Storrowton Village Museum is seeking a hands-on Costuming Summer Intern to research and construct costumes for use by volunteer and staff interpreters representing New England fashion of the 1830s–1840s. Depending on the skill level of the intern this project may be a singular, complex garment or multiple simple garments needed for every-day interpretation.

This project-based internship centers on creating a completed, wearable reproduction garment for use in active living history programming while also assisting with day-to-day needs related to costuming. By summer’s end, the intern will have a fully finished 1830s–1840s reproduction costume and documentation suitable for a professional portfolio.

Commitment: Mid-May through Mid-August | 8–10 hours per week Stipend: $1,200 for the full internship (paid in installments)

Responsibilities

Project:

• Research 1830s–1840s New England silhouettes, fabrics, and construction methods
• Select appropriate materials in consultation with staff
• Draft or adapt period-appropriate patterns
• Construct the garment(s) using both machine and hand-finishing techniques
• Participate in fittings and final adjustments
• Document sources, materials, and process for museum records

Day-to-Day Learning:

• Assist with organizing, inventorying, and labeling historic and reproduction garments
• Support basic garment care, including laundering, pressing, minor repairs, and proper storage
• Assist with measuring and fitting interpreters and volunteers
• Help construct or alter simple reproduction garments and accessories
• Develop basic documentation for costume pieces (materials, period accuracy, usage guidelines)
• Support preparation of costuming needs for summer and fall programs

Ideal Candidate

• Background in theater costuming, fashion design, fashion history, museum studies, or related field
• Strong basic sewing skills (machine required; hand sewing preferred)
• Interest in historic dress and material culture
• Ability to work independently on a long-term sewing project
• Ability to lift storage boxes (up to 25 lbs)
• Comfortable working in historic buildings irregular climate control
• Able to climb up to 12 stairs regularly throughout shifts
• Ability to sit, stand, and perform detailed handwork for extended periods

What You’ll Gain

• A completed 1830s–1840s reproduction garment
• Applied experience in historical costuming for living history
• Portfolio documentation of research and construction process
• Clear knowledge and hands-on experience with day-to-day needs of museum costuming
• Mentorship in a working museum environment

To apply, submit a resume, brief letter of interest, and (if available) photos of past sewing work samples. Priority deadline to apply: March 9, 2026