Just got 2 calls for sewing ER services.
The first is a bride getting married on Friday. Her corset needs a last-minute alteration by Wednesday! My friends at Bra-La-La sent her here since I’ve done this type of alteration before. So glad to be able to relieve some stress for a bride.
The other call is for an Indian costume for Peter Pan. I'm letting my imagination go wild on this one! The Laurel Mill Playhouse is mounting this show and it opens next week!
Even under pressure, I love creating things and making other people's lives easier.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Halloween Babies and the Sound of Music
I just got back from North Carolina where I spent the weekend being a grandma to my adorable new grandson, the Halloween baby! Of course he's the most adorable baby ever!!
I left my studio in the biggest mess ever as I literally finished the costumes at 7:30am last Friday after 2 all-nighters so I could deliver the Sound of Music costumes before leaving to visit my son's family for the weekend. The costumes weren't actually due for a few more days, but I so wanted to see the new baby I moved the deadline up and made it happen. Once finished, I ran home, packed, and hit the road.
What I'm not looking forward to is all the clean-up--piles of scrap fabric everywhere, patterns to sort out and file away, floors to vacuum.... Oh, well. Part of the job and it was totally worth it!
I left my studio in the biggest mess ever as I literally finished the costumes at 7:30am last Friday after 2 all-nighters so I could deliver the Sound of Music costumes before leaving to visit my son's family for the weekend. The costumes weren't actually due for a few more days, but I so wanted to see the new baby I moved the deadline up and made it happen. Once finished, I ran home, packed, and hit the road.
What I'm not looking forward to is all the clean-up--piles of scrap fabric everywhere, patterns to sort out and file away, floors to vacuum.... Oh, well. Part of the job and it was totally worth it!
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
It's Not all Glamour in the Costume Business
I had fun helping old and new clients pick out Halloween costumes. They're all back in the studio now and being laundered before being put away.
People always think of the glamorous parts of costuming—silks, sequins, sparkles, and sheens—and don't realize there's a lot of behind the scenes stuff. TONS of laundry and HOURS of stain removal, folding, ironing, and repairing. Proper cleaning and maintenance greatly extends the life and look of costumes and clothes alike.
Costumes come back to me with tares and even blood stains—both real and fake. Believe me, I've seen it all. So, if you have a stain removal issue, call me!
People always think of the glamorous parts of costuming—silks, sequins, sparkles, and sheens—and don't realize there's a lot of behind the scenes stuff. TONS of laundry and HOURS of stain removal, folding, ironing, and repairing. Proper cleaning and maintenance greatly extends the life and look of costumes and clothes alike.
Costumes come back to me with tares and even blood stains—both real and fake. Believe me, I've seen it all. So, if you have a stain removal issue, call me!
Thursday, November 4, 2010
The Adventures of the Interns at the Sewing Design Studio
Things are moving along and picking up speed as my trusty interns, Brittany, and I pump out costumes for Sound of Music. We'll fit the principals' costumes on Thursday.
My interns learned the intricacies of pattern sizing and tracing this week as they prepped the uniform patterns for the Von Trapp girls' dresses. They learned to use a serger, too!
We reviewed and discussed their design projects this week. They're learning it's not so easy to bring a 2-D design from a sketch on paper to a 3-D reality. They have to show the front and back views of their designs and then come up with a materials list. The final step is to describe in detail how it will be constructed.
In all, a very interesting day! But then, nothing's ever dull at the Sewing Design Studio.
My interns learned the intricacies of pattern sizing and tracing this week as they prepped the uniform patterns for the Von Trapp girls' dresses. They learned to use a serger, too!
We reviewed and discussed their design projects this week. They're learning it's not so easy to bring a 2-D design from a sketch on paper to a 3-D reality. They have to show the front and back views of their designs and then come up with a materials list. The final step is to describe in detail how it will be constructed.
In all, a very interesting day! But then, nothing's ever dull at the Sewing Design Studio.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Sew with a Pro
My next Sew with a Pro class is Saturday, October 30th, 10am-noon!
I wanted to take a moment and give some more detail about this series of classes. Sew with a Pro is open to both adults and teens.
It's hands-on, interactive program designed to either:
Beginners will be assigned projects appropriate to their skill level after practicing some basics. Experienced sewers are encouraged to bring their own current apparel or home decor project. They're also welcome to work on a class assigned project.
Each lesson begins with a short informative demo on a single technique or topic and handouts reinforce each concept. Creativity is encouraged at every step as a way to personalize each garment.
With an ongoing registration process, students can join the class at any time and choose which 4 weeks work for their schedules, so the 4 weeks don’t have to be consecutive. If a class is missed the student will pick up where they left off. Students have the option of purchasing as many 4 week blocks of class time as they need.
Adults: Saturdays 10am - noon
Teens (13-18) Saturdays 1- 3 pm
Tuition: $275 for each 4 week block and includes all materials except garment projects
Bring a friend to register with you and get a 10% discount on your tuition!
For those of you who are new to the studio, all machines and equipment, as well as most materials needed for the projects, are provided to students. The only additional expense is purchasing your garment project pattern and fabric. You will be informed as to what pattern and type of fabric will be needed for your class when you register. It is suggested that each student bring a notebook and pencil.
All classes include discussions and demonstrations on appropriate fabrics, stitching techniques, proper measurements, and creative options to add personality to the garment. Pattern adjustments are made as needed for each student to insure a well fitting garment.
Advanced registration is required for all classes.
301-604-4139
marilynjohnson@sewingdesignstudio.com
I wanted to take a moment and give some more detail about this series of classes. Sew with a Pro is open to both adults and teens.
It's hands-on, interactive program designed to either:
- build a solid foundation of sewing skills and confidence for beginners or,
- build on that foundation for more experienced sewers.
Beginners will be assigned projects appropriate to their skill level after practicing some basics. Experienced sewers are encouraged to bring their own current apparel or home decor project. They're also welcome to work on a class assigned project.Each lesson begins with a short informative demo on a single technique or topic and handouts reinforce each concept. Creativity is encouraged at every step as a way to personalize each garment.
With an ongoing registration process, students can join the class at any time and choose which 4 weeks work for their schedules, so the 4 weeks don’t have to be consecutive. If a class is missed the student will pick up where they left off. Students have the option of purchasing as many 4 week blocks of class time as they need.
Adults: Saturdays 10am - noon
Teens (13-18) Saturdays 1- 3 pm
Tuition: $275 for each 4 week block and includes all materials except garment projects
Bring a friend to register with you and get a 10% discount on your tuition!
For those of you who are new to the studio, all machines and equipment, as well as most materials needed for the projects, are provided to students. The only additional expense is purchasing your garment project pattern and fabric. You will be informed as to what pattern and type of fabric will be needed for your class when you register. It is suggested that each student bring a notebook and pencil.All classes include discussions and demonstrations on appropriate fabrics, stitching techniques, proper measurements, and creative options to add personality to the garment. Pattern adjustments are made as needed for each student to insure a well fitting garment.
Advanced registration is required for all classes.
301-604-4139
marilynjohnson@sewingdesignstudio.com
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Costumes for Two Stage Plays Progress on Schedule
The "Sound of Music" at Seton Keogh HS progresses. Met with Pam who’s helping with costumes so now I have the complete run-down of what they need from me. Musicals always have larger casts so there’s a lot more costume work, especially in multiples. Dramas have different types of challenges.
Speaking of dramas, I'm also deep into costume selection, fittings, and alterations for the "Miracle Worker" with Synapse Theater. Show opens October 22nd and runs thru October 31st at Slayton House in Columbia. The challenge here has been that I was called in so last minute on the costumes. Thanks to my trusty Interns and Brittany by my side I think we can pull this off and have costumes ready to go by the beginning of Tech Week on October 17th. After all, what's drama without a little drama?
Speaking of dramas, I'm also deep into costume selection, fittings, and alterations for the "Miracle Worker" with Synapse Theater. Show opens October 22nd and runs thru October 31st at Slayton House in Columbia. The challenge here has been that I was called in so last minute on the costumes. Thanks to my trusty Interns and Brittany by my side I think we can pull this off and have costumes ready to go by the beginning of Tech Week on October 17th. After all, what's drama without a little drama?
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Synapse Theater Presents The Miracle Worker and I Learn About the Cult of Rapture
Synapse Theater’s production of the Miracle Worker opens October 22nd! I love this show so I’m excited to be the costume designer for it. For the past 4 days I’ve been fitting actors into costumes borrowed from Port Tobacco and from my business’s costume closet. This is going to be a well dressed cast!
As much as I enjoy playing in aubergine silk, I love costumes too.
That makes my recent commission for a Cult of Rapture costume all the more interesting. It’s not in silk, but the adult sized costume for this little girl will be aubergine! Remember what I said about aubergine being the new black? Anyway, I’d never heard of the Cult of Rapture before this week, but the project should be fun!
As much as I enjoy playing in aubergine silk, I love costumes too.
That makes my recent commission for a Cult of Rapture costume all the more interesting. It’s not in silk, but the adult sized costume for this little girl will be aubergine! Remember what I said about aubergine being the new black? Anyway, I’d never heard of the Cult of Rapture before this week, but the project should be fun!
Friday, October 8, 2010
Things are Never Boring at the Sewing Design Studio
During the first week of school I took on three student interns, one each from Reservoir High School, Springbrook High School, and Pallotti High School. My fourth, from Oakland Mills High School, joined our little club this week. These girls are all seniors looking forward to colleges and careers in fashion design. I have big plans to teach them sewing, designing, and how to run a business as we work together this year.
I ran them ragged day before yesterday removing trims, sorting costumes, laundry, prepping alterations, putting costumes back in storage. But, it's all done and proves many hands make light work. Bet they never considered this as a part of a design career!
I ran them ragged day before yesterday removing trims, sorting costumes, laundry, prepping alterations, putting costumes back in storage. But, it's all done and proves many hands make light work. Bet they never considered this as a part of a design career!
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
A Return From Reality
These last few months have been both “character building” and a wake-up call for the inevitable realities of life for me. Family issues have kept me traveling and unfocused. For better or for worse, things have calmed down now and I’m ready to dig back in to my business and my passion.
The timing couldn’t be better, either. With Halloween less than a month away and several shows nearing completion, I’m happily playing in fabric again! This fall, that fabric’s color is auburgine. I have two custom dresses in that color, so if anyone asks, auburgine (eggplant) is the new black.
Details to come. It’s so good to be back.
Monday, October 12, 2009
'Julius Ceasar' at PFI!
_________________________________________________________________________
"S'up?" from Chesapeake Shakespeare Company's
The Shakespeare Dude
Q: S'up with this production of Julius Caesar anyway?
Shakespeare Dude: Let the Dude explain: it's a different kind of theater experience. Instead of sitting in one place while the scenery changes, you move with the action - and move from space to space. The Dude saw last year's CSC production of Macbeth done this way and liked it. He liked it a lot. The audience dug it too. A lot. The whole run sold out . Even the critics liked it! This year, we've got Frank B. Moorman's production of Julius Caesar. With CSCers Scott Alan Small and Michael P. Sullivan, it's gonna to add a little somethin' somethin' to the show.
Q: Cool beans?
Shakespeare Dude: Cool beans.
Q: I read this play in tenth grade. Ms. Lindquist, my tenth grade English Teacher made me memorize an entire speech from it. I hated it! Julius Caesar sucks.
Shakespeare Dude: The Dude can see that's not really a question, but he'll try to answer it anyway. The Dude had to read it in high school, too--totally went over his head. There might be a million reasons for that, but whatever. Now The Dude declares it a cool play and this "movable" production is gonna prove that.
Q: Oh. So, it'll be good, right?
Shakespeare Dude: Yes it will. Frank (the director) promised The Dude.
Q: S'up with the ghost? Isn't there supposed to be a ghost there at the performance site?
Shakespeare Dude: I ain't 'fraid of no ghosts.
Q: My attention span has been ruined by easily accessible digital entertainment . . . ummm . . . how do I put this? How long is it?
Shakespeare Dude: Just 90 minutes and that includes an intermission. Word of The Shakespeare Dude.
Dress warmly--like you're going to a football game.
It's autumn, it takes place in the evening, it's outdoors, you walk up a big hill.
And bring a flashlight and comfortable shoes.
"S'up?" from Chesapeake Shakespeare Company's
The Shakespeare Dude
Q: S'up with this production of Julius Caesar anyway?
Shakespeare Dude: Let the Dude explain: it's a different kind of theater experience. Instead of sitting in one place while the scenery changes, you move with the action - and move from space to space. The Dude saw last year's CSC production of Macbeth done this way and liked it. He liked it a lot. The audience dug it too. A lot. The whole run sold out . Even the critics liked it! This year, we've got Frank B. Moorman's production of Julius Caesar. With CSCers Scott Alan Small and Michael P. Sullivan, it's gonna to add a little somethin' somethin' to the show.
Q: Cool beans?
Shakespeare Dude: Cool beans.
Q: I read this play in tenth grade. Ms. Lindquist, my tenth grade English Teacher made me memorize an entire speech from it. I hated it! Julius Caesar sucks.
Shakespeare Dude: The Dude can see that's not really a question, but he'll try to answer it anyway. The Dude had to read it in high school, too--totally went over his head. There might be a million reasons for that, but whatever. Now The Dude declares it a cool play and this "movable" production is gonna prove that.
Q: Oh. So, it'll be good, right?
Shakespeare Dude: Yes it will. Frank (the director) promised The Dude.
Q: S'up with the ghost? Isn't there supposed to be a ghost there at the performance site?
Shakespeare Dude: I ain't 'fraid of no ghosts.
Q: My attention span has been ruined by easily accessible digital entertainment . . . ummm . . . how do I put this? How long is it?
Shakespeare Dude: Just 90 minutes and that includes an intermission. Word of The Shakespeare Dude.
Dress warmly--like you're going to a football game.
It's autumn, it takes place in the evening, it's outdoors, you walk up a big hill.
And bring a flashlight and comfortable shoes.
Julius Caesar
Outdoors at the PFI Historic Park, Ellicott City
October 8 - November 1
Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00
Sundays at 6:00
Tickets:
Adults: $25 - $30
Seniors: $22
Students under 22: $10
www.chesapeakeshakespeare.com
or call 866.811.4111
click here for questions about the event
Chesapeake Shakespeare Company
8510 High Ridge Road
Ellicott City, MD 21043
410-313-8874
Outdoors at the PFI Historic Park, Ellicott City
October 8 - November 1
Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00
Sundays at 6:00
Tickets:
Adults: $25 - $30
Seniors: $22
Students under 22: $10
www.chesapeakeshakespeare.com
or call 866.811.4111
click here for questions about the event
Chesapeake Shakespeare Company
8510 High Ridge Road
Ellicott City, MD 21043
410-313-8874
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