I’ve watched Rory Duffy’s, The Making of a Coat series many times. I keep coming back to it because I always pick up something new.
Take for example using a paint brush to apply water to a garment. I was using a spray bottle. I really dislike steam irons, your control is limited and I don’t have to worry about erratic steam. So even though I do have a steam iron, I don’t use water in its reservoir since manually applying the water, exactly where needed eliminates that issue.
Because of his videos, I’m checking out the paint brush technique to see how I like that. It seems that would give me even more control.
But what has impressed me the most about his Coat series was the amount of hand sewing he does with the garments that he creates. I love hand sewing and do it often. In couture, you’ll find many creations are manipulated/molded to create shape when there is no shape. The results are beautifully sculpted item.
The amount of time that goes into one of his suits is about 60 hours and the price will be about $5,000. That includes the fabric. While some might be shocked at that price, I’m not. This isn’t off the rack/ready to wear outfit. This is an haute couture suit, customized for one person. The amount of detail, multiple fittings and the level of hand sewing (which produces a much more stable seam in some cases) justifies the price.
Detail is RIGHT! WOW!
I’ve often asked friends and family who knit why they don’t sell their knitted items and they say that no one would be able to afford it (in our small town/area) due to the cost of yarn/supplies and time put into it. I can totally see what they mean after learning more. BUT…that’s is what makes it a super awesome gift, too! I cherish the socks my DH’s Aunt made for me. I think those would have been like $200+ socks had she put a price tag on them!
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@Jennifer, Yes, it’s amazing how some people don’t have a concept to the actual cost of a handcrafted item. Even crazier are those that undersell their work. I see that happen quite often. I will say that there is a market for handcrafted items, but you won’t find it with those that have the mindset that handcrafted should be cheaper mentality.
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