Bernice Bottchenbaugh cuts out fabric for a chemise in her class at the Qualla Boundary Public Library makerspace on Aug. 6. (BROOKLYN BROWN BIGMEAT/One Feather photo)
By BROOKLYN BROWN BIGMEAT
One Feather Reporter
CHEROKEE, N.C. – On Thursday, Aug. 6, Bernice Bottchenbaugh, a member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) from Kolanvyi (Big Cove), taught a chemise class at the Qualla Boundary Public Library. The library hosts many traditional craft classes in their makerspace taught by members of the community, from Cherokee woven belts to trade shirts and twine bags.
The chemise class began at 8 a.m. and lasted until 4 p.m. with lunch provided. Amy PostOak, library aide, said participants are selected via lottery system, but they do hold spots for those running for Little, Junior, Teen, Miss, or Senior Miss Cherokee, so contestants have an opportunity to learn and make their regalia for the pageants.
Cherokee women work on their chemises in a class taught by Bernice Bottchenbaugh at the Qualla Boundary Public Library makerspace on Aug. 6. (BROOKLYN BROWN BIGMEAT/One Feather photo
There were a range of Cherokee women in the chemise class of varying ages and walks of life, including youth, elders, and two young women who plan to run in the pageants. Sewing experience was required to sign up for the class, but Bottchenbaugh made sure to teach each person individually at their own pace.
The class began with each participant selecting their fabric, which was provided by the library. The library also had all necessary tools and materials in their makerspace, like sewing and serger machines, so that participants need only show up and learn. The library accepts donated materials if you have craft supplies that you would like to donate to the makerspace.
Bottchenbaugh provided an easy-to-follow pattern that was specific to individual measurements. Next was surging the fabric, which a few women said was their first experience using a serger. A serger is useful for trimming and sewing the edge of your fabric to prevent fraying and give a polished look.
After surging the fabric cuts, the sewing began. The chemise is fairly simple to piece together, but it takes time and patience to make sure everything connects for a nice fit. Bottchenbaugh suggested gussets and gores, diamond and triangular shaped fabric inserts, to make sure the chemise fit comfortably.
Bernice Bottchenbaugh, left, and Marvel Welch pose after Welch finished her chemise in Bottchenbaugh’s class at the Qualla Boundary Public Library makerspace on Aug. 6. (Photo by Amy PostOak, library aide)
Cherokee One Feather Reporter Brooklyn Brown Bigmeat poses in her finished chemise. (Photo by Amy PostOak).
After piecing together the chemise and feeding through elastic for the neckline and sleeves, Bottchenbaugh provided pre-made bows to sew on the middle of the neckline and sleeves for a final touch.
Bottchenbaugh said a woven belt and traditional jewelry pairs nicely with the chemise. Everyone walked away from the class with a completed chemise, many finishing before 4p.m.
“I like the results when everyone tries the finished dress and is so happy and satisfied. That’s why I do what I can when asked to share whatever I know. Everyone was so pleasant and admired each other’s dress,” Bottchenbaugh said.
“The interest of traditional sharing is important.”
Follow Qualla Boundary Public Library on Facebook to stay up to date on available classes. PostOak said there are classes planned for the fall.
