Barbara Ebel

The Comprehensive Costumer

Industrial sewing~Hand Sewing~Sewing Machine Repair~Tatting
Surface Design & Dying~Draping~Machine Embroidery~Tailoring
Repairs and Restoration~Project Management~Design

Freelance Costume and Fashion Construction Service. 1998-present

I have, between my other projects, acted as a freelance costumer designing costumes for individuals and events at Burning Man. I also enjoy helping local designers start out by providing support for the development of ideas and product for the local market. I am currently in the process of developing a web site to showcase what I have to offer and am working on private commissions.

San Francisco Opera 1996-2003

In 1996 I started out as a stitcher at the San Francisco Opera. I have to say it was one of the best experiences in my life to date. Working alongside master stitchers has given me a invaluable foundation for construction and project scheduling. In 1998 I took an opportunity to become a first hand at the Opera after draping a production of Cabaret at SFSU. As a first hand I was responsible for assisting the Cutter in fittings, for set-up of alterations and repairs for the chorus garments, for supervising the stitchers, for organizing task lists, prioritizing repairs, and for attending to the needs of the performers at rehearsals. In 2001 I took over as Cutter of a team. As a cutter I continued my previous responsibilities and also was responsible for organizing and budgeting time and resources for hundred of garments and performers though the season. Among the shows we built at the Opera are: Saint Francois d' Assis, The Merry Widow, Carmen, Abduction from the Seraglio. Thanks to my good foundation in project management and excellent relationship with my coworkers, we were always one of the teams to finish on time.

DeYoung Museum of San Francisco 1994-1998

Another rewarding experience has been working with the museum. The first work I completed for the museum was the construction of undergarments for the display of a circa 1760 court dress. I continued to provide a variety undergarments for exhibitions of different periods. When it was appropriate I was also allowed to assist in the conservation of antique textiles and act as consultant on period posture and fit. I took a great deal of enjoyment in helping with the installation of the Kasik Wong exhibit and others at the Museum and at the Legion of Honor.

San Francisco State University 1992-1996

In 1996 I graduated with honors from SFSU with a degree in Technical Theater. During this time I held many different positions with local fabric stores, vintage clothing stores and other retailers. I have a good relationship with many of the venders in the Bay Area.