Commission Process - What to Expect
Hi! If you’re reading this, you’ve either already commissioned me or you’re considering it. I’d like to give you my heartfelt thanks either way! This journal entry will serve as a step-by-step walkthrough of my process, and hopefully answer some questions you may have. If you’ve got any further questions, you can always find me via email or Instagram.
Step One: Conversation and Mood-boards
My first step is going to be a chat with you about what event you’re going to, what the dress code or theme is, and what you’re looking for in an outfit. I’ll ask a bunch of questions, partially because I’m nosy, but mostly so I can get a sense of what the concept is. Let me know what/where/when the event is, if there’s a theme or a dress code, and if you’ve got any thoughts or inspirations in mind. I’ll also want to know if you have any mobility, sensory, or allergy concerns so I can keep those in mind. For example, you might not want a train because the event will be crowded, or you may hate having cuffs on your sleeves, or if you’re allergic to something like wool. All of that is helpful information to know so that you get exactly what you’re looking for!
From that conversation, I’ll come up with a series of mood-boards. These boards will include other designer’s creations, some general aesthetic photos, and a color palette. While these mood-boards contain reference images of other works, I am not interested in recreating anything from a contemporary designer. This part of the process is all about inspiration. Tell me what you like from the gathered images, what you don’t like, what you’d like to see instead, etc. Below is a gallery of mood-boards I’ve made for past clients. Once we’ve settled on a vision, I’ll proceed with a series of sketches.
Step Two: Sketching Process
During this part of the process, I’ll sit down and do a couple rough drawings to make sure we’re really on the same page. I usually start with between two to four sketches, but I’ll work until we narrow down the exact vision. Some of the ideas will resonate, and some won’t. The sketches below are from a client going to the Afterlife Ball hosted by the Mythmaker’s Society. She wanted a look inspired by oxidizing metal and cemetery statues. We worked closely together to sketch out different options and figure out exactly what she liked and didn’t like. We started with a variety of ideas from which she liked a drape-y silhouette, a statement sleeve, and a deep hood. We also settled on a base color scheme of coppery-orange with overlay of different greens.
Once the sketch is totally finalized, I’ll source all the necessary materials and draft up an itemized budget. You’ll give the final approval and put down a 20% deposit of materials cost. Once I have that, I’ll buy the materials and get to work!
Step Three: Sewing and Fitting
Before I get to sewing, I’ll take your measurements or virtually walk you through taking your own. Typically I need measurements around your chest/bust, waist, and hip, followed by the length of your torso, arms, and legs. I need these measurements in order to draft patterns that will fit you. During the sewing process, expect to hear from me about details such as buttons, zippers, or progress updates. Sometimes the odd set-back will occur if I run out of the right color thread or the proper length zipper. I’ll always let you know about those instances as well. You can also always reach out for updates!
The fitting process varies from client to client. This is where any prior comments about mobility or sensory issues come in to play. We’ll discuss any concerns that either of us may have about the fit of your commission and settle on a schedule from there. There are some instances in which I will insist on at least one fitting - if you’ve commissioned a bridal or evening wear outfit, for example. Some things, such as a cloak or a custom version of an item I sell, won’t need such an intense fitting process. If or when any alterations come up during the fitting process, I’ll complete them before you receive the final garment.
Once the sewing is done and the final tweaks have been made, I’ll send you the final invoice that will cover the remaining materials costs and my labor costs. Once I receive that payment, the commission is yours! I hope you love it! Give me a tag or an update if you post any pictures on social media. I’d love to see! Thanks again for your support!
Sincerely,
Madeline
