How to Order Custom Pillowcases in Korean

Trying to order something specific like a custom-made item in a foreign language can feel daunting, especially when details matter. Are you wondering how to ask a shop owner in Korea to create a pillowcase exactly the way you want it? Don’t worry! This guide provides all the essential Korean expressions and cultural insights you need to confidently discuss and place a custom pillowcase order. You’ll learn how to specify size, fabric, design, and more, ensuring you get the perfect personalized item while navigating the conversation smoothly.

Core Expression: Asking About Custom Orders

When you want to inquire about getting something custom-made, knowing the right starting phrase is key. This expression is fundamental for initiating a conversation about personalized items like pillowcases.

• Expression: 베갯잇 주문 제작 가능한가요?
  Pronunciation: be-gaet-it ju-mun je-jak ga-neung-han-ga-yo?
  Meaning: Is it possible to custom order a pillowcase?

This phrase directly asks about the possibility of custom ordering (주문 제작 – ju-mun je-jak) a specific item, in this case, a pillowcase (베갯잇 – be-gaet-it). Using 가능한가요? (ga-neung-han-ga-yo?) makes the question polite and suitable for addressing a store owner or artisan. It’s a versatile starting point for any custom order inquiry, clearly stating your intention.

You can adapt this core phrase for other items as well. Simply replace 베갯잇 (be-gaet-it) with the name of the item you wish to have custom-made. For example, for a custom t-shirt, you might ask: 티셔츠 주문 제작 가능한가요? (ti-syeo-cheu ju-mun je-jak ga-neung-han-ga-yo?). This structure provides a reliable template for initiating various custom order requests in Korean shops.

Key Expressions: Initiating the Order Inquiry

Starting the conversation correctly sets the stage for a smooth custom order process. These expressions cover initial inquiries about custom services and specifying that you’re interested in pillowcases.

• Expression: 안녕하세요, 혹시 주문 제작도 하시나요?
  Pronunciation: an-nyeong-ha-se-yo, hok-si ju-mun je-jak-do ha-si-na-yo?
  Meaning: Hello, do you happen to do custom orders?
• Expression: 베갯잇을 맞춤 제작하고 싶은데요.
  Pronunciation: be-gaet-it-eul mat-chum je-jak-ha-go sip-eun-de-yo.
  Meaning: I would like to custom order a pillowcase.
• Expression: 여기서 베갯잇 디자인을 고를 수 있나요?
  Pronunciation: yeo-gi-seo be-gaet-it di-ja-in-eul go-reul su it-na-yo?
  Meaning: Can I choose a pillowcase design here?
• Expression: 맞춤 베갯잇을 만들 수 있는지 궁금합니다.
  Pronunciation: mat-chum be-gaet-it-eul man-deul su it-neun-ji gung-geum-ham-ni-da.
  Meaning: I’m wondering if it’s possible to make a custom pillowcase.
• Expression: 원하는 디자인으로 베갯잇 제작이 가능할까요?
  Pronunciation: won-ha-neun di-ja-in-eu-ro be-gaet-it je-jak-i ga-neung-hal-kka-yo?
  Meaning: Would it be possible to make a pillowcase with a design I want?
• Expression: 혹시 베개 커버도 맞춤 제작 해주시나요?
  Pronunciation: hok-si be-gae keo-beo-do mat-chum je-jak hae-ju-si-na-yo?
  Meaning: Do you perhaps also custom make pillow covers? (Using ‘pillow cover’ as an alternative)
• Expression: 제가 원하는 스타일로 베갯잇을 만들고 싶어요.
  Pronunciation: je-ga won-ha-neun seu-ta-il-lo be-gaet-it-eul man-deul-go sip-eo-yo.
  Meaning: I want to make a pillowcase in the style I want.
• Expression: 주문 제작 절차가 어떻게 되나요?
  Pronunciation: ju-mun je-jak jeol-cha-ga eo-tteo-ke doe-na-yo?
  Meaning: What is the procedure for custom orders?
• Expression: 샘플 디자인 같은 거 볼 수 있을까요?
  Pronunciation: saem-peul di-ja-in ga-teun geo bol su i-sseul-kka-yo?
  Meaning: Could I possibly see something like sample designs?
• Expression: 베갯잇 소재는 어떤 것들이 있나요?
  Pronunciation: be-gaet-it so-jae-neun eo-tteon geot-deul-i it-na-yo?
  Meaning: What kind of materials are available for pillowcases?
• Expression: 특별한 사이즈로 제작도 가능한가요?
  Pronunciation: teuk-byeol-han sa-i-jeu-ro je-jak-do ga-neung-han-ga-yo?
  Meaning: Is it possible to make it in a special size?
• Expression: 이런 스타일로 베갯잇을 만들 수 있을지 여쭤봅니다.
  Pronunciation: i-reon seu-ta-il-lo be-gaet-it-eul man-deul su i-sseul-ji yeo-jjwo-bom-ni-da.
  Meaning: I’m asking if it’s possible to make a pillowcase in this style. (Useful if you have a picture or example)
• Expression: 맞춤 제작 상담 좀 받을 수 있을까요?
  Pronunciation: mat-chum je-jak sang-dam jom ba-deul su i-sseul-kka-yo?
  Meaning: Could I get a consultation for a custom order?
• Expression: 베갯잇 하나를 주문 제작하고 싶습니다.
  Pronunciation: be-gaet-it ha-na-reul ju-mun je-jak-ha-go sip-seum-ni-da.
  Meaning: I would like to custom order one pillowcase.
• Expression: 혹시 자수도 넣어주시나요?
  Pronunciation: hok-si ja-su-do neo-eo-ju-si-na-yo?
  Meaning: Do you perhaps also add embroidery?

These phrases help you confirm if the shop offers custom services and smoothly transition into discussing the specific item you want, which is a pillowcase. Being clear and polite from the start is important in Korean business interactions.

Key Expressions: Discussing Customization Details

Once you’ve confirmed that custom ordering is possible, you need to specify the details. This involves discussing size, fabric, color, design elements, and any text or images you want included.

• Expression: 사이즈는 어떻게 해드릴까요?
  Pronunciation: sa-i-jeu-neun eo-tteo-ke hae-deu-ril-kka-yo?
  Meaning: What size should we make it? (Shop owner might ask this)
• Expression: 표준 베개 사이즈로 해주세요.
  Pronunciation: pyo-jun be-gae sa-i-jeu-ro hae-ju-se-yo.
  Meaning: Please make it in the standard pillow size.
• Expression: 가로 70센티, 세로 50센티로 만들어 주세요.
  Pronunciation: ga-ro chil-sip-sen-ti, se-ro o-sip-sen-ti-ro man-deu-reo ju-se-yo.
  Meaning: Please make it 70cm wide and 50cm long.
• Expression: 어떤 원단을 선호하시나요?
  Pronunciation: eo-tteon won-dan-eul seon-ho-ha-si-na-yo?
  Meaning: What kind of fabric do you prefer? (Shop owner might ask)
• Expression: 면 소재로 하고 싶어요. 부드러운 걸로요.
  Pronunciation: myeon so-jae-ro ha-go sip-eo-yo. bu-deu-reo-un geol-lo-yo.
  Meaning: I’d like it in cotton material. A soft one.
• Expression: 실크나 새틴 같은 소재도 있나요?
  Pronunciation: sil-keu-na sae-tin ga-teun so-jae-do it-na-yo?
  Meaning: Do you also have materials like silk or satin?
• Expression: 색상은 어떤 걸로 하시겠어요?
  Pronunciation: saek-sang-eun eo-tteon geol-lo ha-si-ge-sseo-yo?
  Meaning: What color would you like? (Shop owner might ask)
• Expression: 이 샘플 색상으로 해주세요.
  Pronunciation: i saem-peul saek-sang-eu-ro hae-ju-se-yo.
  Meaning: Please make it in this sample color.
• Expression: 디자인은 제가 가져온 그림으로 가능한가요?
  Pronunciation: di-ja-in-eun je-ga ga-jyeo-on geu-rim-eu-ro ga-neung-han-ga-yo?
  Meaning: For the design, is it possible to use the picture I brought?
• Expression: 여기에 작은 글씨를 새기고 싶어요.
  Pronunciation: yeo-gi-e ja-geun geul-ssi-reul sae-gi-go sip-eo-yo.
  Meaning: I want to embroider small text here.
• Expression: 글씨체는 이걸로 해주세요.
  Pronunciation: geul-ssi-che-neun i-geol-lo hae-ju-se-yo.
  Meaning: Please use this font for the text.
• Expression: 양면 디자인이 다른 것도 가능한가요?
  Pronunciation: yang-myeon di-ja-in-i da-reun geot-do ga-neung-han-ga-yo?
  Meaning: Is it possible to have different designs on each side?
• Expression: 마감 처리는 어떻게 되나요? (예: 지퍼, 단추)
  Pronunciation: ma-gam cheo-ri-neun eo-tteo-ke doe-na-yo? (ye: ji-peo, dan-chu)
  Meaning: How is the closure done? (e.g., zipper, buttons)
• Expression: 지퍼 스타일로 부탁드립니다.
  Pronunciation: ji-peo seu-ta-il-lo bu-tak-deu-rim-ni-da.
  Meaning: Please make it zipper style.
• Expression: 원단 샘플을 직접 만져볼 수 있을까요?
  Pronunciation: won-dan saem-peul-eul jik-jeop man-jyeo-bol su i-sseul-kka-yo?
  Meaning: Could I possibly feel the fabric samples myself?

Being precise about your requirements is crucial for custom orders. Use these phrases to clearly communicate your desired size, material, color, and design features. Don’t hesitate to ask for samples or clarification if needed.

Key Expressions: Asking About Price and Production Time

After settling the design details, the next steps involve understanding the cost, payment process, how long it will take to make, and how you will receive the final product.

• Expression: 이렇게 주문하면 비용이 얼마인가요?
  Pronunciation: i-reo-ke ju-mun-ha-myeon bi-yong-i eol-ma-in-ga-yo?
  Meaning: If I order it like this, how much will it cost?
• Expression: 가격 견적을 받을 수 있을까요?
  Pronunciation: ga-gyeok gyeon-jeok-eul ba-deul su i-sseul-kka-yo?
  Meaning: Could I get a price estimate?
• Expression: 제작 기간은 얼마나 걸리나요?
  Pronunciation: je-jak gi-gan-eun eol-ma-na geol-li-na-yo?
  Meaning: How long does the production take?
• Expression: 언제쯤 완성될까요?
  Pronunciation: eon-je-jjeum wan-seong-doel-kka-yo?
  Meaning: Around when will it be completed?
• Expression: 결제는 어떻게 하나요? 선불인가요?
  Pronunciation: gyeol-je-neun eo-tteo-ke ha-na-yo? seon-bul-in-ga-yo?
  Meaning: How do I pay? Is it prepaid?
• Expression: 계약금(선금)이 필요한가요?
  Pronunciation: gye-yak-geum (seon-geum)-i pil-yo-han-ga-yo?
  Meaning: Is a deposit (down payment) required?
• Expression: 완성되면 연락 주시나요?
  Pronunciation: wan-seong-doe-myeon yeol-lak ju-si-na-yo?
  Meaning: Will you contact me when it’s finished?
• Expression: 직접 찾으러 와야 하나요, 아니면 배송도 가능한가요?
  Pronunciation: jik-jeop cha-jeu-reo wa-ya ha-na-yo, a-ni-myeon bae-song-do ga-neung-han-ga-yo?
  Meaning: Do I need to come pick it up myself, or is delivery also possible?
• Expression: 배송비는 별도인가요?
  Pronunciation: bae-song-bi-neun byeol-tto-in-ga-yo?
  Meaning: Is the delivery fee separate?
• Expression: 혹시 할인이 가능한가요? (Generally less common for custom orders)
  Pronunciation: hok-si hal-in-i ga-neung-han-ga-yo?
  Meaning: Is a discount possible by any chance?
• Expression: 주문 내용을 다시 한번 확인해 주시겠어요?
  Pronunciation: ju-mun nae-yong-eul da-si han-beon hwa-gin-hae ju-si-ge-sseo-yo?
  Meaning: Could you please confirm the order details once more?
• Expression: 총 금액과 예상 완료일을 알려주세요.
  Pronunciation: chong geu-maek-gwa ye-sang wan-lyo-il-eul al-lyeo-ju-se-yo.
  Meaning: Please tell me the total amount and the estimated completion date.
• Expression: 주문 취소나 변경 규정은 어떻게 되나요?
  Pronunciation: ju-mun chwi-so-na byeon-gyeong gyu-jeong-eun eo-tteo-ke doe-na-yo?
  Meaning: What are the rules for order cancellation or changes?
• Expression: 현금 영수증 발행해 주세요.
  Pronunciation: hyeon-geum yeong-su-jeung bal-haeng-hae ju-se-yo.
  Meaning: Please issue a cash receipt.
• Expression: 카드로 결제할게요.
  Pronunciation: ka-deu-ro gyeol-je-hal-kke-yo.
  Meaning: I’ll pay by card.

Clarifying these practical aspects ensures there are no misunderstandings about cost, timeline, or delivery. Always confirm the final details before finalizing the order.

Practical Tips: Ordering Custom Items in Korea

Navigating custom orders in Korea can be a smooth process if you keep a few key points in mind. These tips will help you communicate effectively and manage expectations.

• Be Specific and Prepared: Have a clear idea of what you want before you go. Bring reference pictures, drawings, or even measurements if possible. The more visual aids and precise details you provide (정확한 정보 제공 – jeong-hwak-han jeong-bo je-gong), the easier it is for the maker to understand your vision and the less room there is for error. Write down key specifications like size (사이즈 – sa-i-jeu), color (색상 – saek-sang), and material (소재 – so-jae) in Korean if you can.
• Confirm Everything in Writing (If Possible): For complex or expensive orders, ask if you can get the agreed details, price, and estimated completion date written down. This could be on an order form (주문서 – ju-mun-seo) or even a simple memo. This confirmation (확인 – hwa-gin) helps prevent misunderstandings later. Use phrases like 주문 내용을 서면으로 확인할 수 있을까요? (ju-mun nae-yong-eul seo-myeon-eu-ro hwa-gin-hal su i-sseul-kka-yo? – Can I confirm the order details in writing?).
• Understand Production Time: Custom items take time. Ask clearly about the estimated production period (제작 기간 – je-jak gi-gan) using 제작 기간은 얼마나 걸리나요? (je-jak gi-gan-eun eol-ma-na geol-li-na-yo?). Be patient and understand that quality work requires time. Factor this waiting period into your plans, especially if you need the item by a specific date.
• Payment Terms: Clarify payment expectations. It’s common to pay a deposit (계약금 – gye-yak-geum or 선금 – seon-geum) upfront, with the balance due upon completion or pickup. Ask: 선금이 필요한가요? (seon-geum-i pil-yo-han-ga-yo? – Is a deposit needed?). Confirm the total price (총 금액 – chong geu-maek) before agreeing.
• Communication is Key: Use polite language (존댓말 – jon-daen-mal) throughout the interaction. If your Korean isn’t fluent, using translation apps or writing things down can be helpful. Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification if you don’t understand something: 다시 한번 설명해 주시겠어요? (da-si han-beon seol-myeong-hae ju-si-ge-sseo-yo? – Could you explain that again?).
• Check Return/Alteration Policy: Custom-made items often have stricter return or exchange policies than ready-made goods. Ask about the policy for adjustments or fixes if the final product isn’t quite right: 혹시 완성 후에 수정이 필요한 경우 어떻게 되나요? (hok-si wan-seong hu-e su-jeong-i pil-yo-han gyeong-u eo-tteo-ke doe-na-yo? – What happens if adjustments are needed after completion?). Understand the terms before committing.
• Manage Expectations: While artisans strive to meet requests, exact replication of a complex design or achieving a very specific nuance might be challenging. Be open to minor variations or suggestions from the expert maker. They often know best what works with certain materials or techniques.

Cultural Tips

Understanding cultural nuances can significantly enhance your experience when interacting with shop owners and ordering custom items in Korea. It’s not just about the language, but also about unspoken expectations and relationship dynamics.

Building Rapport (정 – Jeong):
Korean culture places a high value on relationships and a sense of connection, often referred to as 정 (jeong). While a custom order is a business transaction, showing genuine interest and politeness can go a long way. Start with a polite greeting (안녕하세요 – an-nyeong-ha-se-yo) and maintain a friendly demeanor. Complimenting the shop or the owner’s work (여기 물건들이 정말 예쁘네요 – yeo-gi mul-geon-deul-i jeong-mal ye-ppeu-ne-yo – The items here are really pretty) can help build rapport. Small talk, if appropriate and time permits, can also foster a more positive interaction. This doesn’t mean becoming best friends, but rather showing respect and warmth. A good relationship might lead to better service or more willingness from the owner to accommodate specific requests. Avoid being overly demanding or impatient, as this can be perceived negatively. Patience and politeness are highly valued, especially when asking for personalized service which requires extra effort from the maker. Remember that the interaction is not just transactional but also relational to some extent.

Directness vs. Indirectness in Communication:
While you need to be specific about your custom order details, Koreans often communicate requests or potential issues somewhat indirectly, especially in initial interactions or when dealing with potentially sensitive topics like price negotiation (though haggling is less common for custom work). Instead of a blunt “This is too expensive,” a softer approach might be used, like inquiring about different material options that might affect the price. When providing feedback or asking for changes, phrasing it politely is crucial. For example, instead of saying “This is wrong,” you might say 제가 생각했던 것과 조금 다른데요 (je-ga saeng-gak-haet-deon geot-gwa jo-geum da-reun-de-yo – It’s a little different from what I had in mind). However, for the actual specifications (size, color, text), clarity and directness are necessary to avoid mistakes. The key is balancing politeness and indirectness in the overall interaction while being clear and direct about the factual details of the order itself. Pay attention to the shop owner’s non-verbal cues and tone as well.

Gift-Giving Culture and Appreciation:
While not mandatory for a simple custom order, understanding Korea’s gift-giving culture provides context. Small gestures of appreciation can be very meaningful. If the shop owner has gone above and beyond, or if you’ve built a particularly good rapport over a complex order, a small, inexpensive token of thanks upon picking up your item (like a beverage or a small snack) can be a nice gesture, though certainly not expected for every transaction. More importantly, expressing sincere gratitude verbally is essential. Use phrases like 정말 감사합니다 (jeong-mal gam-sa-ham-ni-da – Thank you very much) and 수고하셨습니다 (su-go-ha-syeot-seum-ni-da – Thank you for your hard work/trouble) when receiving the finished product. Acknowledging the effort involved in custom work shows respect and appreciation for the artisan’s skill and time. This positive closing reinforces the relationship and leaves a good impression, which can be beneficial if you plan to be a returning customer.

Real Conversation Example

Here’s a sample dialogue between a customer (A) and a store owner (B) discussing a custom pillowcase order.

Situation: A customer enters a small textile shop that potentially offers custom services.

Roles:
A: Customer (손님 – son-nim)
B: Store Owner (가게 주인 – ga-ge ju-in)

• Expression: A: 안녕하세요. 혹시 베갯잇 주문 제작도 하시나요?
  Pronunciation: an-nyeong-ha-se-yo. hok-si be-gaet-it ju-mun je-jak-do ha-si-na-yo?
  Meaning: Hello. Do you happen to do custom pillowcase orders?
• Expression: B: 네, 가능합니다. 어떤 스타일을 원하세요?
  Pronunciation: ne, ga-neung-ham-ni-da. eo-tteon seu-ta-il-eul won-ha-se-yo?
  Meaning: Yes, it’s possible. What style are you looking for?
• Expression: A: 제가 원하는 디자인이 있는데, 이 사진처럼 만들 수 있을까요? 그리고 사이즈는 표준 베개 크기로 하고 싶어요.
  Pronunciation: je-ga won-ha-neun di-ja-in-i it-neun-de, i sa-jin-cheo-reom man-deul su i-sseul-kka-yo? geu-ri-go sa-i-jeu-neun pyo-jun be-gae keu-gi-ro ha-go sip-eo-yo.
  Meaning: I have a design I want, could you make it like this picture? And I’d like the size to be standard pillow size.
• Expression: B: 사진 좀 보여주시겠어요? (사진을 본 후) 아, 네. 이 디자인 가능해요. 원단은 어떤 걸로 하시겠어요? 면, 리넨, 실크 등이 있습니다.
  Pronunciation: sa-jin jom bo-yeo-ju-si-ge-sseo-yo? (sa-jin-eul bon hu) a, ne. i di-ja-in ga-neung-hae-yo. won-dan-eun eo-tteon geol-lo ha-si-ge-sseo-yo? myeon, ri-nen, sil-keu deung-i it-seum-ni-da.
  Meaning: Could you show me the picture? (After looking at the picture) Ah, yes. This design is possible. What fabric would you like? We have cotton, linen, silk, etc.
• Expression: A: 부드러운 면으로 하고 싶어요. 색상은 연한 회색으로 가능할까요?
  Pronunciation: bu-deu-reo-un myeon-eu-ro ha-go sip-eo-yo. saek-sang-eun yeon-han hoe-saek-eu-ro ga-neung-hal-kka-yo?
  Meaning: I’d like soft cotton. Is light grey possible for the color?
• Expression: B: 네, 연회색 면 원단 있습니다. 그럼 표준 사이즈, 연회색 면, 이 디자인으로 제작해 드릴게요. 마감은 지퍼로 해드릴까요?
  Pronunciation: ne, yeon-hoe-saek myeon won-dan it-seum-ni-da. geu-reom pyo-jun sa-i-jeu, yeon-hoe-saek myeon, i di-ja-in-eu-ro je-jak-hae deu-ril-kke-yo. ma-gam-eun ji-peo-ro hae-deu-ril-kka-yo?
  Meaning: Yes, we have light grey cotton fabric. Then I’ll make it in standard size, light grey cotton, with this design. Shall I do a zipper closure?
• Expression: A: 네, 지퍼로 부탁드립니다. 제작 기간은 얼마나 걸리고, 비용은 얼마인가요?
  Pronunciation: ne, ji-peo-ro bu-tak-deu-rim-ni-da. je-jak gi-gan-eun eol-ma-na geol-li-go, bi-yong-eun eol-ma-in-ga-yo?
  Meaning: Yes, please make it with a zipper. How long will production take, and how much is the cost?
• Expression: B: 보통 일주일 정도 걸립니다. 비용은 3만 5천원입니다. 선금으로 만원 먼저 결제해 주시면 됩니다.
  Pronunciation: bo-tong il-ju-il jeong-do geol-lim-ni-da. bi-yong-eun sam-man o-cheon-won-im-ni-da. seon-geum-eu-ro man-won meon-jeo gyeol-je-hae ju-si-myeon doem-ni-da.
  Meaning: It usually takes about a week. The cost is 35,000 won. You can pay 10,000 won first as a deposit.
• Expression: A: 알겠습니다. 그럼 주문할게요. 완성되면 연락 주시겠어요?
  Pronunciation: al-get-seum-ni-da. geu-reom ju-mun-hal-kke-yo. wan-seong-doe-myeon yeol-lak ju-si-ge-sseo-yo?
  Meaning: Okay, I understand. Then I’ll place the order. Will you contact me when it’s finished?
• Expression: B: 네, 성함과 연락처 남겨주시면 완성되는 대로 문자 드리겠습니다.
  Pronunciation: ne, seong-ham-gwa yeol-lak-cheo nam-gyeo-ju-si-myeon wan-seong-doe-neun dae-ro mun-ja deu-ri-get-seum-ni-da.
  Meaning: Yes, if you leave your name and contact number, I will text you as soon as it’s completed.

Conversation Points & Analysis:

• Initiation: Customer A starts politely and directly asks about custom pillowcase orders using 주문 제작도 하시나요? (ju-mun je-jak-do ha-si-na-yo?).
• Specification with Visual Aid: A uses a photo (사진 – sa-jin) to clearly communicate the desired design, which is very effective for custom orders. They also specify the size (표준 베개 크기 – pyo-jun be-gae keu-gi).
• Offering Options: The owner (B) confirms possibility and proactively offers fabric options (면, 리넨, 실크 등 – myeon, ri-nen, sil-keu deung).
• Confirmation Loop: B summarizes the confirmed details (size, color, fabric, design, closure) before stating the price and production time, ensuring mutual understanding. ~으로 제작해 드릴게요 (eu-ro je-jak-hae deu-ril-kke-yo – I will make it with/as ~) is a common pattern for confirmation.
• Practical Details: The conversation covers key practicalities like production time (제작 기간 – je-jak gi-gan), cost (비용 – bi-yong), deposit (선금 – seon-geum), and contact upon completion (완성되면 연락 – wan-seong-doe-myeon yeol-lak).

Additional Useful Information: Related Vocabulary and Phrases

Expanding your vocabulary related to fabrics, designs, and potential issues can be very helpful when discussing custom orders in more detail.

Common Fabric Types (원단 종류 – Won-dan Jong-nyu):

• 면 (Myeon): Cotton
• 리넨 (Rinen) / 마 (Ma): Linen
• 실크 (Silkeu) / 비단 (Bidan): Silk
• 새틴 (Saetin): Satin
• 폴리에스터 (Pollieseuteo): Polyester
• 벨벳 (Belbet): Velvet
• 극세사 (Geuksesa): Microfiber
• 자카드 (Jakadeu): Jacquard
• 옥스포드 (Okseupodeu): Oxford (often used for durable cotton weaves)
• 거즈 (Geojeu): Gauze

Knowing these terms allows you to specify or inquire about materials more accurately. For example: 혹시 리넨 소재도 있나요? (hok-si ri-nen so-jae-do it-na-yo? – Do you happen to have linen material as well?).

Design Elements and Customization Options (디자인 요소 및 맞춤 옵션 – Dijain Yoso mit Matchum Opsyeon):

• 자수 (Jasu): Embroidery
• 프린트 (Peurinteu): Print
• 패턴 (Paeteon): Pattern (e.g., 줄무늬 패턴 – jul-mu-nui pae-teon – striped pattern, 꽃무늬 패턴 – kkot-mu-nui pae-teon – floral pattern)
• 텍스트 추가 (Tekseuteu Chuga): Adding text
• 글씨체 (Geulssiche): Font / Typeface
• 지퍼 마감 (Jipeo Magam): Zipper closure
• 단추 마감 (Danchu Magam): Button closure
• 봉투식 마감 (Bongtusik Magam): Envelope closure
• 파이핑 (Paiping): Piping (decorative trim along edges)
• 프릴 (Peuril): Frills / Ruffles

Being able to name specific elements helps refine your order. Example: 가장자리에 파이핑을 추가할 수 있나요? (ga-jang-ja-ri-e pa-i-ping-eul chu-ga-hal su it-na-yo? – Can piping be added to the edges?).

Addressing Issues or Changes (문제 처리 및 변경 – Munje Cheori mit Byeongyeong):

• 주문을 변경하고 싶습니다. (Ju-mun-eul byeon-gyeong-ha-go sip-seum-ni-da.): I would like to change the order. (Best to do this ASAP, may not be possible after production starts).
• 생각했던 것과 조금 다릅니다. (Saeng-gak-haet-deon geot-gwa jo-geum da-reum-ni-da.): It’s a little different from what I expected. (Polite way to express dissatisfaction).
• 이 부분을 수정해 주실 수 있나요? (I bu-bun-eul su-jeong-hae ju-sil su it-na-yo?): Could you possibly fix/adjust this part?
• 사이즈가 약간 안 맞는 것 같아요. (Sa-i-jeu-ga yak-gan an mat-neun geot ga-ta-yo.): It seems the size is slightly off.
• 맞춤 제작 상품은 교환/환불이 어렵나요? (Mat-chum je-jak sang-pum-eun gyo-hwan/hwan-bul-i eo-ryeom-na-yo?): Is it difficult to exchange/refund custom-made products?
• 수선 비용이 발생하나요? (Su-seon bi-yong-i bal-saeng-ha-na-yo?): Is there a cost for repairs/alterations?

Knowing how to politely address potential issues or inquire about changes is important, although options might be limited for custom items.

Core Elements of Custom Orders: A Detailed Look

Successfully placing a custom order involves several key stages. Understanding these elements helps you navigate the process more effectively.

1. Specification (사양 명확화 – Sayang Myeonghwakhwa):
This is the foundation of any custom order. It involves clearly defining and communicating exactly what you want. For a pillowcase, this includes:

• Item: Clearly state 베갯잇 (be-gaet-it – pillowcase).
• Size: Provide specific dimensions (가로/세로 센티미터 – garo/sero sentimiteo – width/length centimeters) or refer to a standard size (표준 사이즈 – pyojun saijeu). Measure your pillow if unsure.
• Material: Choose the fabric (원단 – wondan) like 면 (myeon – cotton), 실크 (silkeu – silk), etc. Consider texture (질감 – jilgam – e.g., 부드러운 – budeureoun – soft) and care instructions.
• Color: Specify the desired color (색상 – saeksang). Using color samples (색상 견본 – saeksang gyeonbon) or pointing to existing items helps ensure accuracy.
• Design: Describe the visual elements. This could be a solid color, a pattern (무늬 – munui), embroidery (자수 – jasu), print (프린트 – peurinteu), or text (글씨 – geulssi). Providing images (사진 – sajin) or drawings (그림 – geurim) is highly recommended for complex designs.
• Closure: Specify the type of closure, such as zipper (지퍼 – jipeo), buttons (단추 – danchu), or envelope style (봉투식 – bongtusik).
• Quantity: State how many items you need (수량 – suryang).

Being thorough in this stage minimizes the chance of errors. Use phrases like ~으로 해주세요 (~eu-ro hae-ju-se-yo – Please make it with/as ~) to state your preferences clearly.

2. Communication and Consultation (소통 및 상담 – Sotong mit Sangdam):
This involves the back-and-forth between you and the store owner/artisan. It’s more than just stating specifications; it’s a dialogue.

• Asking Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask about possibilities (~가능한가요? – ~ga-neung-han-ga-yo?), material options (어떤 소재가 있나요? – eo-tteon so-jae-ga it-na-yo?), production time (얼마나 걸리나요? – eol-ma-na geol-li-na-yo?), and cost (비용은 얼마인가요? – bi-yong-eun eol-ma-in-ga-yo?).
• Listening to Suggestions: The maker might offer advice based on their expertise, perhaps suggesting a more suitable fabric or a slight design modification for better results. Listen actively to their input.
• Clarification: If anything is unclear, ask for clarification (다시 설명해 주시겠어요? – da-si seol-myeong-hae ju-si-ge-sseo-yo?). Repeat details back to ensure understanding.
• Politeness: Maintain a polite and respectful tone (존댓말 사용 – jondaenmal sayong) throughout the conversation. This fosters a positive working relationship.

Effective communication ensures both parties are on the same page before production begins. Using visual aids and confirming details verbally are crucial parts of this stage.

3. Confirmation and Agreement (확인 및 합의 – Hwagin mit Habui):
Before finalizing the order, it’s essential to confirm all the details and agree on the terms.

• Review Order Details: Go over the specifications one last time. The shop owner might do this, or you can request it: 주문 내용을 다시 한번 확인해 주시겠어요? (ju-mun nae-yong-eul da-si han-beon hwa-gin-hae ju-si-ge-sseo-yo?).
• Confirm Price and Payment: Ensure you understand the total cost (총 금액 – chong geum-aek), any required deposit (선금 – seon-geum), and the payment method.
• Confirm Timeline: Reconfirm the estimated completion date (예상 완료일 – ye-sang wan-lyo-il) or production time (제작 기간 – je-jak gi-gan).
• Agree on Pickup/Delivery: Clarify how you will receive the item – pickup (직접 수령 – jik-jeop su-ryeong) or delivery (배송 – bae-song), and any associated costs.
• Written Confirmation (Optional but Recommended): Ask for a written summary or order form (주문서 – ju-mun-seo) if possible, especially for complex orders.

This final check ensures there are no surprises later on. Once everything is agreed upon, the order is typically placed, often involving paying the deposit.

Conclusion: Practice and Apply!

Ordering custom items like pillowcases in Korean might seem complex initially, but with the right phrases and cultural awareness, it’s definitely achievable! You’ve learned how to start the conversation, discuss specific details like size, fabric, and design, and inquire about important practicalities like price and production time~.

The key is preparation and clear communication. Before you visit a shop, think carefully about what you want and maybe even practice saying the key phrases aloud. Don’t be afraid to use visual aids like pictures or drawings – they bridge language gaps effectively! Remember to be polite and patient throughout the process; building a little rapport (정 – jeong) can make the experience smoother and more pleasant.

Ready to try? Here’s a simple action plan:
1. Identify exactly what kind of custom pillowcase you want (size, material, color, design).
2. Find a shop in Korea that potentially offers custom textile services (look for signs mentioning 맞춤 제작 – mat-chum je-jak or ask around).
3. Practice the initial inquiry phrases like 베갯잇 주문 제작 가능한가요? (be-gaet-it ju-mun je-jak ga-neung-han-ga-yo?).
4. Bring your specifications (and pictures!) and use the expressions from this guide to discuss the details.
5. Don’t forget to confirm the price, timeline, and pickup/delivery details before finalizing!

Even if your first attempt isn’t perfect, each interaction is valuable practice. Keep learning, keep trying, and soon you’ll be ordering custom items like a pro! 화이팅 (hwa-i-ting – You can do it)!