Above are some of the materials I use on the squadron caps. Navy (self-dyed) and red wool for the bodies and the swatches on top are samples of natural-colored wool I test-dyed for squadron numbers, etc.
People wonder why flight jackets and other reproductions vary so much in price. Materials make a big difference but they cannot be why one product can double or triple in price. Cost is still the reason. Adding the proper material, hardware, markings, labels, and finish to an item can up the cost several times over. Perhaps one thing not often considered is that a maker with the attention to such details is likely to value his time and effort as well as put into his project the same level of detail, effort, and overall quality of workmanship. Think about this: Why don't we find high-end makers of, say, reproduction A-2 jackets using inexpensive and commonly available "domestic" materials nor do we find top-notch materials used on a jacket made using cheap Chinese labor? The two just don't match for many reasons and the overall vision of the producer is key! Many don't care about the details and that is just fine but I think about the details, or at least realize them, every time I put an item on. I prefer to not have to apologize, justify, or otherwise rationalize why something isn't the way I prefer.
Think about this concept when pricing your next repro jacket or repro gear purchase. For that matter apply that to the next "anything" you buy.
No comments:
Post a Comment