Costume Maker

Role

Costume Makers are responsible for translating the Costume Designer’s ideas and drawings into real clothes, in consultation with both the designer and Costume Supervisor. They create patterns for the costumes, cutting and sewing them to actually construct the garments.

Key Skills

Advanced knowledge in construction methods.
Excellent finishing skills.
Attention to detail.
Good time-management skills, including the ability to turn work around quickly.
Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

Courses

BA (Hons) Theatre Practice - Costume Construction – Central School of Speech and Drama Click Here
Theatre Costume - Royal Academy of Dramatic Art Click Here
BA (Hons) Costume Production – Rose Bruford College Click Here
BA (Hons) Costume for Performance – London College of Fashion Click Here
BA (Hons) Theatre and Screen – Costume Interpretation – Wimbledon College of Art Click Here
BA (Hons) Costume with Performance Design – Arts University Bournemouth Click Here

Other courses are available. Those above represent a sample from various drama schools and universities.

Responsibilities

Liaising with the Costume Designer and Costume Supervisor to realise the design.
Sourcing fabric samples and other materials in consultation with the Costume Supervisor.
Drafting patterns, cutting and sewing.

Training

Vocational training in Costume is on offer in many drama schools and some traineeships are available with larger theatre companies.

Some people begin by working voluntarily in Wardrobe Departments in local theatres, progressing through the ranks of Costume Assistant.

Skills are developed on-the-job while gaining useful industry contacts, which are vital for securing future work.