Week Long Project – USITT Teaching Archive

Fabric as Inspiration

July 8, 2023July 8, 2023 cmetzger

Submitted by: Christianne Myers, University of Michigan

Abstract

As designers, when something is being built for the show, the very fabric can serve as a source of inspiration for the overall design of a garment. When a fabric has a bold pattern, it is the designer’s responsibility to determine with the draper how that pattern will “collaborate” with the style lines of the costume. How can the repositioning of the motifs change the mood and character of the look? What other trims or fabrics can join the “conversation” of the look? Let’s use this exercise to get the creative juices flowing and understand how the same source/inspiration can inform different end results. Using the provided fabric and the assigned mid-20th century dress, design two different looks.

Pet Pinafore Project

August 20, 2021August 20, 2021 cmetzger

Submitted by Ananda Keator, Idaho State University

Abstract

To teach students to take measurements, create simple pattern pieces from those measurements, sew a hem stitch, sew a gathering stitch, and sew a fold-over waistband (beginner only).

Intermediate stitchers can learn a two-part waistband, bagged out bib and “shoulder straps.”

Intermediate and Beginner Directions are listed separately.

Creating Costume Magic

March 9, 2021March 9, 2021 cmetzger

Submitted by Caitlin Quinn, The University of Minnesota Duluth

Abstract

Productions sometimes call for a “costume magic” moment – a costume requirement that calls for special planning during the design process. This could be an onstage super-fast quick change, a “rigged” costume which changes from one look to another, or a costume designed to drastically change the actor’s body shape (like stilts). Students are assigned “magic” moments within productions and figure out the design and function of the costume.

Clothes Tell a Story: The “J Peterman” Project

August 31, 2020June 22, 2021 cmetzger

Submitted by Christianne Myers, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

Abstract

This introductory costume design project invites creativity while disrupting the “fear of the figure” sometimes felt by students. Using an article of clothing, students write a story/situation in the style of the J Peterman Catalog and render the garment realistically.

Theoretical Millinery Research Project

August 27, 2020August 28, 2020 cmetzger

Submitted by Christianne Myers, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

Abstract

This research project introduces students to using digital museum collections, project management and budgeting. Using a museum artifact, students propose a step-by-step build process for adapting the artifact for stage purposes, provide working drawings, and source the materials with an estimated budget.

Pen & Wet Brush Rendering: Exploration of Light & Shadow

July 8, 2020July 8, 2020 cmetzger

Submitted by Inseung Park, Theatre & Dance, University of New Mexico

Abstract

This project is designed for our rendering course THEA 292 – one of the required courses for BFA design students. It helps students get comfortable with wet media and acts as an introduction to watercolor without fear. Students will create three thumbnails (about 8″ x 4″ in size), rendering a simple interior box set in perspective with a water based blue pen. After students finish a contour drawing with a blue pen, they add hatching for minimal shading. Then, the wet brush is employed to create impressive moods. During the process of this project, it would be a great idea for students to explore samples of artists’ paintings in varied art media to research how moods are expressed, and apply their discoveries into the rendering. Eventually, students will create three different lighting situations in three thumbnails.

Life Size Costume Timeline

January 27, 2017March 7, 2017 cmetzger

Abstract

As an overview of costume history, students spend a week in class recreating historic silhouettes out of tissue paper and other inexpensive materials to create a life size timeline. Students trace each other to create the initial body shapes.

A Pillow Project

November 18, 2015November 18, 2015 Christopher Plummer

Abstract

This project introduces costume construction processes and techniques through the individual construction of a pillow that covers most basic techniques common to costume construction.

Activity Objectives

Through the use of the machines and tools typically found in a costume shop, the student will be able to use a pattern, follow construction directions, to create a pillow that meets the following criteria:

Overall dimensions are 12”x12”
Corners are sharp and clipped
Straight seams are smooth & even, serged/clipped
Curved seams are smooth & even, serged/clipped
Matching: Print/plaid designs evenly line up
Matching: Pattern pieces match and align
Buttonhole is centered and even
Button is appropriate size and solidly attached
Zipper is well seated and hidden
The overall finished look of the pillow is neat and pleasing
(From the file: Pillow Project 1_Grading Criteria)