Custom Draperies: Level II
Instructor: Jessie Lee Miller
Friday, June 20 – Saturday, June 21, 2025 at Workroom Tech in Tryon, NC
9:00 am – 5:00 pm
In this hands-on class you will build on basic drapery making skills to elevate your products for the high-end market. The class will cover: tabling multiple-width panels with accuracy, fabrication techniques for sheers, and the French blackout method for draperies. Additionally we will review “drapery management” techniques such as memory stitches, joining layers, and different buckram options.
You will complete the following samples:
Sample One: A 3-width pleated drapery panel using the French blackout method. Sample will have a finished length of 72.”
We will learn best practices for cutting, joining widths, handling multiple interlining layers, finishing a buckram heading, handsewn side hems and pleating.
Sample Two: A 2-width pleated sheer drapery using a “buckram first” fabrication method. Sample will have a finished length of 72.”
We will learn the “top down or buckram first” method of fabrication, which is a great tool for managing sheers and other unstable fabrics. We will review techniques for joining widths of sheer material and hand-sewing options. The class will also include an overview of buckram types and best practices for finishing hems.
Cost to attend is $1,095.00 and includes linings and supplies needed to complete class samples. Students will bring fabric for sample 1, the sheer material will be provided. See yardage amounts below.
Yardage Requirements:
Fabric 1: Participants should select a fabric with a pattern for the 3-width pleated panel. You will need approximately 8 yards - but please ensure that you have enough material for your cuts relative to the fabric’s vertical repeat. Approximate cut length (not including vertical repeat needs) = 88” per cut.
Fabric 2: Fabric for the sheer drapery sample will be provided.
Students must have completed Custom Draperies: Level I or have equivalent practical knowledge of sewing custom draperies.
Custom Draperies: Level II with Jessie Lee Miller in Tryon, NC
Students will bring their own face fabric. All other tools, materials and supplies will be provided by Workroom Tech. Once your payment has been processed, you will receive an email with yardage requirements and other information for attending this class.