Costume Design and Make: Victorian Dress 1

About this course

Participants investigate Victorian dress and use historical research to develop a period-inspired menswear or womenswear design. The project is shaped in consultation with the tutor and progresses from initial ideas to a full-scale costume. Teaching combines whole-class instruction, demonstrations, discussions, technical material and individual guidance. The practical work covers flat pattern cutting, draping, period-appropriate construction methods, and the use of interlinings and understructures to create historical silhouettes.

What you'll learn

• Analyse historical research to inform a period-inspired costume design
• Develop period-appropriate pattern shapes through flat pattern cutting or draping
• Apply construction methods appropriate to the chosen historical period
• Use interlinings and understructures to support a historical silhouette
• Construct a full-scale costume from design through to completion

Is this course right for you?

This intermediate course is intended for learners who already have established sewing and pattern-cutting skills. Participants work on an individual costume project while taking part in whole-class teaching, discussions, demonstrations and one-to-one feedback. Class activities can involve standing at high tables for periods of time.

• Previous competence in sewing and pattern cutting is required
• Learners should be able to use a sewing machine confidently and complete a garment with closures and finishes
• The course involves developing and making an individual costume design
• Teaching takes place in a shared, collaborative studio environment

Before you go

• Participants must provide their own fabrics, haberdashery, threads and related project materials once the design has been agreed.
• A basic sewing kit and pattern-drafting kit are required, including fabric scissors, pins, a tape measure, hand-sewing needles, sewing threads, pattern curves, pencils, paper scissors and masking tape.
• Pattern paper and card are available in the studios, and some pattern-cutting tools are provided for studio use.
• Activities can involve standing at high tables. The studios are on the first floor, with lift access.
• Health and safety induction is required before using machinery or specialist equipment.