Every jiu jitsu practitioner should have a gi in order to bring their skills to the next level. But did you ever wonder how they were made? Conan O'Brien did exactly how it should be in this video:
Kidding aside, I believe Gi Reviews already gave people the idea on how gis are made in a factory. On our part here is a gist on how Manila Kimonos makes BJJ gis!
Concept and Drawing Board
(Credit for the photo goes to: http://johnsmalls.com/)
Concept may sometimes end up getting scrapped in exchange of more feasible ideas. And since it is exceptionally difficult to picture gis in action while in the drawing board, it is a back and forth trial and error process. This is also the stage where the materials for the jacket and the pants will be decided.
After months of brainstorming, the next thing to worry of is the construction process. Here is an overview on how we do it.
Collecting The Materials
The first thing we do is to collect the materials necessary from the fabric to the threads. Gis are made of different types of fabrics. Each fabric will have its distinct qualities that would turn out to be an asset (or a liability) on the mats. This is why it is important to select the right materials from the get go. Among the most common fabrics in the market today are the following:
· Single weave
· Double weave
· Pearl weave
· Rip Stop
· Canvas
To differentiate one from the other, you can check this blog to know more about each fabric's specific characteristics.
Patterns
This is where patches are made and inspected. This is also the place where the shape of the gi is going to be decided.
Cutting
The next thing is to cut the fabric according to the pattern. Different brands are known for different fits. There are those brands that will carry a slimmer cut and there will be those that may even cater to more particular body types.
Stitching and Embroidery
Here's where the bling comes together. This is where intricate embroideries, tapings and other patches are attached to your gi.
Press and Packing
After the item has been inspected and free from any defect, it is now time for packing.
Credit goes to http://johnsmalls.com/ for the first picture. Don't forget to join our contest. Here is a link to the photo for steps on how to win a shirt or a Tropic Lightweight Gi!
Credit goes to http://johnsmalls.com/ for the first picture. Don't forget to join our contest. Here is a link to the photo for steps on how to win a shirt or a Tropic Lightweight Gi!
