“Return to Craftsmanship: A Fashion Trend” - Exhibit Palmer Museum Springfield Library

When aspiring New Jersey handbag and shoe designers want to learn the fine craftsmanship behind their product, they come to classes at the New Jersey School of Fashion Design and Accessories (NJSFDA).  The director, Jennifer Siletski, founded the school years before there was a Project Runway or Project Accessory; the school has been open since 1998, and has helped shape the lives of over 200 students.  The NJSFDA student exhibit will be on display at the Donald B. Palmer Museum at the Springfield Free Public Library from January 9 through February 16, 2012.

On par with the leading fashion colleges in New York City, NJSFDA students learn how to take their original design from concept to finished product.  From her students’ sketches, Ms. Siletski teaches them how to develop patterns and then fabricate their designs.  After the first meeting, her students accompany her on a field trip to New York’s garment district and Flatiron section to hunt for their leather, lining, tools and handbag hardware.  During the visit they meet the owners of small businesses that have been servicing the industry for over 100 years.  Materials in hand, students return to the studio for intensive training in the patternmaking, cutting, gluing and sewing processes in order to make their bags.  The result is a well-made bag only distinguishable from one sold in Bloomingdale’s or Henri Bendel by the lack of a store label.  Ms. Siletski is a graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City.

The Donald B. Palmer Museum is located in the Springfield Free Public Library, 66 Mountain Ave., Springfield.  Hours of the exhibit are Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday 10a.m. to 8:30p.m. and Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday from 10a.m. to 4:30p.m. On Sundays, the Museum is open from 1:00 - 4:30p.m.  For information call (973) 376-4930.