The process of making a mink coat is complex and requires a high level of craftsmanship. It involves several stages, including the selection of pelts, design, cutting, sewing, and finishing. Here's a detailed look at each step involved in making a mink coat:
**Selection of Pelts**
- **Sourcing:** Mink pelts are sourced from fur farms or auctions where they are graded based on quality, color, size, and density. Some of the most reputable auction houses include North American Fur Auctions (NAFA) and Saga Furs in Europe. At MULVANNI we source furs from SAGA FURS.
- **Quality and Color:** High-quality mink pelts have a dense underfur and a sleek, glossy appearance. They come in various natural colors, including black, brown, white, and various shades of gray. The pelts must be uniform in color and texture to create a consistent look for the coat.
- **Quantity:** Depending on the size and style of the coat, approximately 35 to 65 mink pelts are needed for a full-length coat. Shorter jackets require fewer pelts.
**Design and Pattern Making**
- **Designing the Coat:** Designers create a pattern for the coat, considering factors like style, length, fit, and details such as collars, cuffs, and closures. Mink coats can range from classic full-length styles to modern cropped jackets.
- **Pattern Development:** Using the design, a pattern is developed to guide the cutting and sewing of the pelts. The pattern ensures that the coat will have the desired shape and fit once completed.
**Preparation of Pelts**
- **Cleaning and Stretching:** Mink pelts are cleaned and then stretched to enhance their natural luster and flexibility. Stretching also allows for the proper alignment of fur fibers, which is essential for a smooth and consistent appearance.
- **Blocking:** Each pelt is blocked, which involves stretching it on a frame to achieve the desired shape and size. This step is crucial for matching the pelts according to the coat's pattern.
**Cutting and Matching**
- **Cutting the Pelts:** Using the coat's pattern as a guide, the pelts are carefully cut into smaller pieces. The cutting process requires precision to ensure that the natural patterns of the fur align seamlessly in the final garment.
- **Matching:** The cut pelts are matched based on their color, texture, and hair direction. This step is vital to create a uniform appearance across the entire coat. Skilled furriers match the pelts so that seams are nearly invisible in the finished product.
**Sewing the Coat**
- **Sewing Pelts Together:** The pelts are sewn together using a special fur-sewing machine. Unlike regular sewing machines, fur-sewing machines have a unique design that prevents the fur from getting caught in the seams.
- **Creating Panels:** The sewn pelts are assembled into larger panels that will form the coat's main sections, such as the back, front, sleeves, and collar. These panels are then sewn together to create the coat's basic structure.
- **Lining:** A high-quality lining is added to the interior of the coat. The lining not only provides a smooth, comfortable surface against the skin but also adds durability and helps maintain the coat's shape.
**Finishing Touches**
- **Trimming and Shaping:** The coat is carefully trimmed and shaped to ensure a precise fit. This may include adjusting the length, shaping the collar, and refining the cuffs and hems.
- **Adding Details:** Details such as buttons, hooks, and closures are added. If the coat has a hood, collar, or belt, these elements are sewn on at this stage.
- **Final Inspection:** The coat undergoes a final inspection to check for any imperfections. The furrier ensures that the fur lies smoothly, the seams are secure, and the coat meets the desired quality standards.
**Glazing and Polishing**
- **Glazing:** The coat is glazed to enhance its natural luster. Glazing involves lightly moistening and polishing the fur to give it a sleek, shiny finish. This step also helps maintain the coat's softness and flexibility.
- **Polishing:** The coat may be polished using specialized tools to achieve a uniform sheen across the entire garment. This process ensures that the fur looks luxurious and feels soft to the touch.
**Final Product**
- **Quality Assurance:** The final coat is inspected one last time to ensure it meets the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship. This includes checking the fit, symmetry, and overall appearance of the coat.
- **Presentation:** The finished mink coat is packaged and presented to the customer. Proper care instructions are often provided to ensure the longevity of the garment.
If you wish to view our MINK FUR COAT COLLECTION click here
