Custom Process
Customs Process
Thank you for your interest in a custom woven project at Winnowing Wovens! Full custom projects are available on a limited basis -- for current availability, please reach out directly. I can be reached on Facebook, Instagram, or via email (winnowingwovens (@) gmail.com).
This information was written with the intent of being as clear as possible for everyone, including those who have never experienced a handwoven custom before. If you're familiar with customs in general, a good bit of it may be repetitive -- but I'd rather include it to be safe!
Conversations before being added to the customs list
Before adding your project to my customs list, it's best to make sure I am a good fit for your project. Currently, examples of past projects are available in the Winnowing Wovens Facebook group. A smaller selection of examples is available on the website here, though this focuses more on warp dye styles. I also have a page dedicated to common add ons customers have requested in the past - this is also a good starting point of style available here. Do you like what I have woven in the past?
Looking at past examples let's you see the various styles I offer, and how I have done different color ways in the past. I am always open to discussing new designs, colors styles, weaves or fibers, but if you are looking for something and haven't seen me do it before, it's important to let me know before being put on the customs list.
My goal is always to aim for a positive customs experience for everyone involved, and if you have your heart set on something I don't feel confident I can offer, I would much rather have that conversation before you've waited sometimes months for your custom slot!
What length piece are you looking for? I currently have a minimum length sold of 4 meters for all customs. If you are looking for a shorter length, say a ringsling or shawl, you will need to find someone else to commit to a piece as well -- you can do that by posting your inspiration in the Winnowing Wovens chatter group on Facebook or other baby wearing/handwoven groups.
On that note, if you have a budget you need to stick to I'd love if you could tell me that as well -- while I don't need final decisions on weft and other design choices, I can absolutely give you a ballpark price to make sure we can get you a piece you'll love at a cost that's doable for you.
Once on the customs list
Ok, so you're on the customs list -- now what? I don't usually take deposits to secure your spot. I generally will give a 1-2 month window for your customs slot. When I am ready to finalize the details for your warp (this includes warp fibers, weave structure, dye style, & color inspo*), I will reach out to you. This is about 2-3 weeks before your project will go on the loom. You are also welcome to select a name for your warp, but certainly don't have to. I'm happy to give suggestions or crowd source ideas if you're uncertain.
That 1-2 month window is a rough estimate, and you are absolutely welcome to check in once we are close to check an updated timeline. I weave part time and am a mama to three littles, so depending on the needs of my families projects may shift a little bit timewise!
Once everything is finalized for your warp and you approve, I will share it in the Facebook chatter group to see if anyone else would like a sister piece on your warp. Once this happens, this is a commitment to purchase and no warp changes can be made. At the weavers discretion, a deposit may be required at this point.
Quick FAQ
What if I want a dueling tails wrap, or other style that requires a flat dye method? This is an additional $200 for each piece on the warp - warp minimums still apply. More information about this dye style is available on the warp style options page.
What if I want my warp ASAP, or I'm not quite ready when it's my turn? Please let me know and I will do my best to accommodate. This may not always be possible, but I will let you know what I can or can't do on a case by case basis.
Once your warp is in production
From this point forward, the weaving process/customs experience will be the same as a semi-custom process!