In the early 19th Century, when the synthetic fibers we have come to rely upon weren't available, the water proofing of clothes was a continual struggle.
When Charles Macintosh patented his superior method of rubberising fabric he created a new product that became an instant success. Early Mac coats had problems with smell, stiffness, and a tendency to melt in hot weather, but these were largely solved by the patenting of a new innovation: the vulcanising of rubber in Although Charles Macintosh's process wasn't perfect, and would steadily be improved over time, it was far superior to any other product on the market.
The Mackintosh coat became ubiquitous and its name came to define an entire category of clothes. Mackintosh still produce coats with a surprisingly simple process that uses the same technology as the original Mackintosh coat.
The core material in a Mackintosh coat is still the bonded cotton that is made using a process originally patented by the company founder Charles Macintosh in This cotton is now produced by Mackintosh in Japan before being delivered to its factory in Cumbernauld, Scotland.
Once the bonded cotton arrives at the Mackintosh factory, a cutter, using an agreed pattern, will cut out each individual piece ready for them to be sewn and glued together. Each seam is glued and taped by hand. As well as ensuring that the seams of each coat are waterproof, this technique makes it easier to join both curved edges and corners.
All the seams are stitched and then each seam has the rubber-based glue applied then rolled to make it flat. When the solution on the coat is dry, any excess can be removed by roller and brush.
Now, the company's range of men's and women's raincoats, that range from slim,single-breasted styles to double-breasted, belted trenches, is made by craftspeople who have served a three-year apprenticeship. It was turned into a fashion icon by stars such as Audrey Hepburn and Steve McQueen, which sealed its reputation as a venerable British brand. Like Burberry and Paul Smith, Mackintosh's Britishness has also given it a cult status in Japan, where it is hugely popular.
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Start your Independent Premium subscription today. More about Google Doodle Charles Macintosh. Already subscribed? These polymer materials do not have ventilation openings; instead of this, they have a membrane Goretex, Sympatex etc. Rainwater does not, however, get inside through these pores. What is important is not just the material but also knowing how to use it sensibly.
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