Photos of the child’s bomber jacket: Fall 2016

Here are photos of the final prototype bomber jacket that we’re making in Fall 2016 Apparel Manufacturing Boot Camp. Again, volunteers (2 slots still available) congregate over 4 days in my Albuquerque sewing factory to make winter coats that are donated to needy children in our community. I’m quite pleased with how it came out. Clicking on any image will take you to the full size photo, and discussion plus links to videos follow below them.

32108v1 Side

32108v1 back 32108v1 3 quarter

This bomber jacket has raglan sleeves with a darted shoulder for superior fit. This particular jacket is a size 7, designed specific to our “customer”. Our customer has a rounder and slightly longer torso in relation to over all height. I suppose one could say it is designed for a child who gets a lot of macro nutrients. To be less diplomatic about it, the jackets will fit a heavier than average child.

The angled trim along the sleeves is reflective. The trim itself is exceedingly difficult to source and involves much gnashing of teeth and copious begging. The same could be said for the ribbing but that’s another story. Returning to the trim, we changed the placement of it as compared to the coat we made last Fall because this will be more visible and eye catching. The trim of 2015 was along the yokes which ended up being covered by a backpack or its straps. As the wearer is often swinging their arms as they walk, putting it on the sleeve is an excellent choice. I don’t remember which designer had that idea but it’s gold, in my opinion.

Speaking of our designers, the two who finished our final prototype, allowed me to video them being somewhat silly. The first one is their testimonial for boot camp. You can meet these characters and work with them if you register today -we still have 2 openings. Enjoy.

 

 

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Contributing to Feral Cat Colony Support: The TNR Project

Sue_Jen_TNRIn keeping with our mission of immersive hands on sewing factory training, and supporting social initiatives in New Mexico, we’ve taken on the production of trap covers used in the capture of feral cats. For those who don’t know, TNR refers to Trap, Neuter & Release. By trapping and neutering feral cats, colonies become stable and neighborhoods are safer (in many places, cats are also vaccinated against rabies). The traps require a cover to create a cave-like environment -because, as we know, all cats love cardboard boxes– that will attract the animal but also keep them calm once the trap is sprung. Keeping a feral cat calm is an imperative. When I trapped the feral cats (7!) at the factory last January, several of them injured themselves quite badly because the covers were loose towels thrown over them. That experience is how I learned of the great need for these covers. Read More

Boot Camp Orientation & Updates

Tommy_fixing_welt_pocket_machine_clothing_manufacturing_in_America

Tommy is fine tuning the welt pocket machine I bought to sew the coat pockets. I’ve known Tommy for 25 years; we worked in the same factory way back when.

Well, we’re eagerly awaiting the start of apparel manufacturing boot camp and working like fools to get it all done. We’re looking forward to meeting all of you and getting some work done for a great cause.

Here are a few updates and reminders:
1. Schedule
2. Factory Feeding
3. Lunch sponsors
4. Coat recipient selection
5. Supply list -please note that the supply list has changed slightly.
6. Mandatory dress code
7. Safety and scents policy Read More