We are excited and thrilled to teach this comprehensive 18th Century series. Inspired by the American Duchess Book by the incredibly knowledgeable Lauren Stowell and Abby Cox.

Our very own Mela Hoyt-Heydon will cover many of the techniques taught in the American Duchess book along with her own techniques developed from years as a Union Costume Designer and Historical Costume Creator. 

This series will cover traditional 18th century clothing beginning with undergarments including; shift, stays, petticoat, and bum pad. Finishing with an Italian style gown. 

You may take the classes separately or take the entire series. 

This class will cover making a stay. It will be taught on 3 separate Tuesday evening classes.

Stay/s is the term used for the fully boned lace bodices worn under clothes from the late 16th century until the end of the 18th century.  Before this boned garments were called (in English at least) a ‘pair of bodies’ eventually stay/s transitioned into a corseted silhouette. Stays turn the torso into a stiff, inverted cone, raising and supporting the bust, and providing a solid foundation on which garments can be draped and pinned. It is an essential piece to create an 18th century silhouette.

Class time: 3 sessions, 3 hours each class        

Maximum class size: 8 people

Supplies needed: A supply list will be sent once you have registered. 

Prerequisites: Introduction to the Sewing Machine and Beginning Sewing or basic sewing skills     

Fee: $100.00 for 3 sessions