Hat Making - The Straw Bonnet

Hat making or millinery is a fantastic skill to have in your costume making repertoire. This course will take you through the skills and materials used for making a straw bonnet.

  • Day 1 Morning

    • Introduction to Straw Bonnet Making: Brief history of the Bonnet, who wore them, different styles and purposes.

    • Understanding of the Bonnet components and construction. Looking at the materials used, comparing traditional to modern day ones. This Bonnet will be constructed using modern day theatrical technique and materials.

    • Choosing your design and lining materials.

    • Taking Measurements

    Day 1 Afternoon

    • Pattern Drafting. Guidance on drafting for the buckram base.

    • Marking up and cutting out the buckram.

    • Stitching the straw Braid to the Buckram base.

    Day 2 Morning

    • Being stitching the straw braid together for the crown of the Bonnet.

    • Hand Stitch in the Wire at the rim of the Bonnet.

    • Stitching together the crown and brim of the hat.

    Day 2 Afternoon

    • Being sewing in the Lining.

    • Embellishment Details and finishing.

  • Course Details

    • This workshop is intermediate level, for people who can already sew but want to add to their skills.

    • Classes start 10:00 and finish at 16:00 with an hour for lunch at 13:00

    • 4 Places available.

    • Materials and Tools Provided.

    • (Design materials and embellishment options will be limited to stock. If you want to line or trim your bonnet with a specific fabric or trim you are welcome to bring this to use).

    • This course is taught in English.

  • £250 per student. This includes course materials.

    Payment must be received within 24 hours of receipt of invoice. If not, your place on the course could be given away.

    None refundable on cancelation of course 1 week prior to the course.

  • If you’re interested in taking part in this course get in touch below.

    Should you want to ask any further questions about the course you can do so via this email.

    themanchesterschoolofcostume@gmail.com

  • The school and studio have recently moved.

    We are now located in Ardwick, tucked away behind Ardwick green. A ten minute walk from Manchester Piccadilly station and accessible by bus routes from Manchester and Stockport on the 192 bus service. Parking is available at the rear of the building or local street parking.

    The Manchester school of Costume

    Graphite House, Paddock Street, Manchester M12 6HT

    • Course is for ages 18 and above

    • Materials and tools provided for the course.

    • Accessibility: Unfortunately the school is unable to accommodate for wheelchair users or anyone who is unable to climb stairs.

back to courses