A Guide to the Best of Southern California : FASHION : Knit Wiz

What to do if a perusal of last year’s winter wardrobe reveals some wear and tear? Replacements would be nice, sure, but repairs come much cheaper. Boris and Galia Gukaylo, co-owners of the 12-year-old Knitwear Doctor in Costa Mesa, fix holes in sweaters or suits--you name it--by reknitting, not by darning. “French weaving,” or invisible weaving, reconstructs fabric thread by thread. Another method, piece weaving, incorporates a fabric swatch into the garment. “We don’t cut anything,” Boris says. “We do everything by hand.” Prices vary with the size, number and location of tears; the minimum charge is $7.

The Knitwear Doctor also makes alterations in knitwear, with referrals coming from stores such as the nearby Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom, and creates custom designs. “We take measurements and make the garment fit exactly to the person,” Boris says. In a few weeks, the Gukaylos plan to open a second business next door: Buttonham Palace will showcase thousands of buttons and buckles from around the world.

Knitwear Doctor, 1651-D Placentia Ave., Costa Mesa; (714) 650-1025 or (800) 888-3459.