Ruching Basics for Victorian Clothing

Learn techniques to create fantastic ruched embellishments and design elements

Ruched panels – in all their glorious, gathered loveliness – seem to pop up frequently throughout the Victorian Era (1837-1900). You’ll find ruched bodice panels, puffings as skirt trims, and gathered accents in ribbons for all sorts of marvelous decorations.

The process of ruching isn’t hard. But in some ways it looks so complicated!

Ruching, or to make a ruche, is simply gathering up sections of fabric or ribbon in repeated rows.

As it relates to Victorian clothing, it is then mounted to some sort of foundation, either a shaped base or a garment itself.

In this class you'll learn the basic techniques that go into this creative embellishment and design element. Then we'll look at a few sample garments where the ruching technique was used.


Your Instructor


Jennifer Rosbrugh
Jennifer Rosbrugh

Teacher to hundreds of sewing and costuming students since 2004, Jennifer dreams of the nostalgia of the past and brings it into her modern life through creating costume ensembles from about 1780 to 1920. Dark chocolate, Jane Austen and bustle dress fanatic. Daughter of the King.


Course Curriculum


  Let's Learn About Ruching!
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Frequently Asked Questions


When does the class start and finish?
The class starts now and never ends! Watch the tutorial any time you wish and when you need to come back for a review.
How long do I have access to the class?
After enrolling, you have unlimited access to this class for as long as you like - across any and all devices you own.
What if I am unhappy with the course?
We would never want you to be unhappy! If you are unsatisfied, please contact us to give us the opportunity to address your concerns. We are open to suggestions of what other details you'd like to see about this topic.

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