Tell Your Story Workshops
Contact me for more information
cedarandbirchcounselling@outlook.com
Draping is the process of positioning and pinning the fabric on a dress form. It is used to design organically by playing with the fabric on the form. The draping process is a creative technique which empowers us to be more creative and innovative. If we design and sew our own clothes we tap into a part of our identity that is creative, inspired and confident in who we are and how we want to show up in the world.
"The draping workshop ignited a new creative spark in me and a new appreciation in creating something new from used, unused and discarded clothing and fabric. Under Krista's expert guidance and encouragement, I created something I'm so proud of. And it's only the beginning... So fun!" -FL
When I was 8 years old my mother taught me how to sew. She told me she would never buy me clothes but would always buy me fabric. Knowing I would not get the same clothes all the other kids, I created my own style and gained a sense of confidence that has stayed with me through out my life.
In 2022 I learned the art of draping from upcycling pioneer Christine Mayer. I have been sharing this creative sewing process with other artists and friends. For all of us, it has re-ignited a playfulness, a willingness to experiment and a joy in repurposing and reinterpreting fashion as a creative sense of self.
In 2023 and 2024 I am hosting weekend draping workshops. These workshops will include the use of dress forms. If you have questions email cedarandbirchcounselling@outlook.com
Draping Workshops
Upcoming Workshops:
April 27 and 28, 2024
Saturday: 9 to 5 with an hour break for lunch (lunch not included)
Sunday: 9am to 5pm with an hour break for lunch
Cost is $300 (plus $15 GST)
sewing skills and some experience with a sewing machine are recommended but not necessary.
If people have sewing machines, they are encouraged to bring theirs. I have 3 sewing machines available.
I have 7 dress forms. See below for sizes.
FOUR SMALL to MEDIUM DRESS FORM
size range
neck 14 to 17
chest 33 to 40
waist 26 to 33
hip 35 to 42
Two MEDIUM to LARGE DRESS FORM
size range
neck 15 to 18
chest 39 to 46
waist 32 to 40
hip 41 to 47
One DRESS FORM
size range
neck 15 to 18
chest 37 to 45
waist 33 to 41
hip 40 to 47
After registering, I will let people know about what kinds of fabric/clothes (e.g., jackets, blazers, corduroy and jeans) to bring and am happy to do that in person, or by video chat if participants live out of town. I will open up my personal stash of fabric if people want to integrate other fabric into their designs.
Scissors, seam rippers, zippers and buttons, etc. will be available. People are encouraged to bring their own as well.
Draping Workshop:
I will need to know each participant's dimensions so I can calibrate a dress form for them. Everyone will have their own dress form to use the entire weekend.
Although you may change your idea once you see the process it is helpful to find some inspiration from Pinterest.
My draping inspiration board:
https://www.pinterest.ca/cedarandbircharttherapy/diy/festival-wear/
We all have our own style and goals so from my experience everyone will create something truly unique to them. I had one participant who brought painted/stenciled fabric to the workshop. Another artist embroidered fabric prior to making her jacket.
"To create is to have fun, make mistakes, look at things differently…to take something old and make it new again. Learning this process brought fulfillment, excitement and a new me!" -JR