APPRENTICESHIP SUMMARY
This apparel-focused apprenticeship will advance apprentice Chrystina Gastelum’s skills in flat pattern drafting, garment construction, and fashion production under the guidance of mentor Albert Nhan. Her goals include mastering measurement-taking and shirt pattern drafting with advanced manipulation techniques, refining sewing precision through improved construction methods, tool use, and material sourcing, and developing a functional marketing and sales channel for her work. Through 100 hours of one-on-one training in the mentor’s studio, Chrystina will build both technical expertise and a sustainable, professionally presented apparel practice.
MENTOR
Albert Nhan (Biddeford, Maine)
Albert Nhan is a skilled craftsperson, practicing textile craft in home, fashion and fashion accessories since 1998. His aesthetics appeal to discerning clients in Southern Maine as his work features a high level of precision in finishing and fit. The open studio in the Kennebunkport store sparks inquiry and conversation about the making process. His participation in the international procurement process, fashion shows and other events in Maine keep him rooted in both craft communities.
“Chrystina is a very creative person and has made many inventive and fun garments. I’m looking forward to helping her improve her precision and quality.” – Albert Nhan
APPRENTICE
Chrystina Gastelum (Biddeford, Maine)
Chrystina is an interdisciplinary artist focused on textiles and sustainability. From opera costumes to experimental fashion, she is drawn to materials with the least negative environmental impact. She has always used upcycled materials, and her work in corporate supply chains challenged her to think more holistically about how textiles are made. Through her community project Dirigo Linum, she has grown and processed flax to linen and dye plants since 2020. She is also a singer and licensed massage therapist.
“I have lived in Biddeford since 2017 and watched Albert’s business grow as a vital part of our downtown since 2019, which has been an inspiration for me. His work is very high quality and he is appreciated and respected in the community. Plus, we get along well and make each other laugh. He also has experience with directing a small team of makers who reproduce his designs, which is a skill I’m interested in learning. I’m drawn to Asian styling, and he’s native in that design language.” – Chrystina Gastelum