Create a small wire frame hat using both Victorian and modern techniques which can be translated to modern fascinators and raceway headpieces. This hat/bonnet can be covered in fabric, decorative straw braid or a combination of both. It is a great way to showcase a scrap of wonderful fabric, finish off a small amount of decorative straw braid and/or use up leftover trimmings and decorations. The wireframes can be made in off-season and finished up to match your client’s ensemble later. Colorways, trimmings and styling can turn this small hat/bonnet into a 1940s-style doll hat. Several ways of fastening will also be demonstrated.

Skill level: Intermediate. Beginners with good sewing skills are welcome!

Perfect trimmings build confidence in millinery makers. Bows are of course a millinery specialty and this one-day course introduced students to original ways to create stand-out embellishments. Ideal for any student with hand sewing experience, the 3 Beaux standing outside in the hallway each have their own personality. A stiffened but lightweight all-fabric bow. A machine-stitched braid/bias strip on a sinemay bow. A Petersham ribbon tailored bow. Complete the day with a coterie of your own AND if we are efficient, there will be other examples that can be attempted in the fading hour or so of the day. Learn that a bow is not just a bow but something absolutely crucial in the style stakes.

Skill level: All. Suitable for beginners.

Description: It is the perfect course for the students who are aiming to assist their clientele in the whole look! The students will learn how to create their own pattern for the clutch and cover it with fabric or leather. More advanced students can create two pieces. You can start with patterns provided by Biliana and then experiment to create your own designs.

While in the class you will create a small hat, this technique is very versatile and can be used at any scale. Learn how to cleanly finish the hat and the purse and walk out in STYLE!

Skill level: All. Suitable for beginners.

Description: Learn how to create three-dimensional shapes with lace and quills. Guipure lace intricate motives can add dramatic flair to even simple hats. Use some Swarovski to add festive glam or finish with subtle quills.

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Skill level: All

Description: Puzzle, or sectional, hat blocks are specially designed to separate into 2 or more pieces for easy removal of the blocked material. Most have 4-5 pieces and 2-3 rope lines. Particularly complicated puzzle blocks can be perplexing, even intimidating.

This 1-day class is the ideal opportunity to learn about how these blocks were designed to work, what all those rope lines mean, and how to modify the shape for a more contemporary style. A private collection of vintage puzzle blocks will be available for student use (or you may bring your own).

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Skill level: Intermediate. Beginners with some experience are welcome!

Description: In this class, students will make a feather wing from goose feathers, and also learn feather dyeing techniques.

Feather wings on hats give a dramatic and elegant trim. This style of hat is more traditional, as feather wings were used a lot in the past, but I have been incorporating them into hats to give a dramatic yet modern look.

Skill level: Advanced.