Bodice Design, Patterning, and Construction

Current Format: 2 Days
2010 Availability: TBA
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This seminar teaches basic bodice design and patterning techniques, as well as how to make custom alterations to your pattern.

The class will take you step-by-step from initial design all the way through to a completed and 'ready-to-perform' 8-piece bodice.

Students will work through each step, beginning with the initial pattern-design and working toward the final construction of an already proven and sophisticated pattern, designed by Ms. Cheryl Beasley.

To get the most out of this seminar, you really should take measurements on a specific dancer, and plan on fitting the bodice to her. We'll provide the Measurements form during registration.

On Day 1, we will design the bodice, create a costumer's 'muslin' (out of muslin, naturally), sew it together, and then work on perfecting the fit using a body-form and the measurements you bring with you. When satisfied with the design, sizing, and fit, you will take your muslin apart, and draw the completed pattern on Oak Tag.

On Day 2, you will cut the design out of your lining and top fabric, then put the bodice together.

You will bone the bodice with steel spirals and bone casing, and finish the top and bottom edges of the bodice with bias tape or with cording (or elastic cording) that you will make yourself out of either the same or a contrasting fabric. You will learn how to finish the top and bottom edges between the side seams to allow for easier alterations.

When this seminar is over, you will have created a very successful and sophisticated pattern and bodice, and learned all concepts and techniques needed to create nearly any other bodice design in the future. These skills and techniques will prove invaluable on a great many projects for many years to come!

We provide a basic industry-standard-size 'sloper' or 'block' that can be used to design multiple bodice styles, from the simplest to extremely complex - the sloper is yours to keep and re-use to design many more bodices.

We also provide all the muslin, lining, and top fabrics, as well as all boning, bone casing, and other materials. We supply 100% cotton coutil for the lining and white bengaline for the top fabric, but you can bring your own top fabric if you prefer (you will still receive our fabric to use in the future - sorry, no discounts for bringing your own fabric).

If you are also taking one of our other seminars, like Tutu Construction, Advanced Tutu Project, Spanish Skirts, etc., you can request a top-fabric color to go with your other project - please make a note on the Bodice Design Options form.

The course is designed to work in conjunction with our 'Classical Tutu Construction', 'Advanced Classical Tutu Project', 'Romantic Tutu Construction', 'Fashion Romantic Tutus', and 'Spanish Skirt' seminars.

Return to Seminar Descriptions.