NEW SKINS by Mertailor

[Mermaid Oshun]

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[Echidna]

Bargain price, if one likes the fluke design.

Honestly though, I prefer my own tails :cool:

[Mermaid Cascada]

I hate to say it but I have a bad feeling about these. His work is beautiful though.

[Azurin Luna]

I saw the intro movie of his fin. I found it way to floppy, she was barely able to move forward and it looked like a struggle to get a kick out of them.

But that is my opinion of the movie

[Merman Arion]

I hate to say it but I have a bad feeling about these. His work is beautiful though.

Me too. As nice as they look on the outside, they are tricky in my opinion.

PearlyMae said about the video that they looked like more drag than propulsion. After looking closely at the flippers on the video, I agree with her. Unless you have Eric's experience and his strenght, good luck swimming with them.

The green tail would make a good "Ariel" tail though. But it's not something that i would buy. I would rather keep my blue tail from Magictail.

[Mermaid Oshun]

I dislike the seams. I like the way it is attached to the fluke though instead of being a big water bag at the bottom though.

[Mermaid Octavia]

I hate to say it but I have a bad feeling about these. His work is beautiful though.


^^

[Gem Stone]

I thought the fin was cute, but I need something with more propulsion for where I swim. but it is cute for someone who does dry events

[Mermaid Tasia]

I am not really impressed. I think it is because I don't care for that fluke design.

[Mermaid Danielle]

I think they look nice, and I like the colors. I'm looking forward to seeing reviews on these.

[Blondie]

To be honest... This an extremely innovated idea. :thinks:

So you can switch out silicone skins just like people do with fabric ones? Interesting! I want to see it work!

[Mer-Crazy]

The thing that would concern me the most is the fact that they're made with neoprin, which is a vastly inferior product to neoprene. Neoprene is a wetsuit-like material, high quality and generally won't stretch. However neoprin is renowned for stretching from the first use and it will keep stretching, meaning it has a short lifespan, it won't snapback like neoprene.

[Arella]

I think its an intresting idea that many people will like but it isn't quite my thing.

[MermaidBonnie]

I do that with my tails and so does Hannah. My white tail is neoprine and it has withstood mermaid adventures from Hawaii to Australia and many swims in between. It has not ripped nor stretched. Its not so bad of a product. Its even better than my foamorder neoprene that cost 4x as much and Ive already had three holes in it since its creation in May. And I had to create a belt bc the foamorder stretches alot. Im excited to see how these Mertailor skins work!

[PearlieMae]

I'm going to wait for reviews.

[AniaR]

I have personally had horrible experiences with neoprin.

[MerEmma]

Yeah, I saw he said neoprin too. At least he's being honest.

[AniaR]

yes. People can make their own decision that way :)

[Merman Arion]

The review finally came on Eric's facebook :

"Mertailor Mermaid Flipper Review by:

Brittany Trione

(PADI Open Water Diver est. 2000 ---- NAUI Rescue Diver & Dive Master est. 2006)

From my first-hand experience with swimming in the new Mertailor Flipper, I first want to say it is so realistic looking and incredible in every way! From the appearance on land to the movement in the water, they are top notch for a mermaid flipper! If you’re looking for that next new big thing, this flipper is your ticket. I like the idea of this flipper being a great alternative to wearing the tail, or even a large monofin. It’s great to work your core and legs without wearing the tail all the time. Let’s face it, mermaid kicks are a workout; engaging every muscle to glide through the water with ease. This can and WILL make the days when you wear a full tail A LOT easier! The color of the flipper has a hint of sparkle and looks amazing in the sun. I can only imagine how wonderful the custom paint jobs on future flippers will look like!

Propulsion: Moving forward underwater without knowing a fin is attached to your feet is a great feeling. I felt as if the flipper was just a continuation of my legs, which was a very natural and preferred feeling. When needed this flipper can get up and GO! Due to the soft silicone, it worked very well with fast mermaid kicks. It is just thick enough silicone to do the job! It was not delicate at all; instead it was durable and sturdy.

Buoyancy: I had no problem obtaining a natural streamline under the water with this fin. This wonderful flipper doesn’t tamper with my natural buoyancy at all while swimming forward or even staying still at the surface.

Weight (in and out of water): With a weight of approx. 10 lbs., the flipper is stress-free to carry. The ankle straps make an easy grab while out of the water. Of course, it is weightless in the water. You do not feel like there is a weight attached to your feet.

Flow and movement: I was blown away with how attractive the flipper flowed and looked underwater. The tips of the tail look like a Manta Ray as it goes up and down. This movement and the length of the fin provide easy, quick turns and maneuvers! Drag is none existent in this flipper.

Comfort: The ankle straps make this flipper easy to wear for any size foot. I think that is a great feature! The comfortable neoprene strap velcro around the back of your ankle and remains secure the whole time while in use. The slots for your feet are surprisingly comfortable as well however; you can wear diving booties as an alternative if desired. The silicone is very giving and soft on the feet. No blisters! With the velcro secured properly, your feet do not slide around in the slots."

[Merman Arion]

New update :

"Here is another shot just for you all facebook crazies of my NEW and IMPROVED Partial Silicone Mermaid and Mermen Tails. They will be available for purchase VERY SOON! And trust me, it is worth the cost! I have really put a lot of work and energy into designing this new product as well as the rest of Team Mertailor! The starting price is $795.00 plus applicable tax and shipping. Yes it is a little more than $530.00, but totally and completely worth it! The good thing is you can purchase the Mermaid Flipper first ($395.00) and purchase the scale body ($395.00) at a later date!! I am just very excited to have this amazing product available to you all!!"

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[Elle]

I just had a look at this on FB. My only issue with his flipper is that there doesn't seem to be a drainage point? all flippers (2 separate or monofin) have a way for the water to pass straight through them (thus removing drag)
if there is no holes at the toes won't they fill with water and possibly fall off?

[AniaR]

Honestly, I don't think it looks bad.

[Echidna]

Well, if the review is spot-on, it sounds as if this were a great choice for a tail monofin.

However, the Propulsion part of the review does NOT say it gives good propulsion xD
It says you don't feel like a flipper is attached to your feet, which I do not doubt at all :p

Soft, light-weight flippers that don't give you drag and let you turn easily and speedily have many advantages, but good propulsion is not one of them.

[Mermaid Zaffiro]

I thought the fin was cute for dry events, but this tails need something with more propulsion for swim in it

[Mermaid Star]

I am interested to see how he is going to attach the skin and the fluke portions while keeping them interchangeable and keeping the aesthetic of the merfin while not attached to a tail.

[OrcaMatt]

I like it. I thought platinum cure silicone couldn't cure on top of basically anything, though.

[PearlieMae]

I would think that the tail is probably attached at the bottom point and the fluke would slide in laterally and not attach to the fluke at all. I could be wrong.

[Mermaid Oshun]

velcro strips... well that's how I would do it anyway.

[OrcaMatt]

I would think that the tail is probably attached at the bottom point and the fluke would slide in laterally and not attach to the fluke at all. I could be wrong.Yeah, pretty much thought something like that too.

[Marie-Josie Cayer]

I think it`s an innovative product, it looks good and fun to try! Who said you can have a couple of different coloured skins to match up that monofin fluke? And it`s way lighter than a full silicone mermaid tail. Side seams will always be a concern but who said you could add some side fins to camouflage seams? Perhaps such option may be offered? Never know! :)

[MerEmma]

I'd it's neoprene lined (I didn't read if it was sorry) then I doubt he'd offer fins.
A couple different skins though sounds impractical at the price. =P
Maybe he's figured out how Raven & FishButts did/do their partials with the neoprene on the inside of the silicone.

[lynsea]

He said somewhere that there is some small clasp that connects the two tips of the skin to each other around the tail.

[Merman Arion]

While i think this new line of flippers looks good, i'm not really convinced if there isn't a good propulsion underwater. What are we supposed to do? Just wear them and be pretty? That would be all? I saw the video and the models were kinda slow while swimming with the flippers. Yet, they looked good with them.
I respect his art, i respect his ten years of experience as a tail maker but i still won't buy any of his products. Mostly because of what happened in the past and at this moment, i think his skills are dropping. The tails from his lastest updates are beautiful but they are showing an obvious monofin through the fluke. Same thing on Krystal's tail. If i were a customer, i would say that this isn't quite good. Am i wrong or his flukes made of silicone are becoming thinner and thinner? :confused:

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[Mermaid Lorelei]

Am i wrong or his flukes made of silicone are becoming thinner and thinner? :confused:
I've been thinking the same thing. I think he might be casting them thinner to save on silicone. But that's just me.

[Anahita]

I'm almost certain the fluke silicone is becoming thinner and thinner. I think there's two reasons why that's happening though; namely to cut down the cost to produce (silicone is $200 USD a gallon, so I'm betting that thinning out the flukes is the easiest way to make the profit better and the tails still not so outrageously priced that people shy away from them.) and the second might be because of the weight of the flukes. Maybe too many people were complaining about them and the tails being "too heavy" or maybe the shipping costs were getting out of hand and people were complaining? I dunno.

[Ariel-Starfish]

Yeah same here. You can see all the monfins in the flukes....

For the new line of flippers : I think it's cool for 13 year olds and stuff... But I have my concern that the productscare still lined with neoprin and not neoprene? :confused:

[Miyu]

I think they look alright enough (if you like mertailor's style), and I'm sure it will sell well among his fans who don't have the money for a full tail, which is awesome for them :) The tail skin kind of reminds me of fluke "panties", because the bottom looks kind of like underwear. :P I like it, and if I were going to ever buy from Mertailor (which I may in future if he ever gets everything sorted out), it would probably be this. I do like the silicone monofin; I'm not a big fan of his fluke style. But really, that's why we have so many tailmakers :D

I do like that it's affordable, and looks decent; that will make me happy when I see the influx of Mertailor fans who finally can afford a tail. I also really like the idea of being able to mix up the look depending on what colour fluke/tail skin you have.

[MermaidHyli]

Hey guys ill post.my review of.the partial silicone tail here after Tuesday
The most recent red on he made is the one I'll be wearing. I'm very interested and excited to see how it works. :)

[PearlieMae]

I've noticed the monofins through the flukes, and a general dropoff in the quality of his work, going by the photos I've seen.

I have theories, but I can't comment because it's just speculation. The new line is interesting, but I certainly wouldn't call them "affordable". I doubt the market will bear these high prices much longer, as new talent enters the tailmaker field. The only way to stay competitive is to up the quality and improve customer service. And that doesn't apply only to Mertailor, but all tailmakers

[OrcaMatt]

I'm almost certain the fluke silicone is becoming thinner and thinner. I think there's two reasons why that's happening though; namely to cut down the cost to produce (silicone is $200 USD a gallon, so I'm betting that thinning out the flukes is the easiest way to make the profit better and the tails still not so outrageously priced that people shy away from them.) and the second might be because of the weight of the flukes. Maybe too many people were complaining about them and the tails being "too heavy" or maybe the shipping costs were getting out of hand and people were complaining? I dunno.Cuts curing time, too. Speeds production and turnaround times.

[Patches]

It seems like a really good novel idea to me.
And it'll be nice for the people who want a nice looking tail
and don't want to pay 1,000-5,000 dollars for it.
Plus the fact that you can get different tail skins
and switch the color is really really cool.

[Mermaid Oshun]

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Fish tail fins are usually transparent and paper thin. I actually LIKE delicate looking fins. The 3" thick ones look unattractive to me. I think having a transparent strong fiberglass monofin inside like the competitor is a great strategy for thinness like fins found in nature yet strong like the competitor fiberglass monofin.
My only criticism would be for him to work on the border where the fiberglass cuts off for a smoother transition but leave the fin thin and natural.

[Merman Arion]

Honestly, since the fluke is actually the flipper attached to the partial tail, the whole thing has a better look (it's more defined in my opinion).
The difference of quality is here because his actual tails are showing the monofin through the fluke while his tails from the new line don't.

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[Mermaid Oshun]

And I personally think the new a la cart fins look like a childlike stiff piece of cardboard. It does not resemble any fish I've ever seen. No offense at all... I just LIKE the flowy fins with a super strong yet super thin silicone with fiberglass monofin inside.

The new ones are painted very well to make up for their stiffer appearance and give them the best appearance possible. But I still prefer the more organic flowy fins with striff strong fiberglass core.

[PearlieMae]

I would prefer a translucent fluke as well, but the solid flukes look good when they are consistent throughout.

If I had to have a solid fluke, I don't want the ends of the underlying structure to be evident. All the way one way or the other - solid or clear...otherwise it just looks bad.

[Anahita]

Cuts curing time, too. Speeds production and turnaround times.

Good point. I didn't even think about that (probably because I'm lazy and just leave my stuff in the molds all the time, lol!)

[AniaR]

My fluke is the thinnest silicone fluke ever made and you can't see monofin outlines. Just sayin

[PearlieMae]

What fin do you have in there? Is it modified? Merbella, right? I love how it moves in your signature gif.

[MerEmma]

She has a cut (I think) Finis Competitor. :D The gif is a bit choppy though so totally look at her YouTube<3

[PearlieMae]

Thanks, Emma!

[Mermaid Star]

Making Silicone thinner will not change cure times. They dont cure by air. It is a chemical reaction that occurs with in a specifie time. You can speed it up using chemicals or just getting the faster cure silicone. The Dragon skin comes in Slow, Medium, Fast and Very Fast. With Very Fast curing fully within minutes (all being the same price)! So the cure time is not the reason anyone would want to cast thinner (if using silicone. Latex and caulking is a different story). I think it is a weight or costs thing... or both

[Anahita]

Oh man.... I wish I had known you could buy something to speed up the cure time three months ago when my friend had her bachelorette party..... I could have procrastinated the ridiculous party paraphernalia even more. (I was just using the dragonskin I had already... Not really willing to have spend another chunk of money of a gag gift).

I'm glad to hear though that air doesn't play a part in the curing reaction though, because I'm always afraid that if I cast something too thick then I'll have a cured outside and goopy uncured inside (although, I guess I should have known better that it doesn't happen, because people cast all sorts of special fx stuff like arms and legs that are thick.... I guess it just didn't cross my mind until right now... lol!)

[Mermaid Star]

It is all good. If you need to speed things up again, you can check out the smooth-on website. They have some additives you can use to speed things up if you so choose in the future. :)

[Anahita]

Yay! I should actually give a call to the local distributor and pick some up some time this month just so I have it in case of an emergency....

Lol, emergency craft supplies...

[Oceana]

...I actually really like these!

[AniaR]

The flukes remind me a lot of the Adam Martyn style Fluke's that Chris C. Used to photograph over the past 10 years before mertailor.

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[MermaidHyli]

Hey guys,
So yesterday I had a shoot with Eric to model his new partial silicone line. They are really beautiful! For just being a partial silicone tail I think it looks as well as his all silicone tails. First we shot with just the monofin and scale bottoms. The bottoms are still in the making so they were a little small for me but I love the idea of..actually me and Kristi gave him ideas for a clothing line of scales ;p anyways back to the product. I had to wear neoprene booties because I have smaller heels so the strap tended to slide off. But once I wore the booties it worked great! He mentioned that they are working on designing a bootie to go with the monofin. Also he wants to put a smaller strap or make it an option for those with smaller feet as mine. I really really really loved how light it was and how it moved. Yes it may seem a little more floppy but I personally really enjoy that. It reminded me of a stingray and it was a smooth ride. There was little to no drag and I would just glide through the water. The second session we wore the skins. Mine was a bit long but he also made the skin and monofin within a week once Chris added me into the shoot. So I can't complain. I LOVED the colors and it moves just like my full silicone tail. The bottom attaches over the monofin and then you are ready to go. over all I really enjoyed wearing the product and I think Eric did a really good job on them. =]

[Mermaid Kelda]

That's good to hear! How was the propulsion?

[MermaidHyli]

That's good to hear! How was the propulsion?
I think it had good propulsion. There would be times that I need to slowly move for a pictures so all I needed to do was flex my ankles and I would go!

[PearlieMae]

Hey guys,
So yesterday I had a shoot with Eric to model his new partial silicone line. They are really beautiful! For just being a partial silicone tail I think it looks as well as his all silicone tails. First we shot with just the monofin and scale bottoms. The bottoms are still in the making so they were a little small for me but I love the idea of..actually me and Kristi gave him ideas for a clothing line of scales ;p anyways back to the product. I had to wear neoprene booties because I have smaller heels so the strap tended to slide off. But once I wore the booties it worked great! He mentioned that they are working on designing a bootie to go with the monofin. Also he wants to put a smaller strap or make it an option for those with smaller feet as mine. I really really really loved how light it was and how it moved. Yes it may seem a little more floppy but I personally really enjoy that. It reminded me of a stingray and it was a smooth ride. There was little to no drag and I would just glide through the water. The second session we wore the skins. Mine was a bit long but he also made the skin and monofin within a week once Chris added me into the shoot. So I can't complain. I LOVED the colors and it moves just like my full silicone tail. The bottom attaches over the monofin and then you are ready to go. over all I really enjoyed wearing the product and I think Eric did a really good job on them. =]

That's great to know! I like that he managed to turn it around so quickly as well. Let's hope he can turn his reputation around. Can't wait to see the photos!

[AniaR]

Interesting Hyli, can't wait to see the pics!

[Mermaid Danielle]

That's great to hear Hyli! I'm glad it went so well!

[Merman Arion]

pics are here

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[AniaR]

They look good but Chris always photo shops the heck out of his pics. You'd need to see customer photos and videos I think for a clearer view. I can see clone brush tool everywhere.

Hyli looks great tho!

[AniaR]

Though photo shopped or not so much better than the other versions for sure.

[PearlieMae]

They look great and could be fun tails, but when the waists are blended and the clone tool work is so glaringly evident, who knows what you'll get in the box when you buy one? The obvious Photoshop work only makes me distrust the final product even more.

[Merman Arion]

@PearlieMae

remember that picture? there is no photoshop there, isn't it? :confused:
This is the same tail as Eric. The products look the same despite the photoshop thing, right?

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[MermaidHyli]

Chris does blend the waist because he likes the look. But the photos on erics website should not have blended waists that should give you a better idea. I wouldnt write off a product just because people like to blend the waists. Ive seen many other mers do this, merbellas included.

Edit: That was not to make a jab at Merbellas, I still love Raven and her work. Just noting that I've seen blended waists such as their cover photo on facebook as a blended waist that is noticeably photoshopped

[MermaidHyli]

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See no blended waist =] This was taken off of mertailor.com
To be honest I like the non blended top better but that is just in my opinion. Eric also didn't know my bra size so it was a little big on me. Perhaps that is why Chris edited it.

[Ariel-Starfish]

Anyway: great pictures!! :D

[Blaze]

These are really cool! I like the look when the 'point' at the end of the scales isn't lined right up with the bottom of the fluke; is that an option you can chose or is it just how the scales are laying in each pic?

[AniaR]

Agree with Scarlett. You can also see the phitoshop out the wrinkles etc. Glad the website shows partially unedited photos. Chris has posted before and after shots Before. He's done boobs lol

[MermaidHyli]

They didnt line up because a piece was forgotten since Eric had to catch a flight at 2 am haha they are supposed to line up its just mine didnt because we didnt have an extra snap thats all

[Sammi Ray]

I like the idea but if he did other types of flukes then i would buy it. I think they are too wide and kinda fold in on themselves. But each to their own :-)

[Abyssalmer]

As far as I am aware, only one person (Hyli) has actually tried on the product so only one person should be able to express what they think about the actual product! You opinions about how it looks is fine but none of you can comment on propulsion or anything else revolving around the specifics of the product because none of you have worn it! Once I get one since he released it today I will be posting a review! I for one and very excited to buy one since it is the price range I have save up! So I wont even make my opinions known about the product until I actually try it! It's like you saying you dont like sushi when you've never tried it! You wont know until you do! Ever heard of don't just a book by its cover? Yeah that applies here.

And Raina, I think that anything involving Eric you should avoid because as you've said on more and one occasion you have admitted to having a SEVERE biased opinion against Eric. So if all you're going to bring is drama, trouble, and negativity I beg of you to please just leave it be and let everyone who enjoys his stuff, enjoy it and not have to say to ourselves, "What is SHE gonna say to that now?" Isn't it tiring? It is for me and I have other private messages showing others are as well. Isn't a community supposed to be united? This is a very disorganized community because everyone is out to get everyone and only looking out for themselves and hell bent on getting back at others that they believed have wronged them. Everyone is alive and kicking so it couldn't have been that bad! Right? Let's just move past it all and think positive?

When I get the product I will be posting a review and I cant wait to post videos!!!! :) But until then can we please just enjoy that someone is trying to better themselves and move past all the bad stuff?

[Abyssalmer]

Wow after reading that, that came off a little cliche... "Can't we all just get along!" or Chris Crocker-ee... "LEAVE BRITTANY ALONE!"

Oy vie!

[PearlieMae]

@PearlieMae

remember that picture? there is no photoshop there, isn't it? :confused:
This is the same tail as Eric. The products look the same despite the photoshop thing, right?

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There isn't any obvious retouching work in this shot...

I have no problem with retouched photos, hell, it's what I do to pay the rent! I was just saying I wouldn't want things that were retouched to the point of misrepresentation. I know some tail makers do blended waists, and I think that's cool. I just wouldn't want to buy one thinking I was getting something that was retouched to look like it was a seamless transition and be surprised when it arrived and wasn't.

I am ALL FOR reading reviews from actual owners and people who've had the chance to swim in them!

[Moongazer]

I'm really confused how the skins attach and stay connected to the monofin. Hyli are you at liberty to answer that?

[MermaidHyli]

Once you slip in the skin and put the mono fin on there is a strap on the inside of the skin that attaches over the monofin. If you look closely on Eric or Kristi's tail you can see it. He also has a hook design on the strap

[Blaze]

Once you slip in the skin and put the mono fin on there is a strap on the inside of the skin that attaches over the monofin. If you look closely on Eric or Kristi's tail you can see it. He also has a hook design on the strap

Oh yup I can see it now! :) I think i would suggest he give options on length of that strap so people can chose where that point will come to. GREAT idea though; I love the option for different color skins!!

[Sammi Ray]

I think anyone can say what they like. They have seen the videos and some people like the way it flows and some people don't. It does look to me like it has a lot of drag and would need to be extremely fit to use them (which people have agreed and disagreed). It's up to people to make up their own minds. It's personal preference about how it looks in the water. It's also a lot of money to invest in one and it does create drag for that person. Not like they can get a refund is it? All criticism good or bad is good. Because Eric should read these and make different shapes and thicknesses and prices. Yes this is his first one but listening to what people have said will gain him more business if he listens and designs more :).

The only thing I do like is the skins, very good idea!

And Raina has said nothing that the other mers haven't already said.. you can't just single Raina out because she had a bad dispute with him. :/ I don't really see why that was put on your post to be fair.

[AniaR]

Abysmalmer, are you seriously posting after we figured out you were an alt account???? Seriously???? You have no credibility on here anymore. Also, this thread is to discuss the fins! So that's what people are doing. Like they discuss everything else! Iona tracked your IP buddy! You also made threats against Raven and I the last time you posted, suspendable offence. (see the drama thread for context readers)

edit: I actually haven't said anything that critical of the actual tails, just that I wouldn't personally buy them. I was critical of Chris's photoshopping which he does on every photo, and I'm entitled to that opinion. In fact, I have said several positive things. It seems to me I'm not the one refusing to "let go". I am the one CONSISTENTLY trying to move on and make a good show of faith, but being screwed over, as this forum pretty well documents.

[Mermaid Myu]

Scarlet, I completely agree with you about the scale point going all the way to the bottom of the fluke! If he doesn't take suggestions or do custom "lengths" in that area, though, I bet it's pretty easy to customize at home. It seems like you would be able to move the "hook" mechanisms described by Hyli to a higher position on the inside of the tail skin, cut off the excess, and then buy a longer length of color-matching elastic (or get white elastic and dye it to match). While it would require some handiwork... certainly not impossible, and not a deal-breaker that would cause me personally to invest in a different tail if this one had literally all the other features I wanted.

[AniaR]

P.s. for anyone interested, the other discussion thread on this topic: http://mernetwork.com/index/showthread.php?6207-Mertailor-quot-Flipper-quot-would-you-buy-it&goto=newpost

[Ariadne]

Abysmalmer, are you seriously posting after we figured out you were an alt account???? Seriously???? You have no credibility on here anymore. Also, this thread is to discuss the fins! So that's what people are doing. Like they discuss everything else! Iona tracked your IP buddy! You also made threats against Raven and I the last time you posted, suspendable offence. (see the drama thread for context readers)

edit: I actually haven't said anything that critical of the actual tails, just that I wouldn't personally buy them. I was critical of Chris's photoshopping which he does on every photo, and I'm entitled to that opinion. In fact, I have said several positive things. It seems to me I'm not the one refusing to "let go". I am the one CONSISTENTLY trying to move on and make a good show of faith, but being screwed over, as this forum pretty well documents.

Amen sister! What a sad little life, bless his heart...

[Abyssalmer]

I'll say again, whats an alt account? how did I threaten anyone??? I just looked over everything i said and how did I threaten??? and what does my IP have to do with anything?

<<<Lost and confused...

[AniaR]

(warning, obvious drama, posted in reply because the person doesn't know how to access the drama thread apparently, or they'd have seen the replies last time around MODS FEEL FREE TO MOVE ALL OF THIS, I reported it so you can move it including my response to the drama thread)

That would be the last time you posted here (http://mernetwork.com/index/showthread.php?1513-The-Drama-Thread-(WARNING-DRAMA-AHEAD)&p=87206&viewfull=1#post87206)and the mods checking your account (http://mernetwork.com/index/showthread.php?1513-The-Drama-Thread-(WARNING-DRAMA-AHEAD)&p=87237&viewfull=1#post87237). Which you interestingly enough totally disappeared for afterwards.

Either way, it's been stated before, if you don't want to read people's opinions on something, then don't. This is posted in the mertailor discussion section, which is what people are doing. And everyone is actually being pretty objective and kind, considering the last bit of drama he pulled on some of us (http://mernetwork.com/index/showthread.php?1513-The-Drama-Thread-(WARNING-DRAMA-AHEAD)&p=87270&viewfull=1#post87270). Making a few observations about what we do and do not like about a new tail design, isn't drama. It's mernetwork... we talk about EVERYONE'S tails here. Constantly. If not, there'd be no reason for the site. It seems you're okay with people talking about it... so long as it's not me? But I'm not sure how hating on me in the forum has EVER stopped me from saying anything before, not sure why people seem to think BS like that will influence me now.

[Merman Arion]

There isn't any obvious retouching work in this shot...

I have no problem with retouched photos, hell, it's what I do to pay the rent! I was just saying I wouldn't want things that were retouched to the point of misrepresentation. I know some tail makers do blended waists, and I think that's cool. I just wouldn't want to buy one thinking I was getting something that was retouched to look like it was a seamless transition and be surprised when it arrived and wasn't.

I didn't say that you had a problem with obvious retouching work. I was just showing to you that the product seems actually good in real. :)


Abysmalmer, are you seriously posting after we figured out you were an alt account???? Seriously???? You have no credibility on here anymore. Also, this thread is to discuss the fins! So that's what people are doing. Like they discuss everything else! Iona tracked your IP buddy! You also made threats against Raven and I the last time you posted, suspendable offence. (see the drama thread for context readers)

edit: I actually haven't said anything that critical of the actual tails, just that I wouldn't personally buy them. I was critical of Chris's photoshopping which he does on every photo, and I'm entitled to that opinion. In fact, I have said several positive things. It seems to me I'm not the one refusing to "let go". I am the one CONSISTENTLY trying to move on and make a good show of faith, but being screwed over, as this forum pretty well documents.

I second that statement. :thumbs-up:


Amen sister! What a sad little life, bless his heart...

Couldn't agree more. The guy is acting like he's 12...

[Anahita]

Woah lordy.... Seriously? Again with this? Why did the account not get deleted last time around? lol.

[Ariadne]

I wondered the same thing. "What do you mean you can track an IP address? Just because I only appear to stir up trouble and the only posts I have ever made are antagonistic, as you can clearly read on my profile, doesn't mean I'm not a truthful guy! I just don't do geography well... I really believed Florida was a really big town in Georgia! Silly me...gotta go put on my "too dumb to live" shirt and go check out the hot babes at the beach...um, I mean the lake. In Georgia. Where I live. Really."

[Anahita]

I wondered the same thing. "What do you mean you can track an IP address? Just because I only appear to stir up trouble and the only posts I have ever made are antagonistic, as you can clearly read on my profile, doesn't mean I'm not a truthful guy! I just don't do geography well... I really believed Florida was a really big town in Georgia! Silly me...gotta go put on my "too dumb to live" shirt and go check out the hot babes at the beach...um, I mean the lake. In Georgia. Where I live. Really."

BAHAHAHAAAAA omg. That had me rolling!

[Merman Arion]

I wondered the same thing. "What do you mean you can track an IP address? Just because I only appear to stir up trouble and the only posts I have ever made are antagonistic, as you can clearly read on my profile, doesn't mean I'm not a truthful guy! I just don't do geography well... I really believed Florida was a really big town in Georgia! Silly me...gotta go put on my "too dumb to live" shirt and go check out the hot babes at the beach...um, I mean the lake. In Georgia. Where I live. Really."

That just made my day. :lol:
Ariadne, i love you :hug:

[Ariadne]

Aw, so happy for your smiles, my luvs! Sometimes you just gotta laugh a little...

[Merman Arion]

Aw, so happy for your smiles, my luvs! Sometimes you just gotta laugh a little...

Couldn't agree more ;)

http://24.media.tumblr.com/7cd641e5f40b8d8f5475f1f99877293d/tumblr_miu5qfubOJ1rmddzso1_500.gif

[PearlieMae]

I wondered the same thing. "What do you mean you can track an IP address? Just because I only appear to stir up trouble and the only posts I have ever made are antagonistic, as you can clearly read on my profile, doesn't mean I'm not a truthful guy! I just don't do geography well... I really believed Florida was a really big town in Georgia! Silly me...gotta go put on my "too dumb to live" shirt and go check out the hot babes at the beach...um, I mean the lake. In Georgia. Where I live. Really."

Thank you for that. I snarfed coffee out of my nose, all over my phone. :D

[Ariadne]

lol, so sorry for that, hon! I promise to buy you a brand-new coffee someday when we all get together for a swim!

[Miyu]

Heehee how true. That was awesome, Ariadne!

[FreshWaterMermaid]

For fear of being attacked, I don't own any mertailor products. But wow. This thread is starting to sound like a drama thread.
Raina, I do love ya gal, but when you post about Eric, it does always sound like the past is constantly present in your judgement of anything he puts out.
Which, to be honest, is understandable.

I start to feel like that girl on Mean Girls where "I wish we could all just get along" I mean, really, for a community of people who share a 'lifestyle' or 'hobby', and proclaim to be accepting of all, you'd think we could either all share our own opinions of ANYTHING UNDER THE SUN and be fine, OK, and unharmed by things expressed.
I just don't see why this is such an issue. And also if I had not known that this person created an alternate account, due to being 'blocked' (?) I would've taken their comment and moved on reading the other comments as usual, with no effect to my opinion (as we all have our own.).
I may be a bit tipsy tonight so if this post ends up being incoherent, I apologize. And also apologize if i'm stepping on toes. I honestly want everyone to just take a step back and be truly agreeable, have your opinion but don't push it on people.
*End drunken rant.*

Sent from my XT907 using Tapatalk 2

[AniaR]

Honestly, I think I already censor myself a damn lot when it comes to eric. There's a lot I'd like to say but don't. It can't always be that I'm never allowed to over my opinions and thoughts about eric lest it be considered "drama" when everyone else is allowed. These are the comments I made about his tails in this thread:


I have personally had horrible experiences with neoprin.
That was in response to several people posting before me about neoprin. I think I'm entitled to say that. It's true.


yes. People can make their own decision that way
Agreeing that at least since he's labelled neoprin, people will know. Again, a positive statement. Not drama.


Honestly, I don't think it looks bad.
A positive statement


My fluke is the thinnest silicone fluke ever made and you can't see monofin outlines. Just sayin
In response to people suggesting we can see through the flukes because they are so thin. Not really a positive or negative statement. Just showing it's possible to be thin and not see through. Not even a topic I brought up. Just in response to someone else.


Interesting Hyli, can't wait to see the pics!
No Drama there.


They look good but Chris always photo shops the heck out of his pics. You'd need to see customer photos and videos I think for a clearer view. I can see clone brush tool everywhere.

Hyli looks great tho!

Though photo shopped or not so much better than the other versions for sure.


First time in the WHOLE thread I show any criticism, and it's toward the PHOTOGRAPHY. And its AFTER other people have pointed out the exact same thing. And I made a point of STILL being positive.


Agree with Scarlett. You can also see the phitoshop out the wrinkles etc. Glad the website shows partially unedited photos. Chris has posted before and after shots Before. He's done boobs lol

This one came out garbled because I posted from my phone, but essentially agreeing with comments that were posted above mine.


It's not until Abysmalmer comes in and attacks me again, that things get even slightly dramatic. So seriously. What is this. Raina is never allowed to discuss anything mertailor related because it's automatically considered drama and she must be fishing to cause drama with him? Or how about, anytime Raina even pays the slightest attention to Eric, Eric responds with drama? Cuz seriously folks, there's nothing mean girls about anything I've said. There are several others here who posted much more criticism than I did. Golden Pearl as an example, a mertailor supporter, was pretty clear about her criticisms in multiple posts. Other people have posted much more than me in this thread. Freshie- I respect you and think you're wonderful. And I'm usually the first one to say, yup got carried away with drama move my threads. But I didnt start any drama in this thread. Abysmamer came in once again, singled me out (even though people were saying the exact same things as me and some even more) and suddenly it's Raina causing drama -_-

[Mermaid Octavia]

I was being perfectly reasonable and objective, stating that I liked the look and loved the paint job but the fin wouldn't work for what I want to do with my next tail is all. That's all I was trying to say.

[AniaR]

oh and I missed the one photo post about it reminding me of a previous shoot Chris had done. :/ The only other things I've posted on this topic were non-dramatic in response to being asked if we'd buy them over in this thread: http://mernetwork.com/index/showthread.php?6207-Mertailor-quot-Flipper-quot-would-you-buy-it and all I did was echo what everyone else already said, and went out of my way to show I wasn't being biased because I wouldn't go for Oceanika either. In fact, since January, I did not mention mertailor or respond to posts about him until last month when I realized he was sending me nice emails (and I was replying with kindness, helping him out when instagram users stole his stuff, insight into merpalooza etc) and then he was sending nasty emails about me to other people the entire time. (documented in the drama thread). I removed my reviews and documentation of his former harassment of me from tumblr in an effort to show I was "moving on" and went out of my way to avoid conversation about him unless it was in a positive light. And he took advantage of it. so now I'm just going to say what I think within reason of the forum rules- which is the same right everyone else on this forum has. And since I have "let go" 4 times now with Eric in an attempt to "move on" and always held up my end until he turned dramatic on me, I think I'm done with people telling me to move on and let go. I think I'm not the one people should be saying that to. I don't get my boyfriend to harass him. I don't rally people to some cause against him. I don't make cryptic fb posts about him. I don't encourage people to join menretwork for the soul purpose of hating on him or challenging him. I don't email or PM people the "truth about Eric".... I talk in context on a forum when he comes up as a topic, doing my best to stay within the rules, and I think I have that right just as much as any other member on here. Having any kind of history with him shouldn't mean I can't ever talk about current happenings. Would you expect the people Adam Martyn stole money from to never speak of him again and move on? Or suggest they're holding on to the past? The guy threatened and harassed people too, including Hannah Fraser and Melissa, who all came to me for help when it happened. He slandered them. Or what about Stevi? Should people screwed over by her a year ago censor what they say because she's working so hard to make amends with current customers? I guess what I'm getting at- is that I did that, multiple times, and now I'm moving on in my way which includes offering my thoughts on a variety of forum matters. (didn't get my 5000+ posts talking all about mertailor...)

[Coradion]

Eric's "monofins" that he's selling look like total crap. I saw them on his fb and made a comment, and got a snarky post about how he's a professional swimmer. As he's a "professional swimmer" I'd like to know which team he is paid to swim for, because that would make him a pro swimmer. I was a comp swimmer for 13 years and you never want to use a monofin like he has. The model he has swimming in it is struggling with the drag and her legs are being twisted in weird ways to compensate for a flimsy shape and material that is not hydrodynamic. That kind of weird torque on your knees and ankles plus the pull from the fin is horrible.

[Merman Arion]

Eric's "monofins" that he's selling look like total crap. I saw them on his fb and made a comment, and got a snarky post about how he's a professional swimmer. As he's a "professional swimmer" I'd like to know which team he is paid to swim for, because that would make him a pro swimmer. I was a comp swimmer for 13 years and you never want to use a monofin like he has. The model he has swimming in it is struggling with the drag and her legs are being twisted in weird ways to compensate for a flimsy shape and material that is not hydrodynamic. That kind of weird torque on your knees and ankles plus the pull from the fin is horrible.

I'm not a swimmer as good as you but i trust your opinion. You just made a good point.

[PearlieMae]

Maybe he thinks that making videos of the things he makes and sells, and by extension, gets paid for, is what qualifies him to consider himself a "professional swimmer".

You know, like me. I make and sell jewelry made from cut up book pages and that makes me an author.

;)

[Anahita]

Who was suggesting the midol? I have some cheese to hide it in. :D

Also, I pierced my own nose... and my sister's.... so uh... That totally makes me a professional body piercer. Lol

[Blondie]

You prove a very good point Coradion. I highly enjoy your input on the dynamics!

But you know, I think profession can be used in different ways. I don't think you have to be on a team, have a degree, or some certificate to be professional. Being a professional is just that you've done it so many times you're better than amateurs by a lot. You have a hobby/craft/sport that you are very good at and do it regularly with poise.

I mean, how many people in the mermaid community consider themselves "professional" mermaids. Does that mean you have to be on a mermaid team? Or go join a school of fish and get your degree in 'mermaiding'? ;)

Just some food for the thought.

[MerMarla]

I believe being a "professional swimmer" simply means what it says. Professional vs amateur, for example, in the horse show world, training or handling, even riding for a Farm or Ranch, means you are paid for what you do. Simply that. If you are hired to swim in a tail at a children's party, say it was your first gig, and were paid to be there, you are a professional swimmer. Amateurs don't get paid. It's just the way it works.

Mermaid Marla

[Echidna]

I believe being a "professional swimmer" simply means what it says. Professional vs amateur, for example, in the horse show world, training or handling, even riding for a Farm or Ranch, means you are paid for what you do. Simply that. If you are hired to swim in a tail at a children's party, say it was your first gig, and were paid to be there, you are a professional swimmer. Amateurs don't get paid. It's just the way it works.


Well, Eric WAS paid to swim :p
By your definition, he was absolutely in the right calling himself professional swimmer then.

I agree with Blondie, btw.
There are no degrees, and precious little "Teams", out in the mermaiding world.
Professional in my book means; you are paid, and you are good at what you do.

[AniaR]

Yeah Blondie and Marla hit the nail on the head. Professional is a pretty flexible term. I think the etymology infers being paid. However, I have a photographer friend who has in my eyes been a professional the entire time. He lives 100% from photography, travels the world, teaches, that sort of thing. But he refuses to call himself a professional because he feels the etymology of amateur applies to him better. Something about the root of the word meaning a great love?

Either way, in order for something to be safe for children I'm not sure about the USA, but there are actual standards and tests that have to be met in Canada before a product gets that label. That includes anything from how at risk using something puts a kid, and stuff as simple as the ingredients in the fin itself and the paint. Personally, I think so long as people understand what they're getting into when they order a fin like that- then it's their business. (and I feel exactly the same about the Oceanika ones, and honestly most home-made monofins) I just don't think in my personal opinion he should be pushing so hard to insist they're super fast and strong etc. Go with the strengths of the product, push how fluid and mermaid-like it is, how great it is for recreational mermaids and a good stepping stone to becoming a professional. Talk about the convenience etc. Hell, talk about the custom designs etc. Stop trying to convince everyone it does something they can see with their own two eyes it doesn't :p.

I don't know how Eric finds time to do it all honestly. I know several other tail makers who are constantly swamped and can never seem to take every order that comes their way, but he does that and offers a huge variety of products seemingly by himself.

[PearlieMae]

Raina, if your friend makes his livelihood through his photography, photographers consider that "pro". You aren't a professional photographer until you make the majority of your living through your photography work. There are amateurs, advanced amateurs, semi-pros, and pros. If your friend calls himself amateur, chances are he means it in the aesthetic sense. If he eats and pays his rent with it, that's pro.

I think the subtle differences here - in this instance - is that instead of being a pro swimmer competing on a swim team, he is a pro swimmer in that he - and other full time tail makers, actually - is really a swim equipment entrepreneur and swims to demonstrate his products. I don't know if he does paid appearances - but if he does, that woulda make him a pro merman, not a pro swimmer.

I know I'm splitting hairs, here, but I thought it needed mentioning for the sake of clarification. :)

[Echidna]

I just don't think in my personal opinion he should be pushing so hard to insist they're super fast and strong etc. Go with the strengths of the product, push how fluid and mermaid-like it is, how great it is for recreational mermaids and a good stepping stone to becoming a professional. Talk about the convenience etc. Hell, talk about the custom designs etc. Stop trying to convince everyone it does something they can see with their own two eyes it doesn't :p.

^^This.
Everyone can see it's floppy.
You either like that, or you don't.
You certainly won't be fast and strong with this compared to a regular Finis monofin, for example...
and I simply cannot believe it has no drag whatsoever, as he claims. :/

[Mermaid Mandi]

I think it's a little high for his new neoprene silicone tails but theu seem awesome to be I have one of his old neoprene silicone tails but when taxes come this year this one I will surly get it because it looks jist like one of the silicone ones but the only think I dont like about it is that the fin is detachable witch is personally dont like my tails like that bit hey its a change for one and plus I think the payments plans are good for a good start.:)

[Winged Mermaid]

He's officially listed the new partial silicone tails on his site. In the description it says, "Not only are they completely safe to wear, but are extremely durable with added Neoprene like backing for strength." "Neoprene like backing" = NeopRIN. Sorry, but I will always advise against buying any tail made with neoprin, no matter the tail maker. I really wish he'd just go back to neoprene already :/ The trouble of it is not worth the price difference. I'd rather pay $1,000 for a partial silicone made with neoprene than $850 for a partial silicone made with neoprin.

[Anahita]

It kind of bugs me that he's like, being super deceptive about the material. At least that's what it seems like to me. He won't even outright say it's neoprin, he tries to hide it by saying "neoprene like". If you're that ashamed/worried about your materials possibly losing you customers who will research them and find out they're cheap and not durable, maybe it's time to use the higher quality materials. I'm glad he's using dragonskin on the partials now, but it kind of took him a long time to hop on the boat with the rest of us....

[Kae]

uhm....back ON topic again....(it seems like so many of these threads degrade into merbashing?)

I LOVE the idea of an affordable tail. I want mers all over to be able to get the tail of their dreams. And these tails look pretty good.

Having said that I REALLY don't like these tails. They strike me as flimsy and hard to swim in. I also don't appreciate people who sacrifice good quality materials for sake of making it cost less.

I hope whoever buys one of these tails is happy with it. But I wouldn't touch them with a 10 foot pole!!

(P.S. I'm pretty sure that was the harshest review thus far)

[PearlieMae]

I'm curious if he is having them manufactured elsewhere?

[Mermaid Adriel]

The guy threatened and harassed people too, including Hannah Fraser and Melissa, who all came to me for help when it happened.

Did Eric do it? If yes, WHY? :o

[AniaR]

That was talking about Adam martyn.

[Mermaid Adriel]

ok, I misunderstood >.< anyway, why?

[AniaR]

it doesnt really have anything to do with this thread, it was a reference to something else and has been moved.

[MerEmma]

He's officially listed the new partial silicone tails on his site. In the description it says, "Not only are they completely safe to wear, but are extremely durable with added Neoprene like backing for strength." "Neoprene like backing" = NeopRIN. Sorry, but I will always advise against buying any tail made with neoprin, no matter the tail maker. I really wish he'd just go back to neoprene already :/ The trouble of it is not worth the price difference. I'd rather pay $1,000 for a partial silicone made with neoprene than $850 for a partial silicone made with neoprin.


Yeah, on the site he doesn't specify neoprin. But on his FB post...
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=701543703196548&set=pb.130816216935969.-2207520000.1379800140.&type=3&theater
(hopefully that link will work--he clearly says neoprin). I think there's a few other posts where he calls it neoprin.
I feel really sad for anyone who ends up purchasing it without doing research about neoprin...you would hope to trust a company as big as Eric's with materials and using the higher quality stuff at $800 a tail. I hope it's a typo, but I sincerely doubt it based on others' past experiences.

[Merman Arion]

Yeah, on the site he doesn't specify neoprin. But on his FB post...
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=701543703196548&set=pb.130816216935969.-2207520000.1379800140.&type=3&theater
(hopefully that link will work--he clearly says neoprin). I think there's a few other posts where he calls it neoprin.
I feel really sad for anyone who ends up purchasing it without doing research about neoprin...you would hope to trust a company as big as Eric's with materials and using the higher quality stuff at $800 a tail. I hope it's a typo, but I sincerely doubt it based on others' past experiences.

Some people will never learn...

http://static-mb.minutebuzz.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/Lee_Facepalm.gif

[MerEmma]

Was reading comments below.

"

Klára Cvijanovic (https://www.facebook.com/klara.cvijanovic) neoprin? why not neoprene?
August 20 at 5:26am · Like (https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=701543703196548&set=pb.130816216935969.-2207520000.1379800140.&type=3&theater#)
https://fbcdn-profile-a.akamaihd.net/hprofile-ak-ash1/s32x32/373162_130816216935969_572720733_q.jpg (https://www.facebook.com/mertailor)

The Mertailor Eric Ducharme (https://www.facebook.com/mertailor) Klára Cvijanovic (https://www.facebook.com/klara.cvijanovic) I do not like to use real neoprene as it does not stretch as much and it makes you float in the water. Neoprin is a VERY good material and comfortable. Regardless of what anyone tells you. "




/)_-

[Anahita]

I feel like Arion's above gif would totally work for how I feel about this....

[Merman Arion]

"The Mertailor Eric Ducharme (https://www.facebook.com/mertailor) Klára Cvijanovic (https://www.facebook.com/klara.cvijanovic) I do not like to use real neoprene as it does not stretch as much and it makes you float in the water. Neoprin is a VERY good material and comfortable. Regardless of what anyone tells you. "

http://24.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m3hc6p7TQe1r3ey0do1_250.gif

[MerEmma]

Kind of sounds like it. :S
It's so easy to see how much worse neoprin is as a material seeing Morticia's and Iona's and Raina's posts about it...seriously. It's just...rubbish.

Doesn't stretch as much...ha. Neoprene may not have as much stretch as neoprin but at least it'll stay the same stretchiness!

[Anahita]

Sure, it's stretchy, but stretchy doesn't mean shit if it has no elasticity... And neoprin has no elasticity.

[Merman Arion]

Let's pray, sisters...

http://31.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_mafgatnL8f1rgfnc9o1_400.gif

[FreshWaterMermaid]

Courtney Mermaid makes her tails out of neoprin and loves them. I honestly think it's a personal preference.
Myself, I've worked only with neoprene (and vinyl) so I cannot say either way from my own experience.

Sent from my XT907 using Tapatalk 2

[Anahita]

:rotfl:yes, let us pray.... "Je vous salue, Mer-ie (see what I did there? lol) pleine de grace...." Ok, I'm out, I don't know very many Western prayers, so I don't know how to properly parody one for merfolk. lol

[Merman Arion]

:rotfl:yes, let us pray.... "Je vous salue, Mer-ie (see what I did there? lol) pleine de grace...." Ok, I'm out, I don't know very many Western prayers, so I don't know how to properly parody one for merfolk. lol

:hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug:

[Seatan]

Considering that my wetsuits are super tight when dry then get a nice, comfortable body hugging feel going on once I enter the water, I would say neoprene is PLENTY stretchy for a mertail. it may be more difficult to squeeze into on land, but once in the water it makes for very comfortable, easy, free movement. No opinions one way or the other on Mertailor since I'm new 'round here and I don't really know anything about him, but neoprene is *plenty* stretchy once you get it wet and it keeps its shape.

[PearlieMae]

:rotfl:yes, let us pray.... "Je vous salue, Mer-ie (see what I did there? lol) pleine de grace...." Ok, I'm out, I don't know very many Western prayers, so I don't know how to properly parody one for merfolk. lol

I love how goofy you are!

[AniaR]

Im sorry, but you should see the state of my old mertailor neoprin tail. Mermaid Mimi owns it now, she's re-done it dozens of times AFTER Raven redid it. Neoprin might be fine if you're doing the occasional swim here and there, but we have proven OVER AND OVER AND OVER again that it is nowhere near the same quality of neoprene. It feels like a burlap sack and will continue to pull apart and stretch until it's filled with holes that simply cant be patched. I don't understand why he just can't be freaking honest about it. It's not like people aren't going to still buy them. I really think too many people don't even know there's a difference. And what's the "regardless of what you've been told" crap? How about what's been PROVEN.

Examples:
http://i942.photobucket.com/albums/ad266/thefineart/tailissues014.jpg
That's neoprene on top, neoprin on bottom. You can visually see the difference.

http://i942.photobucket.com/albums/ad266/thefineart/tailissues009.jpg
Neoprene on the left, neoprin on the right (it's been my experience that anything applied to neoprin warps after time)

http://i942.photobucket.com/albums/ad266/thefineart/tailissues013.jpg
An example of the type of stretching that produces holes

In addition, Mermaid Lexia made a really awesome post that includes video comparison to the two: http://mernetwork.com/index/showthread.php?3374

Just say, Neoprin is cheaper alternative for our clients, maybe offer neoprene for an increased price. Stop acting like the whole mercommunity has some conspiracy and we're all ganging up and lying because we don't like mertailor or something. -_- like, so tired of the debate. Just be honest with customers because 9 times out of 10 most of them will go for the neoprin anyway because everyone wants tails NOW and the want them CHEAP.

A lot of times people don't realize than when their wetsuit says neoprin it's because neoprin is being used as a SPACER material. Which is what it's intent is. I researched the heck out of this and published about it in my book as well, but Lexia even explains it right there in her thread. ANYONE can call a dive shop and ask them the pros and cons of neoprin and you'll get these answers, if people think it's all a magical lie. -_-

[Blondie]

Neoprene stretches. You just gotta work with it xD At first I didn't stretched much at all, but once it's wet it's no problem!

[Winged Mermaid]

Yeah, I own one Mertailor tail made with neoprene and one made with neoprin. At MerCon/WMAs all the other people who had his tails made with neoprin could not get over how nice mine (with the neoprene) was compared to theirs. The same goes for any other mer I've ran into with one of his neoprin based tails. They are seriously astounded at how much better quality it was, and none of them knew that thiers was made with neoprin and not neoprene. several people wanted to buy it off me despite the latex degrading. The difference between the two is huge. Elasticity (which can make fitting issues and a lot of people end up having to install a zipper to get it to fit right of they're not model skinny or have bigger hips. Plus the whole it keeps stretching out over time thing.), durability, drag, drying, ect. Sorry, but it's not a material I would ever recommend.

[MerEmma]

It really sucks that he won't use neoprene. =\ I wonder why? I kind of doubt he's really that worried about buoyancy, but I don't know.

[AniaR]

Neoprin is cheaper and more widely distributed. Perhaps he thinks since it has real silicone on top it'll prevent the stretch.

[mermaidsoph]

i think i like his old ones better

[MermaidClara]

hey thats my comment! my mother has been a seamstress/clothes designer for 20 years and im following in her footsteps, i saw the neoprin and i was like oh uh better ask why, my mother looked at the screen when i showed her his response and said bad words in croatian... oops :eek: i want some reviews of these from customers! its such a cool idea for the detachable skins! my friend and i adore the colour schemes, they'd be perfect for parades!

[MermaidClara]

oops i should clarify, thats my comment on fb asking why neoprin instead of neoprene, sorry to revive this thread from the dead i wanted to see if anyone had some reviews on the tail since im in the designing stages of mine!

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