1. Initial Consultation

We begin with a relaxed conversation, usually lasting 60–90 minutes.

This consultation is free.

We talk about what you want your garment to do for you: how it should feel, where you imagine wearing it, what you are drawn to, and what kind of role it might play in your life.

At this stage you are welcome to bring inspiration images, mood boards, Pinterest boards, garments you love, or simply a few ideas you would like to explore.

This is where we begin imagining the garment together.

Occasionally, I offer a second free consultation, depending on the complexity of the concept and the clarity in the mind of the client.
Custom work is a significant investment, and it is important that both the client and myself are clear about the client’s ideas and the feasibility of making them real.

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2. Design Consultation

If we decide to move forward, the next step is a design consultation.

This meeting is usually about two hours. At this point, you are required to provide your inspiration, i.e. the images, mood boards, Pinterest boards, garments you love, or garments mentioned above. During this session, I sketch the garment, discuss materials and components, and clarify the design direction.

The design consultation is $300, paid at the time of booking. If you choose to order your custom garment, that amount is applied toward the final cost.

By the end of this meeting, we will have a much clearer picture of the garment: its silhouette, materials, details, and estimated cost.

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3. Quote, Deposit & Materials

Once the design, materials, and quote are approved, a 50% deposit is required before materials are ordered and work begins.

At this stage, I take exact measurements, make the necessary technical notes, and begin developing the custom pattern.

This is also when fittings are scheduled.

Because materials are ordered and the design work begins immediately, the deposit becomes non-refundable after the initial cancellation window described in the client contract.

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4. Pattern, Toile & Fittings

A custom garment is refined through fittings.

The first version is created in a mock-up fabric, called a toile. This allows us to perfect the silhouette and fit before the final materials are cut.

Most garments require three fittings, and occasionally four, depending on the complexity of the design.

During these fittings, we refine:

• fit
• proportion
• length
• sleeve shape
• collar and closure details
• hardware placement
• functional design elements
• overall feel and movement

The final materials are not cut until the design is resolved.

This is one of the major advantages of custom work: we do not guess. We refine.

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5. Final Garment

Once the fit and design are confirmed, the garment is constructed in the final materials.

The second and final payment is due as the garment nears completion, usually at the second fitting, or by the third fitting if a third fitting is needed.

Then comes the best part:

You pick up your garment.

And begin living in it.

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Timeline

Most custom garments take approximately one and a half to two months once the design is finalized and work begins.

Highly complex garments may take longer.

Because fittings are an essential part of the process, clients should be prepared to schedule fittings within the project timeline. Significant delays or major design changes may require additional fees.

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Investment

Custom outerwear is a significant investment of time, materials, and skilled labor.

Each garment typically involves 130–150 hours of design, patterning, fitting, construction, and finishing, depending on complexity.

Prices start at $ 2,200.00 using wool or hemp.
The final cost depends on the garment type, materials, hardware, detailing, and level of technical complexity.
Using leather will cost more. Designing technical apparel that must fit snugly while accommodating armor, such as for motorcycle riding, requires the greatest extent of my patternmaking and fitting expertise, therefore requiring the most investment.

A quote is provided after the design consultation, before materials are ordered and construction begins.

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Preparing for Your Consultation

Before your initial consultation, it helps to gather:

• images of garments you are drawn to
• notes about where and how you want to wear the piece
• thoughts about materials, colors, or textures you love
• examples of clothing that fits you well
• examples of clothing that frustrates you
• any practical needs the garment must serve

You do not need to arrive with everything figured out.

The collaboration is a critical part of the process.

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Is Custom Outerwear Right for You?

Custom work may be right for you if you want:

• a garment designed around your body and life
• something more personal than standard sizing allows
• a piece made from high-quality natural materials
• outerwear with durability and presence
• a garment intended to be worn for years, not seasons
• a collaborative design experience
• clothing that feels like yours in a deeper way

This process is not about chasing trends.

It is about creating a garment you can return to again and again.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a custom garment take?

Most garments take approximately one and a half to two months once the design is finalized and work begins. More complex garments may take longer.

How many fittings are required?

Most garments require three fittings, sometimes four depending on the complexity of the design.

What is a toile?

A toile is a mock-up version of the garment made in test fabric. It allows us to refine the fit, silhouette, and design before cutting the final materials.

What does the design consultation cost?

The design consultation is $300. If you order your garment, that amount is applied toward the final cost.

When is payment due?

A 50% deposit is required before materials are ordered and work begins. The remaining 50% is due as the garment nears completion.

Can I change the design during the process?

Small adjustments are part of the fitting process. Major changes to the design, structure, or fit after work has begun may require additional fees.

Why is the deposit non-refundable?

Once materials are ordered and pattern development begins, significant time and resources have already been committed to your garment.

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