Regency-Era Handsewing: Make a Front-Closing Gown

This workshop guides students step-by-step through making a front-closing Regency-era everyday gown: choosing fabrics, taking measurements, reading and cutting patterns, and hand-sewing bodice, sleeves and skirt. Lessons combine demonstration, in-class steps and at-home work, with discussion of period dress variations and historical context.

Materials needed:

Students will need to purchase a pattern, fabric, and notions -

PATTERN:

https://blacksnailpatterns.com/en/products/empire-kleid-mit-frontverschluss-schurze-und-haube-um-1810-schnittmuster-0219-grosse-eu-34-56-pdf-download

I am in no way affiliated with this pattern maker. It has been chosen as a good combination of historical accuracy and ease of construction. This is a PDF pattern, and students should purchase, print, and assemble the pattern for the DRESS (we will not be making the apron or cap in class) before our first class, if at all possible! Students will be given the option of creating a long, 3/4, or short sleeve.

FABRIC:

Gown Fabric - 5.5-6 yards (mid-weight cotton or linen in white or a color of your choice -or- lightweight wool gabardine in a darker color)

Gown Lining Fabric - 1.5-2 yards (white or unbleached muslin or a light-weight solid to compliment)

Fabric Notes:

For everyday dress for most of the year, the 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 working women's dresses, as they hid dirt better.

There is excellent information to help you choose a 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 working woman's everyday gown in a darker print or more of a special day gown in white or a lighter print. If a student wants to make a cold-weather gown, a lightweight wool gabardine suiting is appropriate for the gown.

ADDITIONAL NOTIONS:

White Thread (or contrasting if the gown will be white!)

Thread to match any other fabric

3/4" Twill Tape - Enough to tie around your ribcage with a loose bow

1/4" Twill Tape - 2 yards PLUS enough additional tape to tie around your ribcage with a loose bow

*** ll yardage is approximate and has been rounded up.... The 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... but what is more important is that they are learning the skills to construct them, and they offer their best efforts. :)