Build a Banyan: Use, Structure, & Construction of 18th Century Banyans

Friday afternoon, October 24th - Sunday, October 26th

This workshop will focus on the fitted style of informal attire often called a banyan - its origin, structure and use. Believed to have been introduced to Western Europe from the Far and Mid-East during the early modern period, these garments served as an alternative to coats in less formal spaces. Known to original wearers by terms, including India gowns, wrappers and banyans, surviving examples are constructed of both figured silks and printed cottons.

This  2 1/2 day  workshop, led by Brenda Rosseau, participants will:

• Examine via an illustrated lecture the origin, styles, terminology, fabric, trim choice, and cultural significance of gentlemen's robes.

• Learn how to measure for, pattern, and cut a fitted gown based using the full-scale B&T Pattern (developed from an amalgamation of extant pieces). 

• Cut, fit, style, and practice period appropriate construction techniques upon their gown. 

• Engage in some “homework” on both Friday and Saturday nights.

By the end of the workshop, participants will have their gown well under construction, and will have the knowledge to complete it on their own

This workshop is an INTERMEDIATE LEVEL 2. Participants are expected to have good hand sewing skills and experience in creating an article of 18th century clothing using a pattern, and have fitted that piece of clothing. Please read more about our current  Workshop Levels here.

Workshop cost of $325 includes: 2 1/2 day workshop and muslin for fittings.

Participants wishing to bring a "model" to make this garment will need to pay an additional $50 fee.

Class size will be limited to 12 Participants

*CANCELLATION POLICY

Because of the nature and enrollment limitation of our workshops, we regret that we are unable to give a full refund for a cancellation.  If you cancel 30 or more days prior to the workshop, we will refund your fee less a $50 cancellation fee. If you cancel less than 30 days prior to the workshop, we will have to charge the full amount of the workshop unless we are able to fill your slot, in that event you will be charged only the $50 cancellation fee.  In the event of the workshop being cancelled we are not responsible for any costs by the attendee for cancelled reservations.