Join our costume-building summer camps for teens aged 13 and up! Participants will learn to craft clothing and accessories with expert guidance, from design to completion. Perfect for all skill levels, these camps foster creativity in a supportive environment.

We offer a variety of summer camps that focus on different areas that make up a costume or total look. Choose from
Sewing Clothing,
Hoops, Masks, and More
Accessories
They camp contents complement each other but are designed to stand independently. Our expert instructors guide participants through the entire process, from conceptual design to finished product, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of costume creation. Whether your teen is a beginner or has some sewing experience, they’ll find a supportive environment that encourages creativity and skill development. Camps run Monday through Thursday, 9:30-4:00, from $385.
Sewing Clothing
In this camp, we will build the base garments for the character – that is, the clothes worn as the primary outfit. If your teen does not already know how to use a sewing machine for this camp – how to thread it, fill a bobbin, and sew a basic seam – then they should choose a simple first-time project like a cape and/or elastic-waist trousers.
Due to the individual nature of each character, and your teen’s own character, the teen will need their own pattern, fabrics, and notions. The camp participant will need an adult to shop for and purchase their materials ahead of camp time. The Textile Center garage sale, ArtScraps St Paul, and thrift stores are a great place for inexpensive fabric purchases. Cotton and cotton blends are best for beginners; silky and velvety fabrics can be difficult to sew. Stay away from anything stretchy if this is a first time project.
Teaching machines and tools are available for use during this camp. If your teen has access to their own sewing machine and/or tools, we encourage you to bring those. Participants should wear comfortable clothing that might get untidy. We will have a lunch break – please bring your own – and snack breaks daily.
Mon-Thurs, June 16-19, 9:30-4:00
$385
Hoopskirts, Masks, and More
In this session, we’ll build body extensions for your character. Every participant will build their own cage crinoline underskirt, hand/arm extensions (think Statue of Liberty’s torch), a Worbla mask, and heavy-gauge wire wings. We will use a wide variety of industry-standard and costume hacker materials, including sandpaper, plumbing tubing, heat, acrylic or spray paint, and more. Problem solving (like how to keep wings attached?) is emphasized in a fun and creative manner.
ALL MATERIALS ARE PROVIDED. All projects are for the participant to keep.
Your teen should have basic crafting skills (i.e., be able to use basic tools like paintbrushes, pliers, glue, needle/thread, etc.) and should be able to follow multi-part instructions. Participants should wear comfortable clothing that might get stained, and bring lunch.
Session 1: June 23-26, 9:30-4:00
Session 2: July 14-17, 9:30-4:00
Session 3: July 28-31, 9:30-4:00
$435
Accessories
This session will cover how to make traditional accessories. Every participant will do a beaded wire-work piece (such as tiara or bracelet), a leather pouch or skirt hikes, traditional hat-making, and a set of Worbla gauntlets. These are professional costumer skills, used by artisans all over the world.
Artist-quality materials are provided for all projects. All projects are for the participant to keep.
Your teen should have basic crafting skills (i.e., be able to use basic tools like paintbrushes, pliers, glue, needle/thread, etc.) and should be able to follow multi-part instructions. Participants should wear comfortable clothing that might get stained, and bring their own lunch.
Session 1: July 7-10, 9:30-4:00
Session 2: July 21-24, 9:30-4:00
Session 3: August 4-7, 9:30-4:00
$450
“I wish I could spend every Thursday here forever.” (SL)