Abstract
Students create a quilt sampler composed of 12 fabric squares to demonstrate a variety of hand-sewing and machine-sewing techniques learned in the first class sessions of Costume Construction class.
Ten Periods Costume History/Design Project
Abstract
Students choose an individual character and provide research for clothing that character would wear in each of ten separate time periods.
Disney History Project or “Period Princess Project”
Abstract
Students attempt to accurately place an animated Disney film within the context of Theatre History using primary research sources.
Describe and Draw
Abstract
Students new to costuming attempt to describe the clothing worn by a person in an image so that the instructor can accurately draw the clothing on a figure. I do this in real time on the white or chalkboard on the first day of class.
Style Tribe Choices in Historical Context Project
Abstract
The style tribe project is the cumulative project in a combined undergraduate/graduate Costume History course. The project asks students to connect modern fashion movements to past styles. A style tribe is a social counterculture that has a defined style of dress that differs from societal norms. An example of a style tribe would be the Teddy Boys in 1950s Britain. For this project, students are asked to pick a modern style tribe and define the characteristics of the group’s dress. Once the students have a clear understanding of the style they pick three garments associated with the group and connect those garments to earlier style trends throughout costume history. The students then present their findings in a short paper and visual presentation. The learning outcome for this project is to help students draw connections between modern styles and the clothing of the past. Through tying the garments to a specific subculture with a clearly defined style attitude, the students learn how the garments have signified different things to specific cultures throughout history.
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Life Size Costume Timeline
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.
Elements of Design Scavenger Hunt
Abstract
Introduce design students to the Elements of Design in a fun and collaborative way.
A Pillow Project
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.
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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)