MEET CHRIS TOCK
Christopher Tock is a designer, educator, author, and the creator behind Tock Custom. What began in 2013 as a self-taught pursuit in costume design quickly sharpened into a focus on precision menswear, pattern drafting, and approachable tailoring. Driven by a desire to make technical sewing transparent and accessible, Christopher brought his workshop directly to makers worldwide. First through live-streamed builds on Twitch, then through an extensive library of YouTube tutorials that break down garment construction into clear, repeatable steps. That teaching philosophy eventually made its way to the page in his published costume design book, offering a hands-on blueprint for creators looking to build their own custom projects.
Beyond digital tutorials, Christopher’s work centers on fostering creative community. He founded an international cosplay competition to spotlight the technical artistry of makers across the globe, and he has grounded that community focus locally by opening a hands-on sewing and arts center in the greater Milwaukee area alongside his brother, sister, wife, and family. Whether teaching a first-time sewist in the studio, designing bespoke apparel, or sharing technical drafting methods with thousands online, Christopher focuses on keeping the craft collaborative, functional, and within anyone's reach.
FAMILY OWNED
When Tock Custom Sewing & Arts Center grew from idea into reality, Chris brought in reinforcement from his brother and sister. David “Smock” Tock, CFO, and Kelly Pausch, COO, bring a wealth of experience and creative vision to the fold. Raised in Thiensville and Mequon, Chris, David, and Kelly are deeply proud to open Tock Custom in the community they grew up in. After spending parts of their adult lives living out of state, the entire family has returned to their Wisconsin roots and are so excited to come together in building a space local makers can feel supported and empowered in their creations.
Krystle Tock, Chris's wife, is an artist and true force in the creative world. She will be bringing the community studio to life, developing a special space for local artists of all kind. Krystle’s vision for the future gallery space includes featured artists, installations, and special events. You’ll be able to see these spaces in progress soon!
The family connection continues with Kelly’s son, Nate, who owns and operates Retro Capsule, a vintage pop up in Tock Custom and you can find her husband, Rich, around the shop on weekends. David’s partner, Sarah, provides additional operations and marketing support. The whole family is honored to be part of this incredible community!
DAVID TOCK, KELLY PAUSCH & CHRIS TOCK
CHRIS & KRYSTLE TOCK
THE WHOLE GANG! HUZZAH!
OUR MISSION
Catered to sewists, embroiderers, crocheters, knitters, quilters, and beyond - we strive to be your home away from home. A place you're excited to shop for supplies, have a laugh with Buster Wunderbutton (we have buttons!), grab a coffee in our customer lounge, and mingle with other makers. A fun place to take classes and learn new skills and share your own knowledge. Whether you're just starting out with your first ever project or you're a master creator, there's always a place for you at Tock Custom! We are an inclusive zone for all creators.
We are so grateful to bring this vision to life for our local creators and equally proud for it to be in the place we grew up. We strive to always be a positive force in the creative community and look forward to supporting our makers in any way we can.
See you in the shop!
- Chris, David & Kelly
TOCK CUSTOM SEWING & ARTS CENTER GRAND OPENING MAY 2026
THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO CAME OUT & SUPPORTED US AT OUR GRAND OPENING!
IN THE MEDIA:
