The Millinery Masterclass

The Millinery Masterclass

The sacred tradition of apprenticeship. Five days. A new legacy.

This is not a workshop.

The for women Millinery Masterclass is a three-day immersion into one of the oldest craft traditions still practiced today. Hat making is equal parts art and science. You will learn both, from the foundational techniques that have been passed between makers for centuries to the modern methods that define where the craft is going.
Held in my sacred atelier in Ventura, California.
“I firmly believe there is enough room in this industry for everyone who wants to make hats. No two makers will make the same as we all have a different story to tell.”

— Jess Grinsel

What five days look like

This experience was designed for women. You will work at the bench every day, building two fur felt hats from beginning to end. Blocking, shaping, fitting, finishing, and everything in between. The week covers what you expect to learn, and opens doors into corners of the industry you did not know existed until you were standing inside them.

You will also breathe ocean air, eat lunch together on the first day, and move through one of California’s most beautiful coastal cities. The atelier is steps from the beach, surrounded by restaurants, coffee shops, and the particular quality of light that only exists near the Pacific.

The Curriculum

The week covers everything a serious hat maker needs

  • The history and tradition of millinery craft
  • Tools, materials, weights, and how to choose between them
  • Blocking, shaping, and solving fit challenges
  • Advanced techniques and interior finishing
  • Design identity, brand ethos, and signature detail work
  • How to build a creative practice that is entirely your own

What You Leave With

  • Two complete fur felt hats — made by your own hands
  • A supplies list with sourcing links to build your own kit
  • Personal mentorship throughout the week
  • A surprise from the atelier
  • The knowledge to make another hat the moment you get home

They Came to Make Hats

"Just finished a week's class with Jess! I'm still in awe! Was a week of inspiration, illumination and eye opening creativity! I'm definitely on to the start of a glorious selfish hobby of hat making. Thank you Jess for my reawakening.”

— @mommybeth4

"My experience learning from you last year was amazing! I really appreciated the hands on education! And I love the insight on tools you gave us! It was the perfect experience to launch the hat making part of my business!"

— @the.hat.edit

"If anyone is hesitant about taking her class, do it! It's extremely informative and she will help you with any questions you have at every step of the way. I finally started my hat company @casaceptua_hats after taking her course."

— @zabrinathorson