Costume Making Short Course
Course description
Course overview
During this course, we will be looking at men's and ladies’ 18th century costume, focusing on the 'Robe a la Francais', especially the bodice, skirt, stomacher, sleeves and collars. The dress will be taken to 'Toile' stage and all be worked in Calico fabric, which will be provided. There might also be time to look at other costumes of the period.
Initially making a corset-shape to transform the mannequins into an 18th century silhouette, you will be taken through the process of cutting a dress pattern on the stand and explain the methods needed to complete the costume.
Calico fabric (provided) will be used throughout the week and concentrated on getting one or more toiles completed. There will be opportunities to venture into men's costume and other useful skills including frogging and boning.
Who this course is for
This course is suitable for anyone interested in costume making, regardless of prior experience. Beginners with basic sewing skills are welcome, as are those looking to expand existing knowledge.
Key information
Topics covered
- The role of the Costume Maker
- A general look at 18th century fashions.
- Reshaping/sizing the mannequins in preparation for pattern cutting
- Cutting and making a corset shape to transform the mannequin into an 18th century torso
- Cutting an 18th century ladies dress on the stand
- Making up the dress to toile stage using calico with discussion on how to finish the costume
- A demonstration of cutting an 18th century man's frock coat and description on how to finish it
- Some time for the student to explore their costume making and one or both demonstrated techniques
- Advice on problems the students have found during their costume making experience
Learning outcomes
- Ability to identify costumes from all periods of the 18th century
- Build confidence to make a pattern from a design and have the knowledge of how to complete it
- Digital badge and certificate of attendance
Materials
- Small sewing kit, including scissors, needles and pins
- Pencil
- Pen
- Ruler
Tutor
Lisa Keating-Best
Lisa Keating-Best studied at Fashion and Textiles at the University of West of England and Falmouth University studying a Masters in Illustration and Communication. She has twenty years of Design experience spent in the garment industry as well as thirteen years as a Corset specialist and bridal wear designer and maker. Lisa then moved into Teaching garment construction and pattern cutting in Higher Education after running Corset Making short courses for over twelve years. She now works as a specialist Garment Technician at Central Saint Martins where she can share her knowledge and skills with the Designers of the future.
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