Staff Writer
FORT FAIRFIELD – Sewing just got a lot easier for anyone needing hem work done or perhaps an alteration to get that outfit to fit just right, with the opening of Pat’s Sewing Room, located in Village Square, at 232 Main St., Suite 1, Fort Fairfield.
Owner Pat Troicke brings several years of experience to the business, dating back to her youth.
“I was one of 13 children. I got started sewing when my mother would hand us scraps of cloth and my sisters and I would hem the edges to create diapers for the babies. From there, I helped make clothes for family,” said Troicke. “I also participated in 4-H, making aprons, skirts.”
Once she got married, Troicke found her love of sewing continued, as she created clothing for her husband and children.
“My husband was in the service – Air Force. We traveled a lot. There were always folks on whatever base we were at who needed sewing done – putting on stripes, name tags. I did it more as a hobby up until recently,” she said.
A hobby once done at home gradually evolved into a business.
“I’d been doing it out of my house. When this opened up, I decided to move down here and try my hand at running my own shop,” said Troicke.
Currently, Troicke handles hem work and alterations. Eventually, she’d like to expand her business to offer sewing classes.
“I do hemming, alterations, zipper replacements. If I could figure out how to repair zippers instead of replacing them, I’d be rich,” laughed Troicke. “I do a variety of sewing, whether it’s for uniforms – hemming, alterations – to business attire. But I hope to eventually offer classes.”
Interested individuals have already approached Troicke about attending classes.
“I already have the names of several people who are interested in quilting or regular sewing,” said Troicke.
Troicke said so far business has been good.
“Business is good. There’s definitely a need for seamstresses. I accept work from whoever wants to bring items to me,” she said.
“This is an exciting time for Fort Fairfield. We are experiencing a surge in business. There is definitely a positive vibe in the air,” said Janet Kelle, director of the Fort Fairfield Chamber of Commerce. “Pat’s is just one of several businesses we’ve welcomed recently to the Village Square. It’s a nice fit for our community.”
Hours of operation are Thursday and Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon. For information, contact 476-5093.
“I’m open to the public three days a week and by appointment, if someone needs work done and can’t make it in during regular hours,” said Troicke. “I love it. I love the location. I’m looking forward to serving the community of Fort Fairfield and the surrounding area. I get to do something I love to do – sewing – while helping others look their best.”
Staff photo/Kathy McCarty
PAT’S SEWING ROOM officially opened for business Thursday, Sept. 18, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new business located in Village Square, Main St., Fort Fairfield. Pictured at the event, from left: Town Councilor Sue Levasseur; Wendy Wasson; Janet McGillan, Fort Fairfield Chamber of Commerce Board member; Charlie Cormier, FFCC Board member; Pat Troicke, owner; Carolyn Dorsey, FFCC Board member; Janet Kelle, FFCC director; Craig Cormier; and Town Councilor John Herold.
