Behind the Seams: Hands-On Costumes Department Workshop

This immersive workshop provides a comprehensive introduction to the world of film costuming and wardrobe management. Participants will explore key areas such as:

1. Roles and Responsibilities – Understanding the costume department’s structure, including costume designers, supervisors, set costumers, and wardrobe assistants.
   
2. Script & Character Analysis – Learning to break down scripts, create costume plots, and develop a cohesive visual style for characters.
   
3. Fabric & Costume Selection – Sourcing, budgeting, and selecting materials for authenticity and practicality.
   
4. Costume Fittings & Alterations – Measuring actors, conducting fittings, and performing basic alterations, distressing, and aging techniques.
   
5. Wardrobe Organization & Continuity – Managing on-set wardrobe, tracking continuity, and handling quick changes.
   
6. On-Set Protocols & Emergency Fixes – Preparing for shoot days, handling last-minute alterations, and problem-solving under pressure.
   
7. Collaboration Across Departments – Working effectively with production designers, directors, and makeup artists to ensure cohesive character development.
   

Through lectures, case studies, and hands-on exercises, participants will gain practical skills and a deeper understanding of how the costume department shapes a film’s visual storytelling.

Saturday: 9 AM - 5 PM
Sunday: 9 AM - 5 PM

Lunch, beverages, and snacks will be provided both days. Please bring a water bottle and a traveler coffee mug to help us reduce waste.

This program is a presentation of UMFO in partnership with the IRRRB , St Louis County and the Blandin Foundation

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The Upper Midwest Film Office (UMFO) reserves all rights to any and all footage shot during the workshop. By participating in this workshop, you acknowledge and agree that UMFO may use, edit, and distribute the footage for any purpose, including but not limited to promotional, educational, and commercial uses, without any compensation to you. Your participation in the workshop constitutes your consent to be recorded and your waiver of any rights to the footage.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Lost Forty Studios, 316 W. Lake St., Chisholm, United States