Introduction
Learn how to create authentic history in 1:12 scale.
With insightful instructions, clear technique videos, one-of-a-kind patterns and historical context, master artist and award-winning living historian, Susan Parris, guides you step-by-step through her unique process to create historically accurate miniatures.
Even if you don’t sew, are unfamiliar with historical patterns or have never worked in 1:12 scale, these multimedia tutorials (courses) clearly demonstrate how Susan designs, constructs, sculpts and displays miniature garments down to the tiniest detail — so you can too.
The Artist
"For as long as I can remember my hands have been busy."
Since Susan’s first show in 2005, most of her one-of-a-kind historical miniatures have been commissions for private collectors and museums around the world as well as Colonial Williamsburg, Disney and The History Channel. After declining a permanent position in Laika Studio’s costume department, she was inspired to start a new creative journey on her own. These tutorials (courses) are the first step of that journey.
People often ask Susan, “How long did it take you to make that?” Her answer, “A life time.” In fact, this tutorial is a culmination of her life’s work and self-taught passions — from sewing, art and design to research, history, film and photography.
As a living historian for more than 30 years, Susan has gained a unique perspective as a miniature artist. Over the years, she’s studied extant full size and doll’s garments from the 18th century in museums and private collections as well as researched, draped, patterned, handsewn and worn historically accurate reproductions from the 15th to early 20th centuries.
This intimate knowledge taught her not only about historical construction techniques, but also the importance of proper fit, authentic silhouettes, accurate materials and how to match textiles and garments to a particular character (person) based on their time period, socioeconomic status, trade and location.
Even though the character’s face is never seen and the miniature garments will never be worn, these are all necessary details for an authentic visual story of someone’s life experience in a garment of any size.
Companion Kits
Can't find the perfect textile?
A very limited number of companion kits are available for each tutorial by post for an additional fee. They include an antique textile, preprinted patterns, cutting diagrams and the recommended products. Additional information is available within the tutorials.
Using Thinkific
Easy to navigate so you can stay focused on learning.
Thinkific is an online course platform used by a wide variety of teachers and students. Tutorials can be accessed 24/7 so they fit into your personal schedule. They can be viewed on any mobile phone, tablet or computer for up to 90 days after registration.
Tuition
No extra fees.
One-time payments are processed by Thinkific through PayPal for individual tutorials. A PayPal account is not required to make a secure payment by credit card utilizing their services.
FAQ
I live outside the US, what if I’m not available at the right time to participate?
The tutorials (courses) are designed to be used individually and can be accessed on Thinkific at anytime to fit your schedule within 90-days from registration.
Will I need a lot of specialty tools?
No. All the recommended tools are listed at the beginning of each tutorial. Most are common items that you probably already have and some alternative suggestions are provided. There may be one or two things to purchase besides materials, but the cost should be minimal.
How long does it take to complete a tutorial on Thinkific?
It will take approximately 90 minutes to complete each tutorial’s lessons and view all the companion videos on Thinkific, but how long it takes to complete a miniature garment after that is up to you.
What if I’ve never done anything like this before?
Even if you don’t sew, are unfamiliar with historical patterns or have never worked with textiles in 1:12 scale, this multimedia tutorial clearly demonstrates how Susan designs, constructs, sculpts and displays miniature garments so you can too regardless of your experience.
Is there any way to get help while taking a tutorial?
Yes. Each tutorial’s lessons on Thinkific include a “discussion” area where students can ask questions or share information for that specific lesson. Susan will be monitoring these to offer support as needed.
Can I get help after completing a tutorial on Thinkific?
Yes. A private Facebook group is available for students to stay in touch with Susan and each other to ask questions, share images and be part of a unique supportive community of miniaturists who speak the same language and share a passion for history and costume.
Ok, but what if I need one-on-one help for an-depth question?
Registered students can schedule a private online tutoring session with Susan for an additional fee. They are available in 30-minute increments via Facetime or Zoom and will focus on your specific needs. Just send a private message or email to Susan for details and availability.
How big is 1:12 scale?
It equals one inch to one foot and represents a miniature world where adults stand no more than 6 inches tall.
Why start with a bathing gown or shift?
These are simple historical patterns and while they do introduce some common historical construction details, like underarm gussets and side gores, their simple construction allows students to focus on learning Susan’s techniques without getting overwhelmed by a complicated pattern.
Will more tutorials be available?
Yes. Follow “Susan Parris Originals” on Facebook for announcements. Future tutorials may include 18th century stays, hoops, petticoats and gowns as well as men’s banyans, night caps, shirts and great coats.
I don’t see a button to purchase a companion kit?
They are sold separately, but are easy to order. Just send a private message or email to Susan for details after registering on Thinkific and if kits are still available, she’ll send a PayPal invoice by email for the additional cost.
How long can I access the tutorial on Thinkific?
Ninety days from registration. If at the end of this period you need more time, send a private message to Susan − additional time may be available.
Are refunds available?
No. Refunds are not provided.
How do I get the patterns?
They are available at the end of each tutorial in PDF format for you to print. Just be sure the 1-inch mark measures exactly one inch on your paper.
Can I print the tutorial?
Yes. At the end there is a PDF document available with the entire written tutorial and photos from the companion videos, but remember this is for your personal use only. The videos can only be viewed on Thinkific.
What if I share this with my friend or use the designs, patterns or techniques to sell things I make?
Karma will strike you down for doing what you know is wrong.
"Any new project may seem daunting at first, but with guidance, quality materials, practice and patience, I believe my techniques can be successfully used for any textile-related miniature project."
-Susan Parris