Rome's papal tailor prepares a cassock for the upcoming conclave

Raniero Mancinelli, an experienced tailor from Rome, is sewing a cassock for the future pope, who will be chosen at the conclave beginning on 7th May. His small tailor shop, run with his family, is located on Borgo Pio Street, near St. Peter's Square.

What fabrics does the papal tailor choose?

Mancinelli explained that about five metres of fabric is needed to make the cassock, including the cape.

The papal tailor, as cited by the ANSA agency, explained that for this occasion, he selected a lightweight wool fabric weighing approximately 220 grams per square metre. He also noted that a similar material had previously been worn by Pope Francis.

Mancinelli pointed out that while the material isn't particularly luxurious, it is made from pure Italian wool. He also mentioned that the cassock traditionally features 33 buttons, symbolising the number of years in Christ's life.

- Recently, we have slightly reduced that number to make it easier to put on and take off - he admitted.

What is the process of sewing a cassock like?

The tailor noted that sewing the papal cassock takes five to six days. - Making these three robes, the day he goes on to the balcony, I think that (one of them) should fit well, pretty well, if not perfectly - he emphasised. The new pope will find these cassocks in the sacristy of the Sistine Chapel, known as the "Room of Tears" because of the emotional moment of the conclave's decision.

Mancinelli has extensive experience in sewing for popes. - Thank God I got to serve many priests throughout the years, monsignors, bishops and many cardinals. Then I also served three popes, making the white robes, (for) John Paul II, Benedict and Francis. For Francis obviously, (it had to be) not too expensive, not valuable, a normal textile - said the tailor, who has been making garments for the clergy for 70 years.