The Learning Circle

Making an Empire dress that really fits can be difficult; making one that is flattering can be nigh on impossible! In this specialized pattern drafting course, each participant will build a set of basic pattern pieces ("slopers") for an Empire dress that fits them exactly. They will then learn to draft several different period garments and variations of garments from these basic slopers. This is the perfect course for the 1812 re-enactor frustrated by the small range of period garment patterns available commercially. To ensure best fit, we begin from a modern, dart-fit shell pattern and work back to an accurate Regency model with period construction lines and techniques. Participants work in pairs to ensure that everyone gets the experience not only of getting great fit, but of learning to fit properly on someone else's body. Participants are requested to bring coloured markers, a sewing machine, a commercial fitting shell pattern in your approximate size, 5 sheets of bristol board, fabric scissors and paper scissors, 5 metres muslin or stable lightweight scrap cloth (non-stretch), thread, and pins. Please also wear tight-fitting clothing and bring any Empire undergarments (corsets, etc.) that you wish to have "built in" to your sloper.