This type of workshop is focused on the study and making of historical attire, corsets and underpinnings.
All the workshops are a one-to-one class at the Elaine's Couture studio (please note: no video lessons or video calls) ; the difficulty level of each workshop is indicated in the description.
Each workshop begins with a lecture about the history of costume aimed at framing and comprehending the historical period/era, the necessary materials and/or techniques, and then moves on to the making of the garment / garments.
The participant will be assisted and guided through the study and process: from the pattern (drafted following historical samples and references), to each cutting and sewing step, up to the finishing touches.
To find out about the next workshops, see the calendar below; classes will stop over the course of summer (June-August).
For groups of students or academies/institutes/schools it is possible to organize the workshop in other labs or equipped workspaces: depending on the number of participants and the city in which it will take place, an estimate will be provided.
2023 Workshop calendar
-Early 17th century peasant shirt (Workshop ended)
-Early 17th century italian peasant attire (Reservation closed)
October - Early 1900's bathing suit
Throughout the workshop we will create the mock-up of an early XIX century corset and bathing suit.
After a brief introduction on the history of these garments, each participant will be guided in the creation of their own bathing attire.
The workshop is a one-to-one class of 18 hours (two days).
The participant will create the prototype of the swimsuit corset and bathing suit; after the fitting, each participant will refine and complete the patterns, create the preparatory drawing for the decorations and receive instructions regarding which materials and fabrics to choose to create the finished garments.
The workshop cost is 550 euro; the necessary supplies to make the mock-ups are included.
(Please note: the mock-up is made on the actual measurements of the person, it is not scaled-down: the participant will be able to actually check the fit of the garments)
The workshop will take place on the 21 and 22 October 2023 at Elaine's Couture studio.
For this workshop it’s recommended to already have sewing experience (hand sewing and machine sewing): all skill levels are always welcome, but if it is the first item you have ever sewed you will find it difficult to respect the class's schedule.
To book your workshop send an email at elainecouture.info@gmail.com
Reservation will close on 11 October 2023.
November - 1840's Dressing gown
Throughout this workshop we will create a 1840's dressing gown (or morning wrapper). After a brief introduction about the history of the garment, each participant will be guided in the creation of their own dressing gown.
The workshop is a one-to-one class of 24 hours (three days).
The participant will create the mock-up, the decorative quilting tests and the finished garment.
The workshop cost is 830 euro, the necessary supplies to make the mock-ups and the garment are included
The workshop will take place on the 4 -5 and 11 November 2023 at Elaine's Couture studio.
For this workshop it’s recommended to already have sewing experience: if you already have your 1840's chemise and corset you can bring them for the dressing gown's fitting, otherwise don't worry, the garment can be made and tried on even without the underpinnings.
To book your workshop send an email at elainecouture.info@gmail.com
Reservation will close on 23 October 2023.
