The Master Course in Making a Castle Costume from the 14th Century

Under the guidance of renowned costume designer, tailor, and seamstress Andreja Stžinar, we will acquire in-depth knowledge and practical skills over ten sessions necessary for making a castle costume typical of the Slovenian region in the 14th century of the Middle Ages.

We will create:

• A castle costume in two parts: a practical linen tunic, which can also serve as part of everyday wear, and a decorative upper part adorned with borders, large bell sleeves, and a unique lacing system in the colors of ochre and red linen, which were popular in medieval times.
• A product suitable for both sexes. Men can choose to make a tailored medieval tunic.

MATERIAL IS INCLUDED IN THE PRICE OF THE COURSE.

Duration: 40 hours, 10 sessions of four hours each
From March 13th to April 11th.

Course Schedule:

1st meeting (March 13, 2024)

• Brief introduction to the history of clothing and presentation of castle costumes through the ages, study of domestic and foreign literature, examination of contemporary materials, drawing patterns, and sewing methods.
• Taking measurements and adjustments of the basic pattern for each individual

2nd and 3rd meeting (March 14th and 20th)

• Cutting, sewing, and decorating the underdress

4th, 5th, and 6th meeting (March 21st, 27th, and 28th, 2024)

• Cutting, sewing, and decorating the overdress

7th meeting (March 31st and April 1st)

• Sewing and decorating sleeves

10th meeting (April 10th and 11th, 2024)

• Handcrafting eyelets for lacing and photographing the finished products

Is prior knowledge required for the course:

YES, the course is intended for adults with basic knowledge and experience in pattern making, hand sewing, and sewing on a sewing machine.

The program is suitable for anyone wishing to learn about the history of clothing and gain practical knowledge in making historical costumes. Students of textiles and fashion design are especially welcome, as they seek to enhance practical knowledge and delve into the exploration of the history of clothing. It is also intended for seamstresses, ethnologists, enthusiasts of historical costumes, and all those involved in ethnological and related societies.

Participants will acquire the following skills:

• insight into old sewing and pattern making techniques,
• the correct approach to making historical costumes,
• familiarity with materials and their properties,
• hand skills,
• understanding of different ways of wearing and the attitude toward clothing in the past and today.

Does the course count as training?

YES, with the course, you will receive completed training for the sewing workstation (worth 30 EUR for members/40 EUR for non-members), and next time, you will be able to use the sewing workstation independently during open hours.

What will I take home with me?

• a wonderful two-layered castle dress from the 14th century or a men's tunic, tailored to your measurements.

About the mentor:

Andreja Stržinar is a master in making historical costumes, reconstructions, and garments of Slovenian clothing heritage. She makes costumes for groups and individuals involved in presentations of past life and work. After completing the Middle School of Textiles, she spent over a decade refining her skills in the costume atelier of the Ljubljana Opera, first in painting, then in her first tailoring position in the men's tailoring workshop. The knowledge she gained there paid off when she decided to pursue an independent path and began making costumes for folklore groups. Andreja Stržinar's costumes, undoubtedly one of the greatest connoisseurs of clothing heritage in our country, testify to her dedication and craftsmanship.

The assembly of participants for the course is 5 minutes before the agreed time in the entrance hall of the Center Rog.

The workshop will be held with a minimum of 5 registrations. In case of non-completion, you will be informed at least two days before the start of the program.

We do not refund workshop fees (except in exceptional circumstances), and it is also not possible to change the date. Participation in the workshop can be transferred to another person; please inform us at least 24 hours before the start by email: info@center-rog.si.

Photo credit: Branko Čeak