Custom Commissions
Current Update: Commissions 2024 Have Closed.
Commissions for 2025! We are already planning for the New Year. Space is limited, please reach out ASAP to discuss your item(s) and reserve a spot. Lead time varies depending on the item so please contact us sooner rather than later if you have a hard deadline.
Thank you for choosing At the Sign of the Golden Scissors for your 18th century reproductions! We look forward to working with you. For examples of our work, please see our Ready Made section of the shop.
At the Sign of the Golden Scissors specializes in historically accurate 18th century women's clothing and accessories. Our goal is to recreate the most accurate 18th century clothing and accessories for use in museum and living history spaces, using the best available materials on the market today. We offer a limited number of custom commission for clients each year. Commissions are excepted on a first come first serve basis. Please note that we do not offer commissions for Halloween, fantasy based/Outlander type costumes or those loosely based on historical garments. Looking for something from the 1920s, 1930s, or 1940s? We can help with that too. Please visit our Emily's Vintage Visions section of the shop to see what's in stock or email us to discuss having something made using one of our vintage sewing patterns.
Pricing
Prices for each item may vary. Please use this list as a starting guide. Prices in US$. Materials and notions NOT included, prices are labor only. In most cases the customer will supply us with the materials. (We do keep a limited amount of materials and notions on hand for smaller items like caps and bonnets, please message to see what we have in stock.)
Depending on the project, please allow a minimum 4 to 6 weeks for completion plus shipping time. More in-depth commissions, such as gowns and stays, may take longer. A 50% non-refundable deposit is required to hold your place in line. Remaining balance plus shipping costs are due prior to your order being shipped. Arrangements can be made to deliver your order in person as we do attend a number of events in the New England area. Email for additional details on pricing and available supplies.
Pricing estimate, free. Send us your idea and the list of key elements for the item you want made. The more information you can provide the better. Unsure of what you want or need for materials? We can help you decide what's best for your project.
Please email us with your inquiry and include the following information:
- Type of commission i.e. bonnet, cap, etc.
- Deadline (Extra fees apply for rush orders.)
- Inspiration images and/or descriptions
- Type of materials to be used
- Do you want all hand sewing or is some machine sewing acceptable? (Please note some items we will only sew by hand, i.e. caps and bonnets.)
$50 fitting fee where applicable (nonrefundable, goes towards the cost of finished item and typically includes cost of muslin for fittings). Minimum 1 to 3 fittings required depending on the item. (Not all items require a fitting.) Travel costs will apply if I come to you. Mileage costs are based on current IRS rates. Arrangements can be made to meet in person if we are attending the same event.
50% down-payment required before any actual work begins. Nonrefundable once work has started.
All sales of custom order pieces are final.
Payments
We can create a custom listing on our website. Payments may also be accepted through PayPal, by check, or by cash.
Please make checks payable to At the Sign of the Golden Scissors
Paypal charges 2.9% plus $0.30 per transaction sent as payment for goods or services so this will be added to any price to be paid through this service.
atthesignofthegoldenscissors@gmail.com
