailoring a wedding dress, restoring a family heirloom, or guiding a beginner through their first project, I put care, precision, and love into every stitch.
Thanks for stopping by — I’d love to help bring your dream dress (or project!) to life.

The Guild is a co-working space located in a white farmhouse type building on 1st Street. Please enter in the main door next to our sewing studio door(there is a sign on the door) and we will come out and meet you for your appointment. If the door happens to be locked please knock on our door or give us a call!


You’re welcome to park in any of the spaces directly in front of The Guild. Street parking is also available across 1st Street (city-painted lines coming soon!).

In addition, there’s a parking lot directly across the street, and a public lot one block up on 2nd Street for your convenience.

We kindly ask that you do not park in front of the Nationwide Insurance office located to the right of The Guild—we truly value and respect our neighbors.

We were delighted to be featured in the Fall 2023 edition of the CityScope magazine. The art of alterations takes true skill.