Ballet Independent Project: Final Evaluation
This project I wanted to master difficult fabrics, create a successful design, learn how to make a romantic tutu and improve my sewing techniques.
I thought my biggest challenge would be working independently and improving my aesthetic eye. Although I have asked for help, I feel like by the end I was finding solutions to my own problems. My aesthetic eye could still be improved especially evaluating which element isn’t working, and how to fit it. For example, my chemise needed the flowers to break up the empty space. I learned that sometimes designs that work on paper, can still require additional work.
I do not feel like I worked to the best of my capability this term, I made many mistakes and redid certain areas. Although this was frustrating and demoralizing, in the end I produced a much better garment. I became more confident working with chiffon, but I still haven’t mastered velvet. Next time I will expect flatter seams and neater piping. I feel embroidery on my chemise and sleeves would have taken my costume to the next level.
This project taught me I used to rely taking my work home. By using time management effectively and setting myself realistic time goals, I can get the work done in the studio. I have sped up a lot by regularly timing myself. On the whole I achieved this with out decreasing my accuracy. Although I have learned that I need to make sure my concentration sustains, or else I make mistakes. This is something that should improve with practice throughout my third year.
The last ballet unit, taught me what to mistakes to avoid, and yet again, I have a checklist of how to improve next year. I made most of the bodice within two days and was proud of my pattern drafting. A lot of my hand sewing could have been neater, like on the fastenings, but I am pleased this time the whole costume fits a manikin.
I feel much more confident about starting third year. This is the first project I felt I worked at a constant pace from the beginning. I liked being challenged, even when it seemed impossible, I managed to push pass this and feel I have became technically more competent and much more independent.
Overall, there are areas of my costume I would love to have spent longer on. But from a distance, where my costume would be viewed, I am pleased with the outcome. I think it relates well to my design and reflects a simple country girl. This is not the best costume I have made, however it is the project I have learned the most about myself. In third year, I will make sure I set time goals from the beginning and concentrate on the fine details Ballet is a time consuming discipline but also extremely satisfying, I look forward to the next step.
