Designing a Tallit

One of my greatest joys in life is working with bar/bat mitzvah students or adults in designing one-of-a-kind talliot. We start by deciding if the prayer shawl will be of traditional or contemporary design. Then we explore what their interests are to determine if we can translate their passion into an image using colors or color combinations. Do you like cool or hot colors? Complex color combinations or just one or two colors? We talk about weave structures; for example: do you want pure or mid-tones, be fanciful, elegant, fun? We talk about fiber—I often use silk in the warp and Zypher (50% silk and 50% merino wool) in the weft—but I can use wool or suprima cotton if so desired. Finally, we select the type of fringe (loose or twisted), decide if there will be patches for the tzitzit, bag for the tallit, and if a kippah is needed; if so, what type.

Developing a commission with Sylvan Studio is easy!

1. Decide on the item(s) you wish to order and go through the decision process for each one.
2. Fill out the contact form included here under the “Contact” tab and email it to me at Sylvan Studio.
3. When I receive the contact form, I will reply by phone or email (whichever you prefer) and we will discuss the commission. My goal at this point is to gain a complete understanding of your vision and preferences. When I am certain I have accomplished this goal, I will send you a proposal containing a sketch, details, timeline and cost. You either accept or not.
4.  If you accept, you send me 50% of the price for the fiber, and I will commence work on the order. Once I complete the order, the balance will be due. When I receive the remaining 50%, I will immediately mail the order in a keepsake box at no extra expense to you.