Frequently Asked Questions
What materials do you use?
Most of the fabrics sourced are organic cotton, hemp, and bamboo. Occasionally polyester blends are included if they contain original art, though they are limited to accent pieces.
Where do your materials come from?
Panty Witch has arrangements to collect factory scraps from several small clothing manufacturers in Washington State. Some of the specialty factory scraps (e.g. custom dyed) are sourced from other states. high-quality, repurposed fabric scraps from thrifted or donated garments add fun splashes of color tot he palettes. The remainder of the cotton fabric is purchased new from companies that are environmentally friendly.
What is the inner crotch fabric made of?
The inner crotch, the fabric touching your skin, is always made of natural fibers such as 100% cotton, hemp, or bamboo.
Can you remake a pair you posted on IG?
Generally not, though sometimes. With the nature of working with scraps it is sometimes impossible to make a replica of a pair. Among the downsides of working with scraps is the inability to produce in bulk. One of the best upsides to scrapping is the uniqueness of each pair. While an exact replica isn't likely, a similar pair to what was previously posted on Instagram is definitely a possibility. Just ask!
What are period panties?
Period panties are just like regular underwear, except they have extra layers of densely-woven, highly -absorbent fabric that absorbs the menstrual blood. Depending on flow, period panties can be worn on their own or with a tampon or menstrual cup. If you have a heavy flow, you may need to change your period panties more than once a day or get some extra help from a tampon or menstrual cup. Wear your period underwear on days when you're bleeding. Just as with all Panty Witch panties, you can wash your period underwear on gentle wash and low heat dry or hand wash and air dry for an extra long life.
Can you remake a pair you posted on IG?
Generally not, though sometimes. With the nature of working with scraps it is sometimes impossible to make a replica of a pair. I can normally make something similar, but rarely it's 100% identical.
Why are your panties so expensive?
This question can be answered from several angles: Sadly, fast fashion has warped our perceptions of the labor and expense involved in making clothing. Most store-bought clothing is imported from countries where a factory sewist was paid pennies on the dollar of the item's purchase price. Additionally, the highly mechanized clothing construction processes enable mass production and are generally associated with excessive pre-consumer waste. For as close as these clothes are to our bodies, the labor issues and inequity they represent are usually quite far from our awareness. Panty Witch expenses include employee time, materials, equipment, and letting space. Each pair of Panty Witch panties takes between two to three hours to cut and sew. however, this does not include the time that goes into procuring, sorting, and organizing scraps. The yardage that is purchased is always 100% organic and is $20-$40/yard wholesale. The business owns and maintains several industrial sewing machines within a small sewing studio. The owner/sewist pays herself between $20-25 an hour, just as she pays those who contract with her.
The Sliding Scale
Panty Witch understands that everyone who is delighted by these styles cannot afford the full price, which is why a sliding scale is offered. Based on an honor system (self-determined price within the scale listed), the sliding scale offers access to original, wearable art to a broader population base. Panty Witch's consumer base attracts artisans who value the creative process and the real costs behind it. Rita, the company's owner, appreciates her customers' thoughtful response to her sliding scale, which allows it to continue.
What is the Sliding Scale?
Panty Witch understands that everyone who is delighted by these styles cannot afford the full price, which is why a sliding scale is offered. Based on an honor system (self-determined price within the scale listed), the sliding scale offers access to original, wearable art to a broader population base.
Panty Witch’s consumer base attracts artisans who value the creative process and the real costs behind it. Rita, the company’s owner, appreciates her customers’ thoughtful response to her sliding scale, which allows it to continue.
Why does the make-to-order time take 8-10 weeks?
While efficiency is valued, streamlining production has a different meaning for Panty Witch. We’re all about the magic of making unique panties based on fabric and scrap availability, customer preference, and size. This takes a surprising amount of time. It is equally important that the time commitment given to the customer is honored, hence the 8-10 week time frame. We appreciate your patience as you wait for your one-of-a-kind panties.
Making specific sizes and color schemes takes more time and mental energy than making whatever I’m called to. I love being able to give people their dream pair but it can be draining at times. To keep myself sane I give myself more time so that I can stagger order in between other projects I’m working on. I’m grateful for peoples patience in this process!
What are we doing to be low waste?
Textile waste is gaining well-deserved attention with environmental impact indicators, such as sea life containing alarming amounts of plastic microfibers, some of which comes from the disposal of textiles. Textile waste can be categorized into pre-consumer and post-consumer. The bulk of pre-consumer waste is generated during the cutting process—10-25% of the fabric is lost in that process. Post-consumer waste is generated by post-factory articles of clothing, linens, and other textile items not in use. Panty Witch is among some companies who have taken sustainability to the next level by using over 80% pre- and post-consumer waste.
Contrary to common perception, using scraps does not cut costs. Significant time and energy are expended not only in collecting and sorting the scraps, but largely in the process of designing and cutting with scraps. Creativity and sustainability drive Panty Witch’s commitment to scrapping.
Where are the 20% of profits donated?
Panty Witch donates quarterly to organizations that act to bring equity and access to indigenous populations and people of color. Currently, the majority of donations go to Real Rent Duwamish (https://www.realrentduwamish.org) and Dig Deep Water (www.digdeep.org). Panty Witch is open to learning about other organizations that demonstrate creative change based on the values of equity and access.
Why do I need to measure when I know my general size for other brands? How do I measure myself?
Panty Witch patterns are drafted based on hip measurements because there is no universal standard for clothing sizes. Your actual hip measurement is the best way to assure you get the Panty Witch magic!
To get your accurate hip measurement, place a soft tape measure around the fullest portion of your hips/bottom. And remember, this is only a number! This is not a measurement of beauty or worth.
How does shipping work? What shipping service is used?
Panty Witch is a tried-and-true United States Postal Service (USPS) fan because the USPS is the most affordable and they deliver to post office boxes. Shipping and handling is included in the cost of the item.
Why is America the only country you ship to?
At this time, Panty Witch does not have the infrastructure to handle international orders. When applicable, some international customers have worked around this limitation by having an item shipped to a friend in the USA.
What if my package gets lost in the mail?
Panty Witch keeps record of the USPS tracking numbers for each package. If there are issues with shipping, the customer will be provided with the tracking number. Ultimately, Panty Witch does not assume liability for lost items.
Can I return a purchase?
Panty Witch does not accept returns, primarily for hygienic reasons. While it’s been uncommon for customers to seek a return, the vast majority are for improper size. This reinforces the importance of accurately measuring your hips regardless of what size you think you might be.
How do I care for my Panty Witch panties?
For longevity of your panties, hand wash with a mild detergent and hang dry. Avoid direct sun exposure as it breaks down the elastins in some of the fabrics.