June 28, 2011

The Royal Ascot - Millinery

In March I returned to Marquee Costumes to continue working after 16 months in the UK. In April I was involved in producing the costumes for a production of "My Fair Lady". 

My main task was to produce the wonderful hats for the scene set at Ascot. 

June 27, 2011

Dirt and Dung! - Breakdown

March 2011

Etobicoke Musical Productions
Urinetown!

LOTS of breakdown - and not much else. However, breaking down costumes is HARD work. To make a garment look like it's been picked up on the side of the road, or pulled from a dumpsters, then look like it's been worn everyday for years. It takes a lot of tearing, rasping, sanding, painting, dyeing, and fake urine spraying :) And I love it!

June 23, 2011

The World of Bridal - Seamstress

While living in the United Kingdom I was introduced to the high-stress, fast-paced world of BRIDAL. At the bridal boutique, A Day to Remember, my duties involved:

  • Independently fit gowns to client's specifications and satisfaction. 
  • Carried out complicated alterations with a high-level of accuracy. Alterations included: hemming (bagged-out hems, rolled hems), lace application, beadwork, and converting zippers to lace-up closures with a modesty panel.  
  • Steamed and pressed gowns in preparation for pick-up.
  • Required to function efficiently and consistently in a high-stress environment within tight time restraints.

Hem completed by me. Under dress was a bagged out hem. Over dress, I removed the lace and re-appliqued it at the new length. I really enjoyed this type of detailed work and was very fast at it. In the shop, I became the seamstress that altered all the lace gowns because of my high quality work.
Me in the boutique, most likely waiting for a fitting appointment.
My own work space at the shop.

June 19, 2011

Addie's Baby Goods

With the birth of my first niece, Hazel, I started making baby blankets, quilts and toys. I've enjoy it immensely and used it as a creative outlet while living in the United Kingdom (and needed a mental break from the stressful world of bridal). I have been commissioned to make specific items for friends and family and have sold others items to complete strangers. Overall the response to my work has been very positive.

My portfolio of products can be viewed at:  
ababygoods.blogspot.com

Just a few examples: