SO MANY great stories happen behind the scenes in our factory with custom, made-to-order and alterations projects, and we’re eager to share some of them here — starting with an inside job, as it were. This is the tale of how the childhood patchwork-quilt bedspread of our co-founder Eric De Feo got transformed into a custom Chore Jacket and Jogger Pants.
When asked how he felt about this project, co-founder and factory director Sergio Guadarrama said he thought it was absolutely magical, the chance to keep someone’s childhood memories alive in this way. And was there any question or hesitation about what he would make when Eric walked in with his bedspread? None. “I knew immediately, Chore Jacket and Joggers,” he said, warm winter clothes fashioned from the quilt. It was a bonus that there was exactly enough fabric left to make an Envelope Clutch as well.
We asked Eric a few questions about how this all came to be—
First, tell us about this fabric — it was your childhood bedspread? Had it been in your possession ever since?
This I believe — my mother believes — was a Ralph Lauren bedspread that I had growing up. It recently came back into my possession after my mom was cleaning out my childhood room. Since I didn’t think it went well with my current household decor, I stuck it in my linen closet for a bit as a backup blanket, but I ultimately never really used it. It’s very nice quality, and I didn’t exactly want to give it away.
What gave you the idea to have it remade into clothes, and how did you settle on these pieces specifically?
While doing some winter cleaning, I honestly gave it to Sergio to let him decide what to turn it into. I didn’t think much of it, but thought it could turn into something for someone. Because it was a fairly bulky and heavy quilt, I didn’t have much of a vision for it, and he helped bring it to life in our two core styles and a bag — I was completely surprised!
What did the atelier crew think when you brought this to them? And what were the challenges in making this work?
The challenge with quilts is cleaning them, so the crew did have to spot clean and air dry it for 2 weeks before putting it on the cutting table.
How do you feel about how the pieces turned out? Are you happy you made this choice on the bedspread’s behalf?
At first I was like, those clothes look ridiculous, but I’m sure someone will love them in the shop. But then I put them on, and fell in love with them. Not only are they super comfy and warm — they are frankly the warmest pants I’ve ever worn — there is something so special and nostalgic about wearing something that brings you joy from your childhood. I can honestly say they will be my most cherished pieces in my closet for years to come, and I’m so happy how this all turned out. Now I wish I had more fabric in my storage closet to do this!
Thanks, Eric!
Click through to see our selection of readymade Chore Jackets and Jogger Pants, or Made to Order options. And if you’ve got a fully custom project in mind, or need help coming up with an idea for something, please don’t hesitate to get in touch!
