Dying Craft: Trousseau Seam Stressing

Do you know the profession of the trousseau seamstress or as it is called in German “Weißnäherin”? It is a profession that has almost died out due to social and societal developments. It was not so long ago that a woman tying the knot was provided with a lavish dowry. This was primarily bed linen, towels, tablecloths and so on. Since the trousseau was mostly made of white fabrics, it was also commonly referred to as white linen and that is why it the profession is called “Weißnähen” in German. If sheets, tablecloths and the like were sewn before the wedding, some families allowed themselves the luxury of a trousseau seamstress. The seamstress then helped the women to prepare the trousseau.

Renee Karger still learned the profession of trousseau seam stressing in her apprenticeship and she would like to pass on this knowledge. At the workshop we will first learn about fabrics: how to recognize natural fabrics, plain weave, cotton, silk, linen? And then it's time for action: we will try out different types of seams and decorative stitches. Working materials will be provided.

If you yourself practice a craft that you would like to pass on to protect it from becoming forgotten, contact us at kulturvermittlung@weltmuseumwien.at.

Duration: 120 min
Participation: free (admission to the zam space is free of charge)
No registration
Meeting place: Hall of Columns