There are several factors that go into determining price.
First (and what I consider most important) is the cost of materials. Every basic corset has fashion fabric (costing anywhere from a few dollars a yard to $30, $40, $50 a yard), then there's fusible web, interfacing, lining material, busk, boning, grommets, laces, and trim. Some corsets have other options, such as modesty panels, fancy trim, embellishments, garters, heavy duty busk, 1/2" boning upgrade, etc etc etc.
In addition to the supplies, I have other expenses to consider - rent on my studio space, gas, internet costs, sewing machine repair and maintenance, notions (thread, scissors, fraycheck, glue, bone casing, ScotchGard, lint rollers, fabric marking tools, rotary cutter blades, grommet press, aglet setter, etc etc etc), packaging materials, and so on.
Next, I consider the complexity of the corset, and the size of the individual. A complex corset design is going to take significantly more time and effort than a basic underbust waist cincher. If the client has an exceptionally large bust, odd-shaped body, or is plus-size can also figure into the complexity of the corset design.
And last, but certainly not least, I have to factor in my time. I do not get paid as much for my time as people might think. You're paying for my experience and expertise. I'm a skilled professional who has been sewing for almost 25 years, making corsets for 8. Anyone can buy a pattern, slap something together and call it a corset. Making a corset that not only fits beautifully (and comfortably), as well as making something that will last indefinitely requires years of experience. Corsets take anywhere from 20-40 (sometimes up to 70) hours to make. It's not a fast or easy process.
As far as thinking my prices are too low or too high...well, obviously I don't think they're too high, or else I would lower them. If anything, I'm on the too low side, but we are in a recession and people can't afford luxury items. I haven't raised my prices for more than a year, so I don't think that my prices are unreasonable by any means.
Apr 9, 2010
What is the determining factor on how you price your designs? and do you think that is is too ow or high?
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i think it's so important to share the reasoning behind pricing practices. so many people think it's this arbitrary thing (and perhaps for many it is), but there is so much that goes into determining the value of an item.
ReplyDeletei specialize in high-end European lingerie, so i completely understand what you mean!
xoxo alison
I have to agree, sometime us, the buyers don't realize what all is behind the piece we're looking at!
ReplyDeleteAnd I do think your pieces are MORE than worth every penny, and more than worth saving moneys for!