Through this training, participants discover not only the techniques of a master pleater, but also a way of thinking about materials, structuring textiles, and imagining volumes. More than just a skill, Karen Grigorian shares a culture of craftsmanship, constantly striving to keep this centuries-old tradition alive and evolving in contemporary creative environments.

At the end of the training, the trainee will be able to:

• Design a cardboard mold
• Create classic pleats
• Respect symmetry and regularity when creating a mold
• Adjust shapes to fit a fabric

In his workshop, Karen Grigorian uses a rare skill: the technique of artisanal pleating, carried out entirely by hand. Using cardboard molds called "forms," which he designs himself, he creates a wide variety of pleats: sunburst, upright, recumbent, accordion, and flower. These molds accommodate various materials such as fabric, leather, or even metal threads such as bronze.

Once the textile is placed in the mold, the entire assembly is heated in a high-temperature oven and then left to rest so that the pleats retain their shape for a long time. This process, which combines art, geometry, and technical precision, results in unique pieces intended for haute couture, luxury leather goods, design, or stage costumes.

During this training, participants will learn to reproduce certain steps of the process using irons, an accessible tool that will allow them to continue experimenting and developing these techniques at home.

Beyond the technical aspects, Karen Grigorian conveys a true philosophy of his profession, founded on a passion for craftsmanship. He values rigor, patience, and attention to detail, while encouraging the exploration of new forms. His artisanal approach resolutely counters the logic of rapid production, favoring authenticity and quality.

Schedule

Day 1

Introduction & First Classic Pleats

Morning and Afternoon

• Presentation of the technique of artisanal hand pleating
• Historical overview and applications in fashion, leather goods, design, costume, etc.
• Introduction to classic pleats: flat pleat, accordion pleat
• Study of basic principles: symmetry, regularity, fabric orientation
• Creation of the first cardboard molds by each participant
• First fabric pleating test with the molds made

Day 2

Advanced Study of Classic Pleats

Morning and Afternoon

• Discovery of the sunburst pleat and its variations
• Design of more complex molds adapted to radiating pleats
• Practical application: each participant creates their own sunburst mold
• Preparing the fabric, positioning it in the molds
• Applying heat (using irons) to set the pleats
• Group discussion on results and technical corrections

Day 3

Improvement and autonomy

Morning and afternoon

• Review of pleats seen and resolution of technical difficulties
• Work on precision, repeatability, and shape adjustment
• Pleating with the molds made
• Discussion on the choice of alternative fabrics, textures, and materials
• Tips for continuing the practice at home using simple methods

Day 4

Exploration of decorative and decorative pleats Pattern

Morning and Afternoon

• Introduction to fancy molds: organic, irregular, and asymmetrical shapes
• Creation of original molds from drawings, patterns, or free forms
• Work on graphic composition through pleating
• Pleating fabrics with fancy molds
• Analysis of the visual rendering and material effects obtained

Day 5

Personal Project and Closing

Morning and Afternoon

• Mold creation, fabric selection, and final pleating
• Presentation of completed projects to the group
• Educational feedback, personalized advice for continuing the experiment at home
• Closure of the training and discussion of application prospects
• Storage of the workshop

• Classroom, multipurpose room, workshops with professional equipment
• Materials provided
• Individual and collaborative work
• Workshop work
• Active participation and experimentation of participants are encouraged

• Classroom, multipurpose room, workshops with professional equipment
• Materials provided
• Individual and collaborative work
• Workshop work
• Active participation and experimentation of participants are encouraged