What questions to ask a MTM shirt maker about the fabric?

[ESPNHD]

Let's say that you have no eye for quality, so all you can do is ask questions to your MTM shirt maker about the quality of the fabric.

My MTM shirt maker has fabric at $125, $165 and $195. I'm sure there are prices above that, I haven't spent more than $195 a shirt.

There are many books of fabric in each price range, that are all vastly different in terms of feel, look, etc. Is there any general advice of what to look for in these price ranges? I know 2 ply better than 1 ply, but anything else? What type of thread count should I expect for a $165 or $195 shirt? Does the country of origin matter?

Thanks.

 

[dragon8]

I think you should go in with at least the color and pattern of the shirt in mind and ask the tailor for those particular colors in the fabrics that he has. Look at all the swatches and feel them to see if you like them.

In my experience, Thomas Mason and Alumo are good quality fabrics and should be in your range.

 

[Shirtmaven]

thomas mason and alumo will be over $200 unless the shirts are being made in HK/China

i always tell customers to use their eyes and fingers.
do the colors look sharp?
do you like the feel of the fabric.

China is turning out 60/1 compact fabrics that are very wearable.
I have some 70/1 compact from India that is very nice.

of course the finishing of the fabric is enhanced with resins and or enzymes.

really well made fabrics where short cuts are not taken will be over $200.
even Thomas mason is delivering fabric that is not really up old standards

 

[Odd I/O]

Originally Posted by Shirtmaven

really well made fabrics where short cuts are not taken will be over $200.
even Thomas mason is delivering fabric that is not really up old standards

Is this across all their fabric lines or only the cheaper ones? I'm just curious as I usually go for the Thomas Mason Silver line for shirts.