Tape Measures, Tailor and Truth

There is a path that led Callum McCann from engineering student to bespoke tailor. He took a part-time job as a tailor’s assistant and it awakened a passion. It drew on his love of design and appreciation for precision. The third and deciding element, however, was the craft; creating with your own hands something that did not previously exist. An introverted man, Callum’s passion is not immediately obvious. Until you see him at his work.

A workplace should support the worker and the work. Colour, texture, arrangement, flow. You step into his shop. It feels right; fit for purpose. The space’s physical and psychical elements. Timber floors, British racing green walls, brass fittings and, to celebrate, single malt scotch. 

Callum wants your suit to be your second skin. So comfortable you forget you’re wearing it, even after twelve hours.

The tools of trade are simple. Tape measure, scissors, fabric, sewing machine, needle and thread. They are at hand, visible –they are not on display.

Simple lighting illuminates: measuring, selecting, cutting, stitching, and fitting. 

It matters less what you do than how you do it. Your resolve and steadfastness. To perform difficult tasks without evident effort. To respect the work and its traditions whilst remaining open to new ideas and ways. To hold to quality. You see it in the way Callum works. Tailor and client.

When you cut a fabric, you change it forever. Callum’s heavy scissors slice cleanly, with a deep-toned sound; his steady hand guided by tailor’s chalk marks. 

A tailored suit is a statement. Of coherence, commitment and intent. It permits adjustment. Adapts to the owner and life’s changes. The process demands trust between tailor and client. Honesty regarding expectations and realities. For Callum, these conversations, difficult as they can be, are crucial. To understand each other and what the finished garment will be.

The tape measure does not lie. The suit frames the body, engenders confidence, feels good. It is stylish, it is comfortable, it conforms. In his own words, ‘It hugs you in all the right places.’ The skill and craft are subtle, discreet.

The suits Callum tailors do not lie. He makes suits that suit his clients. Seamless.