Handbag class

Tired of your handbags and in search for something original and personal? Look no further, this handbag class will teach you how to create and design your own handbag, tailor-made to your taste. You will receive expert guidance from your instructor Jeanne Bjorn and learn a wide range of techniques and skills. Topics covered:

Linings

Pockets

Straps

Findings

Fabric/lining choices

The cost of the 2 day fabric bag course is $200. You will bring fabric of your choice to the class with thread to match; all other supplies will be provided. Enrollment for this class is limited to 3 people per session, giving each student the opportunity to receive ample attention.

A deposit of 50% of the class fee will reserve your space once a date is established. The remainder can be paid at the first class session. If you live out of the area, I will send out email information regarding bed & breakfast and transportation information.

Jeanne Bjorn has been designing and constructing clothing, millinery, shoes and costumes professionally since 1980. Having a degree in Textiles and Fabric Design, and having studied Flat Pattern Design and Draping as well as professional experience at various manufacturers such as Ellen Tracy and Perry Ellis, she began designing her own line of Women's Designer Sportswear in 1980 in SanFrancisco, California. She was a member of The SanFrancisco Design Network. Her designs have been featured in Sportswear International, Women's Wear Daily, California Apparel News, The San Francisco Examiner, The San Jose Mercury News, The Rocky Mountain News, and The Oregonian.

Jeanne relocated to New York in 1985 where she designed custom and private label clothing for various retailers, including Barneys New York and became increasingly interested in costume for stage and film. She worked on Broadway productions, as well as films, including Hook, and the Oscar Awarded - The Age of Innocence. In 1990, Jeanne began studying Millinery Design at The Fashion Institute of Technology. While studying, she constructed head pieces for The Rockettes' 1992 Christmas Show at Radio City Music Hall and for the Finale of Broadway's Tony Awarded "Crazy For You." She also developed her own line of millinery for wholesale accounts including: Barneys New York and Objects of Desire in Lexington, KY

Jeanne began teaching Millinery Design in 1994, as well as continuing her interest in Costume Design, working for various dance companies, including Jan Justis Dance Co., Tina Gerstler Dance Works, and Kim Robards Dance Co. In 1995, she returned to New York for a time to work as Head Milliner for Eaves-Brooks Costume Co. Over the past ten years, she has taught Millinery Design at The Colorado Institute of Art, D'Leas Fabric & Button Studio, The Oregon College of Art and Craft, and at her studio in Portland, Oregon. In 2000, she studied shoemaking with Gaza Bowen and now teaches shoemaking in her studio in Portland, Oregon.