This page is here to break down the cost, how it is calculated from start to finish, and the recommended methods of payment. All service pricing is based on a few key factors:
Given this information, the final cost is uncertain until the entire project has been completed. This, as noted, is mainly caused by the fluctuating labor time. I have, however, decided to provide a minimum-to-maximum range of cost estimates (not including shipping) for each category of couture services that I offer. I have also included the averages of each range, as well as broken-down estimates of my labor hours. Refer to the main services page if you need clarification on what falls under each category.
- Cost of Materials
- Anything incorporated into the design; includes fabric, trims, interfacing, hardware, embellishments, etc.
- Only applies to materials newly purchased by me; any materials I already own or are provided by the client will not be charged
- Estimated cost range for all materials purchased by me: $20–$150.
- Labor Costs
- Total time spent on the entire project
- The amount of time varies greatly, depending on the type of garment, details that are added, and the complexity of the construction process.
- Includes sketches, patterning, test garments, fittings & adjustments, and final garment construction.
- Hourly rates
- Custom evening wear and bridal attire: $30/hour
- All other garment designs: $20/hour
- Total time spent on the entire project
- Additional Costs
- 20% of labor & materials total
- Shipping costs, if applicable (varies; no charge for pickups)
Given this information, the final cost is uncertain until the entire project has been completed. This, as noted, is mainly caused by the fluctuating labor time. I have, however, decided to provide a minimum-to-maximum range of cost estimates (not including shipping) for each category of couture services that I offer. I have also included the averages of each range, as well as broken-down estimates of my labor hours. Refer to the main services page if you need clarification on what falls under each category.
Ready-to-Wear Garments
Time Frame: 3-4 Months
- Patterning: 3-6 hrs
- Cutting: 3-6 hrs
- Sewing: 12-40 hrs
- Fittings (each): 1-3 hrs
- Total: 19-55 hrs
Costumes
Time Frame: 4-6 Months
- Patterning: 4-8 hrs
- Cutting: 4-8 hrs
- Sewing: 18-75 hrs
- Fittings (each): 1-4 hrs
- Total: 27-95 hrs
Evening wear & Bridal Attire
Time Frame: 6 Months to 1 Year
- Patterning: 5-10 hrs
- Cutting: 4-10 hrs
- Sewing: 20-76 hrs
- Fittings (each): 1-4 hrs
- Total: 30-100 hrs
The most preferred payment methods are Venmo or PayPal, but cash and checks are also acceptable. As for when the cost is due, you may choose one of three options:
1. Pay the full final cost once the custom design is completely finished. Due to the total not being a fixed number, it is best to take the estimates with a grain of salt, as the amount can vary greatly.
2. Pay a deposit of the minimum estimate listed for the corresponding category, which would be due on the day of the consultation. A secondary quote will then be given for what is left of the final cost, if applicable, once the design is complete.
3. Split the payments into separate costs given at different stages of the garment construction. For example, one payment could be made after the first set of pattern-making, a second payment for creating and fitting test garments, a third, fourth, etc. payment for adjustments, plus any additional test fittings needed, and a final payment due upon the final garment completion.
Regardless of which payment option you choose, please make sure to communicate clearly which one you plan to go through with. Doing so will allow me to budget my expenses more easily, while also ensuring that the payment charges are given fairly for the work that I provide. If you wish to include a tip, you may do so at any time during the construction process; these are not required, but any that are sent anyway will always be greatly appreciated!
1. Pay the full final cost once the custom design is completely finished. Due to the total not being a fixed number, it is best to take the estimates with a grain of salt, as the amount can vary greatly.
2. Pay a deposit of the minimum estimate listed for the corresponding category, which would be due on the day of the consultation. A secondary quote will then be given for what is left of the final cost, if applicable, once the design is complete.
3. Split the payments into separate costs given at different stages of the garment construction. For example, one payment could be made after the first set of pattern-making, a second payment for creating and fitting test garments, a third, fourth, etc. payment for adjustments, plus any additional test fittings needed, and a final payment due upon the final garment completion.
Regardless of which payment option you choose, please make sure to communicate clearly which one you plan to go through with. Doing so will allow me to budget my expenses more easily, while also ensuring that the payment charges are given fairly for the work that I provide. If you wish to include a tip, you may do so at any time during the construction process; these are not required, but any that are sent anyway will always be greatly appreciated!
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Designs by Zo
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Studio Address
(By-Appointment Only): Open Art Space 2147 University Ave W #201 St. Paul, MN 55114 |