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Please pardon the broken links
Read more: Please pardon the broken linksThe website is undergoing some changes, I’m working on fixing broken links and reworking some of the site structure. This will be an on going process as I have years of content to fix and convert.
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Book Series Review: Historical Clothing From the Inside Out
Read more: Book Series Review: Historical Clothing From the Inside OutDisclaimer: I was sent a free copy of these books for review purposes. However, all thoughts, opinions, and criticisms are my own. The late 15th century is not my area of expertise even after making a few kirtles that I consider “in the style of”. So when I was asked to review a new series of books on the late 15th century I was very very eager. I love sinking my teeth into new research and learning techniques, especially for an era I have only passing knowledge in. The Books The two books in this series (one for men and…
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How to Repair Lace Trim
Read more: How to Repair Lace TrimThree weeks ago I purchased 4 yards of a wide black lace on Etsy. When it arrived I was happy with it, but on further inspection, I noticed it was torn badly over several of the motifs. I messaged the seller but never heard back. Now, I need every inch of the trim to go around the hem of a gown, getting more trim isn’t in my budget. The one I purchased was the right price and the right width. But I think I can rebuild it, with wash away stabilizer, some patience, and only a few broken needles. Materials: Paper…
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A 16th Century Kirtle in Olive Wool with Caramel Oversleeves
Read more: A 16th Century Kirtle in Olive Wool with Caramel OversleevesI started this kirtle in 2014/2015 cutting it from the leftover yardage of the olive fitted gown and an old bodice block I drafted on newspaper. This kirtle differs from ones I’ve made before in that it has a very full skirt (possibly too full) and half sleeves. Images from the Da Costa Book of Hours at the Morgan Library and Museum served as my main inspiration for the half sleeves. I did not try for the deep V back neckline, I have sloped shoulders and have had issues with the straps pulling if I go too low in the back. The…
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The First Embroidered Glove Cuff is Done!
Read more: The First Embroidered Glove Cuff is Done!Spangles, silver purl, silver plated thread I twisted into cord, and many yards of cream silk thread. The first cuff is done and now I get to do it all over again for the second cuff.
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A Green Linen Apron and some 17th Century Goldwork Embroidery Projects
Read more: A Green Linen Apron and some 17th Century Goldwork Embroidery ProjectsApril and most of May was a very stressful month for me. All my sewing projects went on hold and I tried to take the time to put myself and self-care first when I could. I’m starting to feel like I have more energy now, I’ve gotten some hand sewing done and started a few embroidery projects that will carry me out until the end of the year. First up is a simple linen apron in sage green. I hand sewed this all with white linen thread and clocked in at about 10 stitches per inch. Those hems are going nowhere.…
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16th Century Brass Pins
Read more: 16th Century Brass PinsFor Christmas, I got myself a butane-fueled jewelry torch along with brass wire of various gauges, gold colored hard solder, and other accouterments. I have several projects planned but for now, I need lots of practice with the torch. Brass pins are just the right amount of fiddleyness for a beginners project and each time I’ve made some I’ve learned something new. Also, shout out to Scott of The Renaissance Artisan for his in-depth work on the history of pins and pinners and who made this process much easier. I have in my collection a small 16th century Dutch pin that I am using as…
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Early 17th Century Glove Cuffs WiP
Read more: Early 17th Century Glove Cuffs WiP
