Burnley & Trowbridge Co.

Eighteenth century mantua-makers produced most women's fitted gowns and jackets by cutting and fitting to the body. One method used in the period was to cut a lining to the figure, which could then be used to inform the shape of the desired gown. The “shapes” created by this process made up a perfectly fitted pattern for the customer and could be reused and adapted - to speed the sewing of future gowns of the same - or even other styles. The purpose of this workshop is to teach the fundamentals of cutting and fitting to the figure. 

Friday October 3rd-Sunday October 5th

In the late 1980s, T. Marshall Smith attended his first Revolutionary War Reenactment in Yorktown, Virginia and joined the First Virginia Regiment a short time later. This was the spark that began a decades-long love for historical reenacting and costuming.

Attaining the rank of Quartermaster, Marshall became interested in reproducing eighteenth century attire, and became quite the tailor. His specialties were coats for both officers and civilian gentlemen.

On a visit to London in 2017, Marshall was able to further his knowledge of eighteenth century clothing by studying extant garments in the collection of the British Museum.

One of Marshall's final projects before his passing in April 2024 was completing colonial attire for his young grandchildren, as seen in this lovely photo.

We at Burnley & Trowbridge were honored to get to know Marshall and call him a friend, since he had been a regular student of our workshops from the time we began offering them in 2002, until shortly before his passing.  

Marshall curated a large collection of fabric and notions for planned projects. In offering the T. Marshall Smith Collection here for sale, our hope is that others will continue Marshall's love for history, and passion for reproducing eighteenth century clothing.

All Proceeds from the sale of these items will be put toward a Burnley & Trowbridge Scholarship Fund.

Join Angela Burnley & Brooke Welborn for our new monthly virtual sewing circle where you will have a chance to chat about sewing projects, learn about new fabrics, ask your questions, and have a (virtually) good time with fellow sewing enthusiasts.  

Just learning how to sew, or brushing up? This is the channel for you! Quick and concise, we know you'll love these tutorials!