Registration is open for my online 1860s men’s trouser making class! This covers all aspects of constructing a pair of 1860s period trousers, from drafting and fitting the trousers to your specific body type, to constructing the various parts such as the fly, linings, various pocket styles, waistband, buttonholes, and the back buckle. Upon registration you’ll receive immediate access to the entire course to work through at your own pace.
How it works
Each section contains detailed step-by-step written instructions, clear photographs, and accompanying HD video for those who prefer to learn that way. You’ll also have access to my support forum where I’ll personally answer any questions you may have and be able to help with your fitting.
It depends on your skill level of course, but I’m estimating each section will take from two to five hours to complete, for a total of about 15 - 20 hours of work.
Experience
You should have some basic sewing experience, and perhaps a bit of experience in drafting patterns. Don’t like to draft? No problem! I can provide you with a free digital pattern to your measurements that you can get printed locally or online.
I get a lot of questions from people wondering about how long they have to finish the project, but don’t worry about that at all. The class is entirely self-paced and you can work as slowly or as quickly as you like, and you have indefinite access to everything. You can always return in the future to finish your waistcoat if ‘life gets in the way’ or you simply want to make another one.
When you complete the class you will have a beautiful, historically-accurate pair of trousers representative of the 1860s period!
Supplies and Materials List
- Drafting paper
- Pencil and eraser
- Quilting ruler
- Bendable drafting ruler or French curves
- Tape Measure
Supplies and Materials List
- 2 1/2 – 3 1/2 yards Wool or Linen
- 1/4 yard white Linen
- 1 yard Linen Stay Tape**
- 1 yard Brown Polished Cotton (or more if lining entire trousers)
- 11 or 12 3/4″ bone buttons
- Silk, Cotton, or Linen Thread
- Silk Buttonhole Twist
- 1″ Trouser Buckle
Curriculum
Module 1 – Drafting
Learn how to take the appropriate measurements and apply them to your draft as you create a trouser pattern that is uniquely suited to your own body. Then turn your pattern into a toile to check how it fits. Learn the various alterations that can be done to improve the fit and get personalized help from James as necessary (I always love helping people)!
Module 2 – Trouser Fly
Cut out and optionally line your trousers, secure the edges to prevent fraying, and learn how to construct the trouser fly and buttonholes.
Module 3 – The Pockets
Learn to construct several different styles of pockets for your trousers based on original examples.
Module 4 – The Waistband
Finish up your trousers by adding the waistband (with optional watch pocket), sewing the remaining inseam and seat seam, and finally adding the buttons and a few other details.
Trouser Making Class
$
97
/One-time Purchase
- One-time purchase with indefinite access.
- Draft your own pattern.
- Fitting instructions with help from James.
- Complete instructions for making your trousers.
Trouser Making Class - Payment Plan
$
48.50
/per month for two months
- Two small payments give you indefinite access to the class.
- Draft your own pattern.
- Fitting instructions with help from James.
- Complete instructions for making your trousers.
Monthly Beginner Subscription
$
24
/per month
- Access to the class on a monthly basis.
- Access to all of my other shirt, waistcoat, and trouser making classes.
- Draft your own pattern.
- Fitting instructions with help from James.
- Complete instructions for making your trousers.
When you join Historical Tailoring Masterclasses you are fully protected by our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. If you don’t feel like you’ve received value and you decide you want to cancel any time within the next 30 days, just let us know and you'll be sent a prompt refund.
