Fashion Workshop: Victorian Purse-Making

Intermediate/Advanced – Fashion Workshop: Victorian Purse-Making – Wednesday, July 22nd @ 9am

In this class students will choose from several types of purse frames to find one they like. Then they will learn how to make a pattern using their selected frame. We will explore how to attach embellishments and fringe to the purse. Purse frames, chains to match the frame, and paper to draft a purse pattern will be provided.

Student provides 

• Sewing machine with both regular foot and zipper foot
• 1/4 yard fabric for purse and lining
  • Note: Velvet and stretchy fabrics are not recommended.
• 1/4 yard medium weight interfacing
• Scissors
• Pins 
• Embellishments for the purse and/or fringe for the bottom of the purse 
  • (lace, ribbon, silk flowers, small cameos all work well, and fringe or beaded fringe may be applied to the bottom of the purse during construction)

Class time: The time to make a purse takes approximately four hours. Extra time is included in the course for lunch breaks and for those who need additional time to finish. Feel free to bring snacks and a lunch.

Space is limited, sign-up now to secure a spot! 

If you have any questions, please contact Education Programs Coordinator Mekenna Bednarek at mekenna.bednarek@sharlothallmuseum.org. 

Sue McDonald is an avid costumer and a long-time seamstress with a special interest in creating those special finishing touches that make a costume come to life. She has taught at Costume College in Los Angeles for many years, offering classes like making a beaded hatpin, making a Victorian or Edwardian purse, making a carpet bag, and making a buckram hat. Her current passion is to produce period garments that "might have been" the real vintage article. Sue currently lives in Prescott, Arizona, where she sews for many of the local re-enactment groups.