INTRODUCTORY COURSE IN FANTASY HAUTE COUTURE TECHNIQUES

This course is a practical introduction to the dressmaking techniques used at the fantasy ateliers at Maison Balenciaga. Participants will work on the sewing, assembly and ironing processes of haute couture by means of technical demonstrations and applied exercises. Special attention will be given to the volume, structure and behaviour of fantasy fabrics.

The main exercise will be to made a bodice inspired by an original toile from 1961. The participants will learn to incorporate typical features of the legacy of Cristóbal Balenciaga, such as the sack back, structured ruffles and inner finishing.

TEACHER: Javier Martín

PRACTICAL INFORMATION AND REGISTRATION:

Dates: October 2-4, 2026.

Times: Friday, October 2, from 14:30 to 18:30, and Saturday and Sunday, 3 and 4, from 09:30 to 13:30 and 14:30 to 18:30. Total dedication: 20 hours. 

Participants: Students or people holding qualifications in Fashion Design, Pattern Design and Dressmaking, fashion professionals and all those interested in learning or improving their knowledge with Haute Couture techniques.

Requirements: Participants must have and be able to prove that they have average knowledge of sewing techniques, and must also be capable of cutting, basting and sewing a garment.

Registration: Registration will be open from the day this course is announced until 30 June (including 02:00 pm, Spanish time). Those wishing to participate must complete the online registration form. Candidates are required to submit a curriculum vitae specifying their training and experience in the world of fashion, and a motivation letter stating why they want to participate in the activity, their connection to its content.

Number of participants: The maximum number of participants will be 20 people. The participants will be selected based on the requested documentation and the assignation of places will be communicated from July 15.

Language: Although the course will be primarily in Spanish, English-speaking participants are also very welcome, as explanations can additionally be provided in English whenever needed. Furthermore, as this is a hands-on methodology, the language of sewing itself helps make the content accessible and easy to follow in a universal way.

Price: 290 euros.

The price includes the materials for the exercises and which are worth 35 euros. The Museum will supply each participant with the necessary kit, consisting of taffeta and cotton fabric.

The participants must, in turn, come equipped with basic sewing tools (scissors, pins & needles, thread, measuring tape, tailors chalk, etc.).

*The net registration fee payable to the Cristóbal Balenciaga Foundation is as stated above and, as such, all bank charges are to be borne by the participant.

**Any discount applicable to Friends of the Museum is restricted to those friends who can prove that they have been members for at least two years at the time of registration.

PLACES LIMITED.REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED.
In the event of failing to meet the minimum number of participants, all of those who have registered will be informed of the activity cancellation and will receive a refund where appropriate.
A certificate of attendance will be issued at the end of the activity.

Contact:
Tel. 943 00 47 77
@. info@fbalenciaga.com

Collaborators:
ALFA HOGAR