Larkin & Smith English Gown Workshop - April 24th - 26th
Location & Dates: April 24th to April 26th. Saratoga County History Center at Brookside Museum, 21 Fairground Ave, Ballston Spa, New York 12020.
Friday - 1pm to 4pm, Saturday and Sunday - 9:30am to 3:30pm
In this 2 1/2 day workshop you will learn to construct an English stomacher front gown in a period manner using our Larkin & Smith English Gown Pattern. (You will need to purchase the pattern if you do not already own a copy. It will be mailed to you prior to the workshop. Choose your pattern size based on your measurement in stays.)
The en fourreau back was one of the most popular styles of gown during the 18th century and can easily suit a variety of impressions depending on choice of fabric and trim. The focus for this workshop will be on making gowns suitable to the early 1770s, with information on how to make an earlier style if desired. At the end of the workshop each individual will have a personalized pattern for re use and their gown well under construction. During the workshop, attendees will also have the chance to examine some of the original 18th century items in our collection.
- Students must come prepared with a cut and sewn mockup of the gown bodice. The first part of the workshop will cover how to adjust your mockup.
- Homework is required.
- Pre approval of fabric is necessary.
- Period appropriate stays are required to fit your gown. Students should plan to bring and wear their shift, stays, under petticoat, and shoes.
- Students should be familiar with basic hand sewing skills and have some knowledge of 18th century clothing and experience in creating a basic article of 18th century clothing. Knowledge of using a commercial pattern and/or making a fitted garment will be handy.
- Students will provide their own fabrics, notions and sewing tools.
Advance Beginner to Intermediate Level - Students should be familiar with basic hand sewing skills and have some knowledge of 18th century clothing and experience in creating a basic article of 18th century clothing. Knowledge of using a commercial pattern and/or making a fitted garment will be handy.
$295 per person. (PLEASE NOTE: An additional fee will apply if bringing a helper or if making the gown for someone else and they are attending the workshop for fittings. Please email ahead of registration for this option.)