The Millinery Masterclass
The sacred tradition of apprenticeship. Five days. A new legacy.
This is not a workshop.
The Millinery Masterclass is a five-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 looks like
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 craftTools, materials, weights, and how to choose between themBlocking, shaping, and solving fit challengesAdvanced techniques and interior finishingDesign identity, brand ethos, and signature detail workHow to build a creative practice that is entirely your own
What You Leave With
Two complete fur felt hats — made by your own handsA supplies list with sourcing links to build your own kitPersonal mentorship throughout the weekA surprise from the atelierThe 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.”
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“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!”
“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.”
Upcoming Sessions
May 25—29, 2026
Monday through Friday
Alter Ego Luxury Hat Atelier
Three spots available
Includes all materials, tools, curriculum, mentorship, and lunch on the first day. Payment in full or two installment payments — both completed before your start date. Three women per session. When the session is full, it is full. The full investment is $4500.
Ventura, California
The atelier sits at 275 S. Laurel Street, steps from the Pacific. Everything you need for a week away is walkable — hotels, restaurants, the beach, the particular calm that coastal California does better than anywhere.
