The thoughts, sewing projects, and fabric oglings of a dedicated sewist.

Testimonials

See below for reviews from my clients and students.  Please also click through to see my reviews on Yelp. 


Custom/Bespoke Clothing


"I had the great fortune of working with Lisa on the design and creation of my wedding dress.  I came to her with a few ideas and pictures and she created a custom, couture gown that went beyond my dreams.  Lisa gave suggestions for the dress and made every effort to fulfill my requests, which she was more than able to!  From the design to picking out fabric to deciding what closures would look and work best, Lisa involved me in almost every aspect.  Her attention to detail and explanation of the process was not only extremely helpful, but made the experience so special and unforgettable.  Most people have their "This is the one!" moment in a store in front of big mirrors with family and friends onlooking; mine was at the first fitting, in Lisa's bedroom, in a muslin mock-up of the dress!  I will be forever grateful for this once in a lifetime opportunity."
-Kristen S, Oak Park

"I brought Lisa a coat I hadn't worn in years because the lining was ripped. Not only did she pick out a fantastic new, warmer lining, but she did a beautiful job sewing it in. The coat fits perfectly, and I am thrilled with how much warmer it is. Had I known, I would have replaced the lining a long time ago! I was exactly 1 degree in Chicago today, and I walked a mile outside comfortably in this coat, which I would not have been able to do a couple years ago. It's my new favorite cold weather garment. I will definitely keep her in mind for future alterations, sewing projects, etc. She is very talented and professional!"
-Maura W, Oak Park

"Lisa has designed and made two skirts for me.  I hope there will be plenty more in the future.  She is passionate about her work and it shows.  She is easy to work with, respectful of your time and very reasonably priced.  My skirts are in constant rotation and are holding up very well.  People compliment me often on the unusually cool fabrics she used.  It is wonderful to have things custom fit, and  completely individualized for the price of off the rack.  Will definitely be back for others throughout the years."
-Stephanie M, Berwyn


"Love love love my skirts! The entire process from first fitting to the final product was seamless (ha!). Lisa's creative touches made the skirt so lovely and unique. And I get so many compliments!" 
-Jen Mistak, Oak Park


“After asking for recommendations on Mom Mail for someone who could make me a few A-Line skirts, I found Lisa Polderman.  Lisa is a stay-at-home mom in Berwyn and has an incredible gift for sewing and an impeccable eye for fashion/fabric. If you’re looking for fabulous, one-of-a-kind skirts that are designed to fit you perfectly, you must call Lisa. Not only will she give you one-on-one consultation, but she can also help you pick-out fabrics and will show you patterns that will work best for your figure. Lisa is opening an in-home business (PoldaPop Designs) and will be launching her Etsy site soon. If you are looking for great fashion and amazing handbags, contact Lisa.” 
-Catlin, Oak Park


“I wanted to express my pleasure at finding Berwyn-based Poldapop Designs. I hate clothes shopping, so when I saw a post awhile back about a local mom who makes skirts to your measurements, I was intrigued.  I had intended to just have one work skirt made, but Lisa had so many great ideas and fabrics that I couldn’t decide on just one.  She took careful measurements—even adjusting them when my size adjusted—and the skirts are beautifully finished.  Lisa was very easy to work with and made clothes for me that are flattering and I am comfortable wearing.  Whew!”

-Afton, Oak Park

“I would like to recommend Berwyn mom Lisa Polderman of Poldapop designs for all of your skirt related needs!  Lisa will come to your house and help you design a custom made skirt, dress, bag or possibly something else you have in mind.  She is fun to work with and has great ideas for fabric and style choices.  I have two skirts made by Lisa I and am in the process of getting my third.  I love them and always receive comments when I wear them.  She will continue to work with you until the skirt or dress fits perfectly and you
-Eileen, Oak Park


"Finally, a skirt that fits!  With Lisa's expert help and excellent taste, I was able to choose a pattern and fabric that I loved -- and unlike an off-the-rack item, the final product fits and flatters perfectly. I was so impressed with the care and craftsmanship that went into the summer skirt Lisa made for me that I asked her to create another one for winter. I look forward to having a collection of her skirts someday!"

- Gloria M., Berwyn


"Lisa is an extremely competent seamstress and makes beautiful and lovely clothes.  She really understands sewing patterns and how to adjust them to fit any figure.  If you are tired of mass-produced clothing and want a one-of-a-kind skirt, dress, top or purse, I highly recommend her.  Her prices are fair and affordable and you will feel so special in your well-fitted, unique handmade clothing!"
- Spencer B., Oak Park


I LOVE MY NEW BAG!!!!!  SQUEEEEEEAL!!!!!!!!
                                                                                                           - Jill W., Berwyn


Sewing Instructor

"I am writing to review Lisa's private sewing lessons.  Lisa helped me make a custom dress in the course of just four sewing lessons.  It was an ideal arrangement for me since I wanted to learn to make it myself, but I needed a lot of help in planning and execution.  Lisa was not daunted by any of my requests.  She taught me to make a pattern from an existing dress and then adapt it using a commercial pattern.  I learned so much in the course of this one project.  She was very patient, had a ton of good ideas, and made it so much fun!  I would not hesitate to use any of her other services, including group classes and custom clothing."
-Jennifer G, Oak Park

"Lisa is a fantastic sewing teacher.  Very patient and thorough.  In addition, she is extremely creative and great at what she does (detail oriented...takes time to make it look perfect).  She was able to help me transform an old maternity dress into a knock-out, form fitting cocktail dress.  Fits like a glove and is sure to be one of my favorites.  I will be using Lisa for all alterations moving forward (she will either explain how to do them myself; or, if I don't have time, I will trust her completely to do an A+ job).  She does a great job fitting perfectly! Will never go to anyone else for any alteration. Looking forward to taking more classes from her as the year goes on.  I know I can learn a lot from this wonderful seamstress!"
-Annette D, Oak Park

"My daughter (6) took a Christmas ornament sewing class yesterday afternoon and loved it. She had zero sewing experience before the class, but felt very comfortable. She loves the ornament she made and proudly showed it to us right when she woke up this morning. Highly recommend."
-Anne P, Oak Park 

"I recently finished my first sewing class with Lisa as my instructor. She was extremely patient and helpful in teaching me the basics of machine sewing. Lisa helped me construct two bags, one a small zippered clutch and the other a bag that will be perfect for my weekly trips to the local Farmer's Market. In addition, I learned how to hem a pair of shorts and repair holes in fabric. Functional and fun! I was so impressed with Lisa's knowledge and teaching style that I am considering buying my own machine and taking more lessons privately from Lisa. It was an A+ experience."
-Ann, River Forest