Regency Era Dressmaking - A Sewing and Fashion History Workshop for Ages 10-13
This unique historical sewing class guides students through creating an authentic early 1800s girls' day gown, offering hands-on experience in hand-sewing techniques while exploring cultural and historical influences on fashion.
Heather Linke
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:(130)
What's included
8 live meetings
12 in-class hoursHomework
2-4 hours per week. Each week, students will be expected to continue working on their garments at home... How much time this will require depends on the speed of each student's sewing.Assessment
includedClass Experience
Step back in time to the early 1800s in this immersive, hands-on class where we will create an authentic day gown just like those worn by girls of the period. This course goes beyond sewing—it's a journey through history, culture, and craftsmanship. We'll explore the various dress styles of the time and delve into the cultural, financial, and geographical influences that shaped the fashion of women and girls in the early 19th century. This casual, conversational class has plenty of room for discussion and sharing. You'll be guided step-by-step through the entire garment-making process, from taking your own measurements and selecting fabrics to mastering fine hand-sewing techniques. By the end of the course, you will have created a beautiful historical gown and gained valuable skills in historical garment construction. Each week, we'll hand-sew different parts of the gown, starting the work in class and completing it as homework. No prior sewing experience is necessary—just a willingness to learn, some fine motor control with a needle and thread, and the ability to use scissors. However, be prepared for a lot of hand sewing and weekly homework to keep up with the class pace. While parents are welcome to assist with homework, they must remain off-camera during class sessions in accordance with Outschool rules. This course is listed under "Arts," but it also offers rich insights into history and social studies as we discuss the significance of fashion in the early 19th century. If extra help is needed to keep up with the class, additional private sessions are available via 1:1 tutoring with a $10/class discount for those enrolled in this class.
Learning Goals
Learn Hand-Sewing StitchesLearn Pattern Cutting
Syllabus
8 Lessons
over 8 WeeksLesson 1:
Week 1
Introduction to the project, pattern reading, and sharing fabric choices. 90 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Week 2
Learning basic stitches and beginning sewing. 90 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Week 3
Continuing work on the gown bodice. 90 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Week 4
Sewing sleeves. 90 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Parental Guidance
Students will be using sharp scissors, needles, and pins. They should have the impulse control and patience to work carefully with these items.
Supply List
Students will need to purchase a pattern, fabric, and notions - PATTERN: https://burnleyandtrowbridge.com/collections/kanniks-korner-children/products/kanniks-korner-girls-frock-1790-1820?variant=31792549625943 I am not affiliated with this pattern maker or the company selling it. It has been chosen for its availability and as a good combination of historical accuracy and ease of construction. FABRIC: Gown Fabric - 3 yards (mid-weight cotton or linen in white or a color/print of your choice) Sash Ribbon - 1.5 yards (4-6" wide satin ribbon in the color of your choice... ONLY needed for wear with white or pastel gowns) Fabric Notes: For everyday dress, for most of the year, fabric should be 100% cotton or linen, in a medium weight (not see-through). Linen/cotton blends are also acceptable. Lighter fabric weights and pastels or white were popular for spring and summer, especially amongst those who lead a more leisurely lifestyle. Small, darker, repeating prints were popular for girls of lower-income families, as they hid dirt better. There is excellent information to help you choose fabric here: https://www.songsmyth.com/fabric.html and here: https://ateliernostalgia.wordpress.com/2016/05/23/historical-accuracy-regency/ I'm also always happy to respond to questions to help you choose! Students may choose to make a more practical play/chore gown in a darker print or more of a special day gown in white or a lighter print. ADDITIONAL NOTIONS: White Thread Thread to match any other fabrics 2 yards of 1/8" wide tape for drawstrings *** Please note that all yardage is approximate and has been rounded up... actual amounts may vary based on individual measurements. STUDENTS SHOULD ALSO HAVE: Fabric Scissors Thread Snips or Embroidery Scissors Hand Sewing Needles in assorted sizes Straight Pins (and pincushion/magnet) Thimble (metal or leather are most authentic, but whatever is most comfortable for the student) Flexible Tape Measure Pencil PLEASE NOTE: I understand that truly authentic fabric can be VERY cost-prohibitive - especially for a first project! I never intend to make historic sewing beyond anyone's grasp by demanding exorbitantly expensive supplies. Historically accurate fabric is *wonderful* to work with, and I'm always going to encourage it if possible... but please know that there are truly amazing pieces that have been made from thrifted white cotton bed sheets, old curtains, and discount fabric! Choose what works for YOU and your budget, makes you happy, and feels nice against your skin. Remember that natural fibers are always cooler in hot weather and often hold up better when washed. I aim to help students create a historically accurate outfit... quality fabric helps the finished product look and feel the best it can. However, more importantly, they are learning the skills to construct them, and they offer their best efforts. :)
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined November, 2020
4.9
130reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
I've been sewing historical garment reproductions since I was about 8 years old and have over 18 years of professional experience working in various living history museums. Throughout my career, I've created my own period costumes, researched and written staff costuming standards for two museums, and drafted patterns from photographs and historic garments. Currently, I consult as a domestic and textile historian for the Great Smoky Mountain Heritage Center.Reviews
Live Group Course
$38
weekly or $300 for 8 classes1x per week, 8 weeks
90 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 10-13
3-6 learners per class
