Textiles + sewing

FELTED + BEADED SILK CORSET

2024

This project was a collaboration with the talented Gwyneth Steiner. We designed and built the corset over only two days (an impulse sew).

1890s PERIOD BODICE

2023

In this project I excercised my abilities in fine sewing. I drafted the pattern to fit precise measurements, cut the heavy wool fabric so that the plaid pattern would align, and hand stitched the lining of the sleeves and the bodice.

I loved to excercise my creativity through the sleeves, the collar, and the hem. It was incredible to get a deeper understanding of how historical clothing was made, and this process has influenced my approach to design in a major way.

1/2 SCALE 1670s GOWN

2024

This was my recreation of the gown in Salome with the head of John the Baptist by Carlo Dolci. It was a complete practice in historical study, and fine sewing. Nearly every seam had to be hand sewn, I learned how to deal with incredibly slick velvet, and gold thread. I also dyed her (previously pink) underskirt to be a beautiful sky blue.

I draped this entire pattern for myself.

I built her petticoat understructure, the mannequin arms, and her necklace.

My reference image is included in the carousel to the right.

PERIOD DOUBLET

2023

This was a massive step for me as a cutter/stitcher. I chose to work with upholstery fabric, and my friend used the other side of the fabric so we would match. I cut my own bias, I rigged it with loads of seam allowance, and quick change closures.

The collar is adjustable with a drawstring through the trim, and it is fully boned with over 15 tightly sewn boning chanels. Another cutter (Sealynn Cummings) drafted this pattern to fit me and I drafted one to fit her.