1. The First Hand serves as assistant to the Cutter / Draper. This entails taking notes, planning and calendaring workflow in collaboration with the Cutter / Draper.

The first hand is also responsible preparing and cutting fabric as directed by the cutter / draper.

2. All pattern making, cutting, and prep work is to be completed by the cutter / draper and First hands.

3. First Hand is responsible for recording and documenting instructions from the Cutter / Draper for each project and passing them along to the Tailor A who will execute the work.

4. Assists Cutter / Draper in fittings. Including, but not limited to handing the Cutter / Draper pins during the fitting, taking detailed notes and photographs to record the fitting.

5. First Hand is responsible for setting up and preparing the fitting room for client visits. Including but not limited to opening pins, making sure there is marking chalk, measuring equipment, a clean dressing room and making sure the clothing that is needed is present, prepared to be fit and in all ways, making sure that the fitting goes quickly and smoothly.

6. First Hand will take notes in a digital format and upload them to CW OneDrive to allow easy access by the department.

These notes should include fit photos, measurement sheets, and fitting notes (or photos of fitting notes)

7. Studies and researches techniques, garments, production methods, and colors of 18th century clothing and accessories, creating an academic presentation once per year to be presented to the Historical Clothing & Dress staff and Committee for approval.

These techniques and methods may then be applied to the work that is carried out in the Department of Historical Clothing & Dress.

8. Communicates any complications, textile issues, garment construction problems or needs quickly and efficiently with Tailor A and Cutter / Draper.

9. Always analyzes the garment construction methods in accordance with the textile that is chosen and its specific needs in relation to the historical accuracy of the period represented by Colonial Williamsburg Foundation.

If more efficient or historically accurate methods are discovered, those methods are immediately brought to the attention of the Cutter / Draper, or Manager for approval.

10. Freely consults with manager, specialized fashion trades people, or the Historical Clothing and Dress Committee to find direction for their technique and skill development.

11. Takes an active and ongoing role in continuing their own education about the clothing and material culture of the late 18th century from reliable sources.

12. Performs repairs / mending on garments to keep them in top quality working order when needed.

Required and Preferred Education and Experience :

Required :

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent study / work experience.
• 5-10 years sewing experience minimum 3 years in a professional sewing environment (Professional Costume shop, Tailor shop, or Clothing Factory Personal online shops and home sewing environments do not qualify).

Preferred :

• Working knowledge of historical clothing with a preferred emphasis on the late 18th century.
• Working knowledge of research practices to create academic-style presentations about material culture.

Qualifications :

• Ability to work in a fast paced, creative environment.
• Familiar with pattern making, sewing, and historical clothing terminology.
• Proficient in hand sewing with an emphasis on speed and accuracy.
• Excellent Machine sewing skills on both commercial and domestic sewing machines with an emphasis on speed and accuracy.
• Ability to take direction from First Hands and Cutter / Draper with emphasis on clear communication and taking notes to maintain / verify clarity.
• A verified interest in historical dress and how it is made with emphasis on late 18th century preferred.

Last updated : 2024-05-22