“TO CUT THE PERFECT SHAPE: The fundamentals of cutting and fitting to the figure"

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. 

In this 2 ½ day workshop, led by Brooke Welborn, Mantua-maker, you will:

• Learn the shapes needed to cut bodices and sleeves from 1750-1800. 

• Discuss, analyze, and observe fitting figures of various types and learn how to manipulate fabric over the complex three-dimensional topology of the human torso. 

• Work in pairs to practice cutting the shapes and then learn to adapt these basic shapes to different styles and decades. 

Students will not leave the workshop with completed gowns, but rather with a set of fitted shapes and an understanding of the basic techniques and mechanics which they can then adapt to their own dressmaking projects.

This class is intended for those new to 18th c. mantua-making or those wanting more practice in cutting to the figure. All participants must have a shift and well-fitting 1750s-90s stays!

This is an Intermediate Level 2 Workshop 

*Please read Level Requirements before registering 

Cost of this 2 1/2-day workshop is $325* 

which includes muslin for fitting. 

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.