THE DESIGN PROCESS
The design process starts when you contact me via the "contact" page with your garment request or inquiry; please describe your idea in as much detail as possible. I will follow up with you via email to discuss garment type, specific needs from the garment, colors, fabric, imagery, level of appliqué work, potential timelines, budget or to schedule a call. If we decide to move forward, I will create a concept drawing of the piece with examples of materials and ask for a deposit.
Once the concept is approved by you and finalized, I will send a measurement guide and begin working on the piece. If you are interested in adding appliqué to an existing garment, please send photos of that garment. If you are interested in patches or bolos, let your mind run wild and I will find a way to make them a reality!
MEASUREMENTS AND FITTING
If it is possible, I will take your measurements in-person. Iowa is not the hottest destination, so I can provide a measurement guide for you to use at home or take to a tailor if in-person is not an option. To ensure a fit that you are comfortable with, I'll also ask that you take the same measurements on a similar garment you already own that makes you feel confident.
TIMELINE
My typical lead time is 3-4 months-- meaning 3-4 months from the date we finalize your design until you receive the garment. Rush orders are possible, but will depend on my availability and will cost more than original quotes. Please don't hesitate to contact me with any special requests and I will do my best to accommodate!
MATERIAL SELECTION
Choosing quality materials from ethical sources that will hold up over time is one of my main priorities. I source almost all my leather from a small US-owned business, utilize vintage/dead-stock/overstock textiles whenever possible, and prioritize carefully selected textiles. I work primarily with fabrics that have a high natural fiber content and an emphasis on comfort, practicality, sustainability and ease of wear.
GARMENT CARE
Everything I make is meant to last a lifetime and more. Because I work primarily in leather appliqué, I recommend having all garments dry cleaned or carefully washed by hand. For light soiling, you can place your garment in a bag in the freezer to kill bacteria and eliminate odor. I will provide specific information based on the textile used for your garment, but most all can be ironed on a low setting or carefully steamed.