Build a ballgown bodice for this season’s balls!
We’ll measure, draft, fit, and trim a bodice that will turn heads and eyes green. We’ll focus on how to alter patterns and fit to your form, sewing techniques and historical methods, and creating something you will be excited to wear and proud of. Historical style patterns will be used. We will focus on the construction of the bodice, fitting it, and correctly wearing it.
If you have a corset you plan to wear under this bodice, we recommend you bring it to class for measurements and fittings.
As always, our workshops include a tea lunch both days and wonderful community. Registration is limited to 5 students and spaces fill fast.
If you are a DVSS member, message us for a coupon code for a discount on your registration.
We’re excited to see you!
Students that might not be confident sewers: If you can sew a straight seam, sew a curved seam keeping the seam allowance even, and are familiar with troubleshooting your sewing machine, you will do wonderfully. If this doesn't sound like you yet, consider taking our machine basics class in November at Arapahoe Community College which will prepare you for this class.
Materials and Items you will need to bring with you:
Your sewing Machine
Measuring tape
Thread, needles (for your machine and hand sewing)
Scissors for fabric and scissors for paper
Fabric marker or pencil for marking on fabric
Pencil for pattern tracing
Ruler
Pins or clips to hold parts together
Pattern tracing paper (I recommend Swedish tracing paper or Pellon 830 easy pattern tracing paper)
Fabric* for dress and mock-ups (and trim if you plan on trimming with fabric)
Notions such as buttons, boning, and dress hook and eyes
Corset for fittings if you wear one (and we hope that you do!)
Lara Beckwith has been a professional seamstress and tailor for the better part of 20 years. She comes from a long line of professional seamstresses and quilters and has been sewing her entire life. She started making historical clothing at the age of 3 by sewing her own moccasins. She frequently presents on historical textiles and patterning at Whimsy Con and has been honored with many first prize places for her gowns and tailoring creations.
She is a librarian in her day to day life and enjoys finding resources and teaching people how to research.