15th Century, Book Review, Costumes
Book Series Review: Historical Clothing From the Inside Out February 26, 2019

Disclaimer: 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 Read More Book Series Review: Historical Clothing From the Inside Out

Penny Dreadful, Sewing, Tutorials, Victorian
How to Repair Lace Trim September 22, 2018

Three 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 Read More How to Repair Lace Trim

16th Century, Costumes
A 16th Century Kirtle in Olive Wool with Caramel Oversleeves August 27, 2018

I 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 Ive made before in that it has a very full skirt (possibly too full) and half sleeves. Images from the Da Costa Book of Hours Read More A 16th Century Kirtle in Olive Wool with Caramel Oversleeves

17th Century, Costumes, Goldwork, Hand Embroidery
The First Embroidered Glove Cuff is Done! July 31, 2018

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.

17th Century, Free Motion Embroidery, Goldwork, Hand Embroidery, Hand Sewn
A Green Linen Apron and some 17th Century Goldwork Embroidery Projects May 31, 2018

April 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. Im starting to feel like I have more energy now, Ive gotten some hand sewing done and started a few embroidery Read More A Green Linen Apron and some 17th Century Goldwork Embroidery Projects

16th Century, Accessories, Costumes, Jewelry
16th Century Brass Pins February 26, 2018

For 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 Ive made some Ive Read More 16th Century Brass Pins

17th Century, Costumes
Early 17th Century Glove Cuffs WiP December 13, 2017
Costumes, Fantasy Costumes, Lord of the Rings
Return to Middle Earth: An Elven Gown of Twilight Velvet December 3, 2017

Continuing my habit of making surprise costumes for friends, I bought the fabric for this elven gown a month after I got married in 2014. It was listed as Twilight Navy Crinkle Velvet a name that cant get more elven. Read More Return to Middle Earth: An Elven Gown of Twilight Velvet

18th Century, Book Review
Book Review: The American Duchess Guide to 18th Century Dressmaking November 14, 2017

Disclaimer: I was sent a free copy of this book for review purposes. However all thoughts, opinions, and criticisms are my own. A long time ago Back when the internet was young, there was only a handful of books and websites to turn to if you had an interest in sewing 18th century clothing. Janet Read More Book Review: The American Duchess Guide to 18th Century Dressmaking

Free Motion Embroidery, Uncategorized
House Stark Sigil Embroidery November 11, 2017

Bear Island knows no king but the King in the North, whose name is Stark.