Tutorials

Sewing tutorials to advance your costuming skills or refresh the basics.

A Fancy Ribbon Rose 

How to Make Ribbon Bows

Stroking the Gathers

Inserting the Stud Side of a Corset Busk

Hand Stitches:

The Slipstitch

Thread Loops

Bodice & Skirt Connecting Hooks

How to Grade Seam Allowances

How to Make an 1870s Bustle Skirt

How to Sew Cartridge Pleats

Making Perfect Pleats With the Perfect Pleaterâ„¢

What is Understitching?

Glossary – A brief list of historical sewing terms and techniques as well as period and modern fashion terms.

How Can We Help You Be Successful in Your Historical Costuming?

If you’d like to see a tutorial on a specific aspect of 19th Century historical sewing and costuming please contact us.

20 thoughts on “Tutorials

  1. Christine Armstrong says:

    Hello Jen,
    Will you do a tutorial on simple ribbon closure for a regency gown? Mine is not gathered at the neck to the high waist; rather, it has a a fitted neckline and is fitted at the waist with a pleated skirt. Thank you.

    • Jennifer Rosbrugh says:

      So, do you merely need to close it in the back? Even without a drawstring it’s entirely doable and easy.

      Use twill tape or grosgrain ribbon (cotton or linen twill tape recommended) in a 1/4″ width; Fold under one end and securely sew (hand tacking is best) to the inside of the dress at the neckline and waist. A third set can be sewn halfway between neck and waist. Use about 12-14″ lengths for each side and trim if necessary. When dressing, tie the sets at neck and waist; ribbons will be seen but are not inappropriate for the era.
      Hope this helps!

  2. Mary Young says:

    I would love to see an article or tutorial on how to modify a front bodice pattern for a large bust, where the front and side back are all part of the same pattern, I.e., there is no side seam. More length and possibly width must be added to the front, but not necessarily to the sides or back, but hard to do when the side back is part of the front bodice, as is the case with many period women’s bodices, and some men’s waistcoat patterns too.

    • Jennifer Rosbrugh says:

      I would look at “full-bust adjustment” (FBAs) online and in books. Sandra Betzina’s Fast Fit book is one of my favorites for enlarging a bodice front for my large bust cup (DDD). Since FBAs only slice from armhole to apex then down to hem, it won’t/shouldn’t affect the side back area at all. If it does, take in any excess into one of the front darts or pinch up the side back seam.

  3. Dianne Turner says:

    I’vejust found your wonderful page and already I’m envisioning all I’d love to make. What period dresses would have been worn during the time of King Henry’ reign please? Do I apply these same techniques you’ve already mentioned to sewing for small girls (size 1-2) please?
    Thank you so very much.

    • Rosie says:

      I’m guessing you mean Henry the Eighth…check out Prior Attire, she has Tudor fashions. Her blog is called “A Damsel In This Dress”.

  4. Paula Gardner says:

    Jennifer,

    Can you post a tutorial on how to make a scolloped hemline that is so common on historical fashions? Thanks

  5. Kim Johnson says:

    I love your site. I will be attending a college in the fall for their Costume Cutting and Design program. I have learned so much already. Please keep it coming. Thank you again.

  6. Sally Krouch says:

    Hi Jennifer, Did you get my email about a tutorial on reading Truley Victorin Bodices patterns. Hope to size it is what I need. Thanks Sally

  7. Susan Zimmerman says:

    Love your site. I’m learning historical costume design sewing for my 15″ dolls – same techniques but adjusted for tiny figures that require thin fabrics and tiny patterns. I grew up reading historical costume books for fun…! Thanks for the insiration and motivation.

    Susan

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