Free shipping on orders $100 and up!
The Magic of The Mockup
NEWSLETTER
9/10/20262 min read
Almost every client I’ve had has had this fear. What if it doesn’t fit. I have that fear when I make something for myself! It’s completely understandable - we live in a world where off the rack clothing constantly doesn’t fit. If you’re investing in a custom piece it’s often because you want a piece that actually fits you. It’s not a cheap investment. The fear is so valid.
And this is why we should all love the mockup.
If you’re not familiar with this idea, the mockup is essentially a practice round (or two or three or four) for the garment. It is cut out of cheap material - typically cotton muslin. The basic pieces of the pattern are sewn, leaving out the details of the garment like pockets, linings, etc.
The purpose of this garment is to make sure it fits. Almost always it doesn’t. Not perfectly. Unless you’re making an A-line skirt that only fits at the waist, it is impossible to make a garment the fits perfectly on the first try, every time. Our bodies are all too unique and complex.
The mockup means:
You get to see the piece in 3D before moving forward with the final.
We can make adjustments with the garment on the body, essentially creating a better fitting pattern for us to work from.
We get to make minor edits to the design now that you can see what it’s like in person.
We can mark detail elements, like patch pockets, while the piece is on the body.
A wonderful part of this process is that it’s not just me the designer making these decisions. The client gets to weigh in based on how they feel about it. It’s the perfect medium for a collaborative approach.
While the mockup might seem a solely practical part of the process, it actually changes the emotional experience too. If you’re the client, you’re not anxiously awaiting months for your garment to arrive, the whole time wondering if it will fit. You already know it will. You can enjoy the excitement of the process without the anxiety.
When I bring up the idea of mockups with new clients I’m surprised by how many people don’t realize they are part of the process. I’m wondering if it’s a new idea for you too. Would it change how you feel about getting a custom piece?
