With a new month upon us it is time for a progress report. Many that were waiting to place order payments for the fifth run have been wondering when that will be. This will be a short blog post just giving a general update with regards to progress on production at this time.
Firstly, as has been customary, I’ll begin with my general thoughts on The Varlet currently, and follow with details further below. Undoubtedly, given that order requests are still coming in regularly, there are many patrons that are responding positively to both the quality of workmanship that has been shipping as well as my recent policy adjustments with regards to time frames for order completions.
With regards to the quality of the brushes shipped recently, I have been getting some amazing feedback and it is always great to read those messages.
As far as time frames are concerned, some are no doubt wary of an open-ended estimate with regards to completion. However, given that I’ve developed a track record of giving updates, as well a tracking and shipping practice that has vastly improved once brushes are completed, I am feeling that folks are starting to understand the reasons for the process I’ve chosen. Nothing is more important to me than ensuring that faith in The Varlet remains strong. If there is anyone that is still not satisfied at not getting a brush right away, at the very least I can be confident that I’ve done my best to set expectations accurately. Given the unprecedented time that we are in, this has not been easy, and any shortcomings in this regard are very much regrettable.
Furthermore, given that I’m not taking any payments for any orders unless I can start production, that should give added peace of mind to those waiting. Personally, I’ve chosen not to receive payment for any brushes that I’m not actively working on. It’s incentive for me to pursue a steady pace of completion for brushes while ensuring quality. Those who have placed payments know that I do have a sense of urgency to complete them, and that it only takes a back seat to my commitment to making the brushes exceptional. This process has actually made my workflow much smoother, and as a result in the next few weeks I estimate that I should be shipping more brushes than I anticipated I could.
For those who are looking to own a custom brush, I am thankful for the trust they’ve given me that the length of time necessary is exactly that, necessary. I know that ensuring every detail is taken care of gives me the peace of mind that I need, because to offset any negativity out there and have the will to continue my craft, I have to first be sure in my mind that I’m doing my best for my patrons. Needless to say, my hours in the shop are very long, but quite frankly I enjoy what I do and so can withstand the work. I know I’m fortunate in that regard and I don’t take it for granted.
Production Details
Second Run - Completed.
Third Run - Nearly complete. One brush remains to be shipped, which is a Beehive, which usually requires more time.
Fourth Run - About 50% complete. Photo updates went out last week to some on the fourth run and I will have updates for the remaining orders within a week’s time at my best estimation.
Fifth Run - I will not take payments for the fifth run until the fourth run is ready to be shipped, which I anticipate with my best estimation that it will be by the end of the month. This is only a general time frame and is not a guarantee. I do not know how large the fifth run will be and cannot at this time give any predictions with regards to completion.
Final Thoughts
Needless to say, 2020 has been an eventful year so far, both for The Varlet and for the entire world. Just like everyone, I am not making any long-term plans. I don’t think it would even be wise to make medium-term plans. I’m taking it day by day and hoping to do my best to communicate things as they stand at the moment. I continue to wish everyone stay safe and healthy, and thanks so much for reading.
-Aldo
