Elizabethan Clothing's topics - tribe.net

How white is white?

2008-10-06T16:12:22Z

The conventional wisdom I've heard for decades is that our modern whites are too white to be plausible for the 16th century. Bridal white is too white. But wills, gift lists, etc. are full of "white" cloth and garments. And portraits show white clothing on nobles, some of which looks definitely white, not ivory. Is this because white paint was easier to make than white cloth, or because the painters were accurately depicting the color schemes of the portrait sitters' clothing?

It gets even more confusing thinking about the different bleaching processes and success levels of various materials. Is white wool the same color as white linen? And where on the spectrum does white silk fall? The Emperor of China is said to have worn white silk robes in his palace -- was white silk from China the same color as white silk from Italy?

I'm not looking to institute some fascist movement to make everyone wear period shades of white. I'm just genuinely wondering what the real story is.

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 3 replies

My google-fu fails me... Settings for applying gemstones to clothing

2008-10-05T16:28:38Z

I am not sure what word combinations would bring up the metal settings that work kind of backwards of what a bedazzler does... where the gems fit into a setting and are then attached so you see the setting around the gem.

Help?

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 12 replies

Cuff Buttons?

2008-10-03T16:22:01Z

I was just telling Elspeth that I do now and have for a very long time used buttons to close shirt sleeves for both men and women. I generally use a pair of 3/8" flat-topped pearl (shank style) buttons on each cuff. They close with needle-made loops--I can't think what they're really called but it's sort of a kind of macrame or needle lace thing that I think I learned from an old tailoring book. As worn, especially with sleeves, they're basically invisible, kind of like the side-lacing in a gown :-). Very chic.

Now I do this mainly because the men I sew for are all fighters and it's so much more convenient for them. Also, they say that's what they want, fine, I can do that. But I also do it on my own silk partlet/chemise/thing. SO much easier to live with than points. But here's the question. Is there any justification for this? I can't remember when I started do it if we had any documentation or not. Anybody got a portrait detail with a cuff and buttons anywhere?

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 46 replies

Emblems for a Queen: The Needlework of Mary Queen of Scots

2008-10-02T00:24:04Z

A new book available on www.artbooks.com

Just put the Item number in the search box or look it up on amazon or elswhere

Item Number: 57664
Title: Emblems for a Queen: The Needlework of Mary Queen of Scots
Author: Bath, Michael
Price: $60.00
ISBN: 9781904982364
Description: London: Archetype, 2008. 27cm., pbk., 172pp. illus., most in color

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 0 replies

semicircular dess cloaks

2008-10-01T23:27:51Z

On to another question!
I have many, beware.

I looked over the men's cloak section of POF, and noticed 2 totally different ones I wanted. One is a semicircular dress cloak that gets strapped under one armpit, and has a partial/full collar that folds over. The other is the military (spanish?) cloak that has radial embroidery and a very pointy hood.

My question being, has anyone ever heard of or seen one of the military cloaks being worn in a formal or court-like setting? Give me indefinitive enough answers, and I'll do it anyways! I will get wool, and applique some linen, and couch it, so there! And it will be worn under my cross-dressing armpit!

Also, ought I to do just trim embroidery, as it shows on all the POF dress cloaks, or has anyone seen radial embroidery on a dress cloak? Documentation for wither or is welcomed! (Note: if you site POF, I will have to shoot you, as a just said that was where I gleaned my info, and there is no proof in her book of the 2 being melded into a super useful cloak of frilly goodness)

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 0 replies

Fabric.com Linen on Sale

2008-10-01T05:28:42Z

http://www.fabric.com/creativity-headquarters-great-basics-apparel-lightweight-irish-linen.aspx

http://www.fabric.com/creativity-headquarters-great-basics-apparel-medium-weight-irish-linen-fabric.aspx

http://www.fabric.com/creativity-headquarters-great-basics-apparel-hanky-weight-irish-linen-fabric.aspx

I've purchased the Irish linen before...nice hand to it. $8.98 per yard isn't too bad, plus they've got free shipping on all orders over $35.

Becky/Beatrix

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 0 replies

Cluny or Torchon-Style Lace from Dharma

2008-09-27T16:22:47Z

http://www.dharmatrading.com/html/eng/3999675-AA.shtml?lnav=clothing.html

Just purchased 60 yards of this lace from Dharma and am very pleased with it.

Granted, it's rather rough, but it reads quite period (although it is, of course, machine-made and in cotton rather than linen).

I'd been doing a lot of poking around online for cotton Cluny-style lace, and was surprised to find this and as such reasonable prices. I ordered LH 29, LH 87, LH 106, LH 18, LYHM 18, and LH 85.

It is loose upon arrival, but boiling and starching it makes it tighten up quite a bit. There are ocassional irregularities (nothing major--just some inclusions). I think I found three in the 60 yards I ordered. Only one was a bit heavy (LH87), but it would work for a thicker weight fabric. The others were acceptable, especially given that Elizabethan lace was a bit on the rough side.

Starching eliminated the fuzz-factor you can encounter with cotton and I was able to put a nice iron-shine on it. I could have added wax to my starch, but wanted to see how it behaved with out-of-the-bottle Sta-Flo.

I'll be test driving it on some more ruffs I'll be making and will keep you posted, God willing and Tribes not going belly up.

I ordeerd on Tuesday and received my package on Wednesday (!!!). Granted, that's San Rafael to Napa, but still. I've always loved Dharma from back in my Procion dye Day-Glo punk rocker days in the late 70s.

I also bought a yard of their linen-cotton blend (quite nice) and some of the silk gauze (which Elspeth had recommended). The silk gauze is truly fairy fabric.

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 15 replies

pins pins pins

2008-09-27T05:08:05Z

In the Cuff Buttons discussion, Kimiko said: "I am finding all sorts of uses for those pins. I can even keep my French hood onto the top of my head with one pin, and no chin straps."

Do you find it's best to use handmade pins? Or will ordinary store-bought stainless steel straight pins do the trick?
I have a few handmade pins but I'm afraid to use them because you can't just run down to Joann's and pick up a few hundred more, and replaceing them can be kind of expensive. Is there a reliable sourc anywhere?

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 13 replies

Pinking and slashing ...

2008-09-25T19:39:23Z

Looking for some good online resources for pinking and slashing ... I am looking for examples, inspiration, design ideas blah blah blah

Anyone got a few good links to throw my way?

Thanks!

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 24 replies

Tabbed shoulders and such

2008-09-23T22:24:05Z

A laurel in my area has made these by taking a "roll" or folded strip of wool and sewing it to whatever edge she was decorating, then cutting it into tabs. So no hemming, no individual pieces.

She didn't elaborate on whether it was a period technique, or just easy.

Thoughts?

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 17 replies

Pattern Paper ...

2008-09-23T00:59:34Z

Ok I hate using wrapping paper. It's slick and hard to write on with a pencil. It's patterned so you usually can't see thru it and it's fairly wimpy and tends to be resistant to unfolding once it's been folded. If you iron it to flatten it - it gets all wonky and smells funny.

I hate using paper bags because I tend to do costumes for big people and I find it so offensive when I have to tape a couple of them together (or more) for pattern pieces. Plus after a while they fall apart ....

I USED to use this really nice butchers paper that I *LOVED* but I had ganked the roll from my Mom ... who could never remember where she got the paper from so I could buy more. Where the heck DO you buy that stuff from anyway?

Last year, I talked the doctor into letting me 'steal' a roll of the moderately resilient tissue paper that they roll out onto the exam tables - it worked well but it was a little too narrow. Getting squares of tissue paper is inconvenient at best. The lighter paper IS nice though because it doesnt create such a bulk when I put the patterns in my drawer. Paper bag patterns tend to take up more space.

So what do you use for pattern paper?

I'm asking because I'm out and the time is soon upon me to begin my sewing season.

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 21 replies

Online Fabric Sale

2008-09-12T17:33:14Z

Fabric.com has wools & wool blends for 30% off:
http://www.fabric.com/inventory-reduction-sale.aspx?cm_re=9/11/2008-_-Home-_-Inventory%20Reduction

Becky/Beatrix

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 2 replies

That Which We Wear, By Any Other Name...

2008-09-11T23:36:05Z

Please excuse (and help to dissipate) my ignorance... could someone explain the clothing item referred to as a "pair of bodies" to me? There are pics in The Tudor Tailor... which look like corsets. Is this another word, a specific style of corset? Of late I've been learning how much I don't know about Elizabethan clothing - especially for court!

Never mind that 20-some years ago at Northern, someone told me that a "Partlet" was a noble's shirt, worn instead of a shift... caused quite a bit of confusion.

I would love the correct names for the various pieces of clothing I now wear - if someone doesn't mind taking the time!

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 61 replies

Paned slops/trunkhose: two questions (or maybe three)... well, ok, four, really.

2008-09-11T13:51:11Z

I'm sure I'm overanalyzing this, but here goes:

1. Dip in the front to accommodate doublet: JA mentions this, Margo's pattern ignores it, Period Patterns has it on the outer fabric piece but the waistband is a regular rectangular strip, and the Tudor Tailor has a dip-shaped waistband. What works/has worked for you? Or is it really not a problem?

2. Annoyance/chafing factor:
a. Different patterns have the lining seam at different points (inseam, back seam, inseam and outseam, etc. What works best for you? Does having the seam in a certain part create irritation from sitting or walking?
b. For the panes, do you decorate the panes that go in the areas between the legs to the same degree as those outside? Seems like they would rub, not good for comfort or for the panes.

3. Do you generally line the skin-most lining (to give body/strength)? What about the underlay/pretty part that shows between the panes? I'm using a medium weight linen for the lining and a light-weight silk lawn for the underlay.

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 30 replies

Lace and Hats

2008-09-04T01:42:15Z

Does anyone have documentation of lace being used on hats in Elizabethan England? Pictures/links are a plus.

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 2 replies

Chevrons on Doublets

2008-09-04T01:24:51Z

Does anyone have visual references (i.e. portraits or woodcuts) for Elizabethan doublets with large chevrons? I see them at Faires and have been asked to make one, but have not found one period rendition of a doublet with trim/guards eminating from the shoulders / armscye and ending at CF hem. I've seen chevrons, but they are smaller and more like an all-over pattern, usually with slashing and such.

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 13 replies

Doublet-style Gown

2008-08-29T16:13:14Z

My wife is thinking about having a doublet-style gown made, and I was wondering if some of you knowledgeable folks might help us. First of all, does anyone know how these types of bodices were fastened (in the front or the back)? Also, can anyone point out some period-appropriate examples? Merci.

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 16 replies

Doin' the happy dance!!

2008-08-27T21:47:14Z

I'm SO excited! I finally splurged and got Margot Anderson's patterns. The whole Elizabethan ladies package with the men's as well.

Started going through the directions and all, and they are SO wonderfully clear and informative I could just swoon.

Finally, something to work on without having to futz around with commercial knock-off patterns. I forsee a lot of sewing, and a diminishing fabric stockpile in my future!

Now if I could just figure out how to get my stupid pictures down to a size that tribe will accept!

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 13 replies

wearing the forepart

2008-08-24T02:22:48Z

The question I'm pondering is: how is the forepart attached for wearing?

I've always joined the outer edges of the forepart to an underskirt, the rest of which then acts as a sort of petticoat to the underskirt. Not for show, but the extra drape of the fabric can help make the silhouette of the overskirt look slightly fuller and sleeker. Not to mention making sure the overskirt never gets hung up on the hoops of the farthingale. But I didn't do it this way out of any research, it was just the way everyone else was doing when I learned back in the early '80s. An extra underskirt makes for extra bulk around the waist too.

Now I am looking at Janet Arnold, where there are only two examples of patterns for foreparts. Neither of them is attached to anything else, nor do they appear to be intended to be part of a petticoat. One photograph shows a forepart that looks as though it might be hooked or buttoned directly to a Spanish farthingale (the narrower silhouette of the early reign). And in fact the farthingale pattern shows a much less gathered, more tailored cut to the farthingale than I suspect most of us have worn or made. So it might be suitable to attach the forepart directly to the farthingale, and then tie the edges of the overskirt over the edges of the forepart to create the proper look. Has anyone done it that way?

Or am I just losing my mind?

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 1 reply

Bodies for sale (1 pair)

2008-08-20T19:46:48Z

I'll be posting this in a few other places as well, hoping to find a good home for this item. Please feel free to forward or repost to any relevant groups, lists, etc.

One Pair of bodies for sale, early to middle Tudor shape.
New, never worn, custom made in non-smoking house
$150 or best reasonable offer, open to barter

Measurements:
Bust 39 inches or greater
Waist 32 inches or greater
Center front length 10.5 inches
Side armpit to waist length 6 inches
Top neckline width 13 inches between strap points

This is for a very short waisted lady,
please check your measurements carefully.

2 layers of unbleached 100% cotton duck, prewashed, with 28 hand cut bones,
6 of which are rust-proofed steel
22 hand stitched eyelets for center-back lacing in a spiral fashion
12 hand stitched eyelets for attachment of removable straps, included
top edge bound with yale blue bias tape, to match eyelets

This was a commissioned piece which was almost finished when the lady
who ordered it left my group and didn't need one anymore.
That was a few years back and I'm tired of carrying it around.

For any other questions please email.

Thanks,

Michele

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 0 replies

Elizabethan Ladies Riding / Hunting Outfit

2008-08-19T23:31:24Z

i'm looking for any information, patterns, pictures of an Elizabethan Riding / Hunting Outfit. i've googled only pic i found of something i might like is a side view. Any information will be appreciated.
Thanks in advance.

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 14 replies

Clothing in the Court of Henry VIII - Masques & Christmas Festive Attire (Lord of Misrule)

2008-08-19T19:42:59Z

Before I post a whole lot in this vein, I wanted to make sure that items from Henry VIII would be acceptable as part of the 'Tudor' umbrella of this group? I have a nice little reference that I have been reading through and wanted to share if it was alright?

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 30 replies

German Gowns

2008-08-19T15:21:44Z

Posting for a friend who is going to make a German style gown for she and a friend. The pattern claims that "corsetry or stays were not worn" and we're thinking this is a load of bunk. We just don't believe the aristocratic class would have been that different than those of England and France, who did wear support garments. The pics she has just don't have any body wrinkles!

References anyone?

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 18 replies

techniques

2008-08-15T05:36:47Z

so, there are several things which i really want to learn how to do, for elizabethan clothing as well as modern fashion.

1.) Sewing things so they are reversable. What's the best way to make a seam so that it can be turned inside out and be presentable? I was at Saturday Market yesterday, and there were these hats that were very neatly done... I have several other projects that I want to make this way.

2.) Encasing boning... I've just never done it, and the directions I've found online are pretty vague. any tips?

many thanks!

nadia

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 52 replies

Spain

2008-08-08T19:45:03Z

http://www.geo.de/GEO/heftreihen/geo_epoche/57402.html

The topic of the German magazine, Geo Epoche, this issue is "When Spain ruled the World" and it's chock full of images. So, valuable even if you can't read German. $15 I highly recommend it!

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 0 replies

Elizabethan tall hat

2008-08-03T23:47:13Z

I'd like to hear how folks are making their Elizabethan tall hats. I can block felt, but felt a blocked felt hat covered in velvet plus a lining would bake my little skull. There's buckram, but I don't have a ton of expeience blocking that. Lynn McMasters has given me some tips (via GBACG), but would like to know what others have done.

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 25 replies

Cartridge Pleating Dilemma

2008-08-02T19:32:09Z

I'm sure SOMEone out there in Costumeland has a recommendation for my cartridge pleating dilemma. I'm used to cartridge pleating on a smaller scale, but I've now got a wool crepe skirt lined with silk about 120" at the waist that is presenting questions for attachment to the waistband. It's for a Ren gown and I want to attach the skirt and bodice, so I've used 2" belting that won't show. There are 11" between CF and SF/SS either side of CF that aren't pleated, but the rest is hand pleated @ 1" intervals (tried 1/2" with tape and it was way too big).

Here's the question: I've seen online pretty much only one attachment technique and that is to whip stitch the top of the pleat to the bottom of the waistband and let the bottom of the pleat hang. Won't the pleats get all wonked out when worn by pushing against the body and bum roll? I've attached the BOTTOM of the pleats to the BOTTOM of the waistband and was going to then attach the TOP of the pleats to the middle of the waistband so the top profile of the pleats essentially butt up against the waistband. Will I run into any problems if I do this? The 2" belting is totally able to handle the weight...just wondering if the pleats will sit funny or wear poorly.

Thanks!
Carol

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 46 replies

New Italian Renaissance Clothing Book

2008-07-29T16:00:55Z

New in the listing of wonderful books from www.artbooks.com

Go to the site and place the item number in the search box to see the cover.
Item Number: 57207
Title: Mores Italiae : Costumi e scene di vita del Rinascimento. Costume and Life in the Renaissance : Yale University, Beinecke Library, MS. 457
Author: Rippa Bonati, Maurizio ; Valeria Finucci (eds)
Price: $160.00
ISBN: 9788888064772
Description: Cittadella: Biblos, 2007. 33cm., hardcover, 230pp., 105 color plates. Italian-English text.

Yet another book I cannot currently afford sheesh!

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 0 replies

What are you working on?

2008-07-29T15:09:42Z

We'd all love to know!

I'm about to cut grey suede that was a gift, to make slops and doublet. Hope to mimic Bothwell's in Elizabet R

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 45 replies

Stitch in nine saves...

2008-07-26T07:28:56Z

Everyone a large headache. I've had one for the past week and I've decided to say screw it and try to do something about my misery...so,

How many of you find the right fabric but chew your nails down to the stumps wondering what to do with it. Maybe it's an idea that needs tweaking or you just need a little extra help and those pesky classes are too far or too expensive. So what can we do about it? We've all talked about doing "Stitch & Bitches" but I rarely see them happening in the major Oakland/Berkeley area. I've got a place in the Lake Merritt area and I would like to get one going. It could travel or stay put. We could just talk, watch historical movies for ideas ( or for the really bad ones drink wine and kvetch ), basically commiserate - the more the merrier. IF you have any ideas please pm me or leave general interest in a response.

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 8 replies

Let's Get Some Shoes

2008-07-17T05:04:11Z

So a few people liked the ren faire shoes that I wore to the last guild meeting, and turns out the company is still around, has a website, gives you the option of ordering either the usual styles, modifying those usual styles (some of the modifications are free - there's also an option for an all-leather sole and heel if you want to avoid the rubber sole), ordering the usual styles but customized to fit your feet perfectly (just send in foot tracings according to their instructions and pay some extra), or a complete custom made shoe.

Here's the website!
http://www.fernandfootwear.com/

Oh, and my mom got them 20 years ago, and she's NOT the type to buy shoes and barely wear them, and they're still in fantastic condition.

And just because it's catchy... (though not exactly work safe because of a couple swear words)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wCF3ywukQYA

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 22 replies

Costume Colloquium: Tribute to Janet Arnold etc.

2008-07-16T02:44:48Z

I'm going! http://www.costume-textiles.com/pages/page.asp?lang=2

***** Anybody wanna share a room in Florence? *****

I'm also taking a quick jaunt to Berne to see the Abegg-Stiftung special exhibit of 16th - 18th c. garments (posted photos from their brochure last week): http://www.abegg-stiftung.ch/e/museum/sonderaus.html

Yippee!!!

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 18 replies

I am apparently a millinery idiot...

2008-07-12T02:13:08Z

*insert large eyeroll*

I'm trying to make a cap. One of those danged Mary Queen of Scot's type attifets. You'd think I was trying to perform nuclear physics, or learn to speak a foreign language! Sheesh!

I can make flat caps, tall hats, pillbox hats and whatnot. WHY can't I seem to figure out this relatively SIMPLE piece of headgear??

Do any of you have any tips? For some reason the TT instructions on this particular type of cap are confusing me, and the instructions in the Janet Winter Elizabethan Costuming book yield a piece of junk. This is really frustrating!

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 39 replies

smooth bodice fronts - how is it done?

2008-07-03T23:55:19Z

I'm sure there is a site I could go to but does anyone just have a few good suggestions?

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 13 replies

Compendium in Paperback!

2008-07-02T19:46:55Z

Pardon the cross posting, but I want to get this out to as many interested parties as possible, and we know not everyone is on Snobs :-)
================

The Compendium of Common Knowledge 155801603, as web fans already know, is a series of snapshots of daily life in the court and countryside of Shakespeare and Good Queen Bess, written for the everyday reader. Painstakingly researched and illustrated from period sources, each page dishes up details about food, language, games, and gossip, as well as the work, weddings, and beliefs of more than 400 years ago. There’s a detailed index to make it easy to use, plus notes on the sources so you can find out more. This new paperback version even features a bonus chapter on persona building that’s perfect for guildmasters and authors both.

Available right now from Popinjay Press at http://elizabethan.org/compendium/paperback.html or your favorite bookseller
ISBN: 978-0981840109

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 0 replies

New Book French Medieval Clothing

2008-07-01T21:06:32Z

From www.artbooks.com

Catalog Number: 56856
Title: The Depiction of Clothing in French Medieval Manuscripts
Author: Gathercole, Patricia M
Price: $99.95
ISBN: 9780773450141
Description: Lewiston: Edwin Mellen Press, 2008. 24cm., hardcover, 97pp., 26 plates, 1 in color.
Quantity: Purchase Order (optional):
You will be able to remove items later.

View Listing with Cover Image
View Book Cart
Back to top

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 0 replies

Tying one on, e.g. sleeves, revisited

2008-07-01T01:33:09Z

I am re-thinking how I am attaching sleeves to garments this summer. There was a thread about this last year:

http://tribes.tribe.net/elizabethan_clothing/thread/d2c5d46f-cc1d-49ce-a1b0-0f7d34aeea0c

but it never seemed to answer the question, what was the *period* method of doing this? I would like to use points attached to the sleeve, ties through eyelets hidden under the shoulders, but is there any documentation for this?

Here are my druthers:
I like detachable sleeves, easier to change them as the occasion requires and the aeration is nice.
This would be for both men's doublets and women's bodices.

Variables:
eyelets or rings?
how many per sleeve?
just around the top, or down around the rest of the back of the armscye?
under the cap sleeve/peccadils or back under the shoulder proper?
on a placket, or right through the garment (if eyelets on the shoulder proper?

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 52 replies

Linen bias tape

2008-06-30T02:33:26Z

Oh my! This could be useful
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=12509306

This turned up on the H-Costume list, and I immediately thought of all y'all.

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 39 replies

Lovely Crimson Red

2008-06-28T12:07:45Z

Thought I'd chime in on the red issue. Have you read "A Perfect Red" by Amy Greenfield? FAAAAscinating read. Is cochineal still available as a dye stuff today?

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 13 replies

fixing ugly linen?

2008-06-25T19:21:00Z

Help!
The good news:
I just got 5 yrds of 60-wide off white linen for $1.50 at Salvation Army!!! (total, not per yard!)

The bad news:
It's got an ugly floral print on one side.

The print is really light in color and depth, so I want to try to remove it.
I'm thinking bleach...

I know that repeated bleaching damages cotton fiber, but I have no idea about how much bleaching might weaken linen.

Has anybody done this before? Have any advice?

If I can't get the pattern out, the stuff'll still be usefull for linings and undies, but it would be super to have it plain.

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 17 replies

Elizabethan seams

2008-06-23T21:29:31Z

You all may be aware of this site, but just in case:
http://www.extremecostuming.com/articles/theelizabethanseam.html

The technique looks especially useful for gussets and other complicated intersections.

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 16 replies

Transparent over-sleeves

2008-06-21T01:48:24Z

While we were talking about linen for ruffs and things, I sidetracked myself, apparently, into thinking about what to use to protect embroidered sleeves that would be as transparent as the paintings seem to show. I mean, it eeds to be as clear as water, pretty much, and where would that come from. Well this morning, while looking for something else of course, I came across this. Silk tulle.

http://www.anjooriansilks.com/gallery/detail.asp?iCat=11&iPic=2779 I don't want to think about the price... They don't even post them.

or this one
http://www.victorianfashions.com/silktulle.html

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 19 replies

show and tell

2008-06-15T15:43:44Z

im sitting here ready to pull my hair out, making some of the silliest mistakes while sewing. and then it occured to me how many of us have hemmed a whole circle skirt before we realized we had no bobbin thread? how may of us have sewn things inside out upside down and backwards?

its time to share...

maybe others wont make the same mistakes, maybe it will just spread some smiles...

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 45 replies

Little Panes

2008-06-15T04:35:42Z

I noticed Rebecca's comment on one of the Italian gentlemen Pax posted in the Photos tab. It made me think of another portrait with similar paning in the sleeves and I finally found it. Of course, it's a pic of the Queen! Anyway, I posted it as a detail of interest.

http://tribes.tribe.net/elizabethan_clothing/photos/e27a88c5-5c4f-4ecd-9287-11153fc0aaef

Mind you, I had to scan it and I only have a B&W version (at least, I stopped looking when I found one. There may be another here, I odn't know. In any case I couldn't find it online anywhere.

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 12 replies

New Working Class Garb

2008-06-15T00:46:31Z

I'm going working class for Pennsic this year. This dress is one of them--tropical weight wool, lined with linen. Completely hand-sewn. (And almost finished--just need to sew on the guard and hem it!)

http://www.afaireattire.com/DiaryPage.html

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 8 replies

quirkes

2008-06-13T15:14:23Z

Anyone out there have any information on what are the quirkes pointed to on page 539 of Herbert Norris' Tudor Costume and Fashion? They look to be blackworked designs on the stockings but I don't want to generalize or assume if someone out there can help me to be more accurate.
Thank you,
Jo Graden

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 5 replies

Bodice for sale....

2008-06-11T08:09:33Z

I have a front lace Pendragon bodice for sale. It is black leather and has picadilles on it. It has only been worn 2 or 3 times. Looks like the one at the link below. Asking $75 or best offer.

It is a size SMALL

http://www.pendragoncostumes.com/Merchant2/graphics/photos/pic_blk.gif

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 0 replies

Elizabethan portraits

2008-06-10T16:06:20Z

I'd like recommendations for books showing Elizabethan garments, preferrably really really good reproductions of portraits. I bought one of the books "Pax" recommended (now can't recall the title) and have "Moda," but need more resources for women's clothing. I want to see trim more clearly and want a greater variety than the same old Lizzie portraits one sees everywhere.

Anything??

Thanks!

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 4 replies

Garment District Fire ...

2008-06-09T17:59:01Z

If anyone knows ... what are the intersections where the fire was? ... wanna make sure my favorite vendors arent hurt. I'd cry.

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 5 replies

Fete at Bermondsey

2008-06-08T21:09:29Z

Our Kate just posted what has to be the best version of this painting EVER at Wikimedia Commons.

http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Image:Joris_Hoefnagel_Fete_at_Bermondsey_c_1569.png
http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Image:Joris_Hoefnagel_Fete_at_Bermondsey_c_1569.jpg

Provenance: I purchased a 10x14 giclee print from AllPosters.com and had it copied at a very good pre-press service here in Hollywood. Dick worked some magic on it for the Compendium cover. Then Kate shrank it down and made it available. Use the png version for detailed examination.The jpg version will fit nicely on a desktop.

x-posting with Snobs

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 0 replies

Men's Italian Noble clothing

2008-06-07T02:02:49Z

The boy wants a set of Italian nobles for a graduation present, paned trunk hose and all. I'm up for it, sewing-wise, but I have a couple of general questions about styles.

1. Most of the portraits I can find seem to be either Italian or French. Was there a substantial difference in fashion between the continent and England?

2. What were the major changes in men's clothing styles in the couple of decades after 1560?

3. What is the least ruffage we can get away with?

4. The outfits I have seen all appear to be pretty monochromatic, which seems rather "blue boy" and boring to me. Would it be permissible to have a contrasting lining to the trunkhose (the stuff that shows between the panes)? What about contrasting trim?

5. What period/nationality were canions appropriate for?

6. Your opinion on a muted warm green textured (not brocade) silk for a auburn-haired young man (the contrast, if allowable, would be rust)?

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 41 replies

Frost apon greene

2008-06-04T22:04:07Z

In my search for the proper color of livery for Leicester's servants, in his account books I came across an entry for livery fabric being distributed to a list of his people which was described as "frost apon greene" cloth.

Frost upon green. What do you suppose this would look like?

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 3 replies

Tableware resources

2008-06-04T18:25:22Z

Ok, I know it's not strictly costume related, but it is prop related! I need pewter / silver tableware (appropriate knife, forchette, spoon, goblet/julip cup, plate/bowl). Any online resources? I've tried fugawee.com, but the style seems a little late.
Thanks!
C

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 3 replies

Pregnancy and Peasants

2008-06-04T00:10:06Z

If this question has been asked and answered before, please forgive me. I searched through the info here, and didn't see anything that pertained to peasants and pregnancy.

By the time NCRF begins, I will be about 6 months pregnant, and I would appreciate any information as to what was worn by female English peasants during pregnancy as none of my current wardrobe will fit me at that time. If it helps at all, I'm a boothie working at archery.

How did peasants accommodate an expanding midriff? Is it just a matter of wearing a larger bodice? Or were larger, looser garments worn?

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 2 replies

Fur!

2008-05-29T02:02:10Z

Hopefully no one will get their PeTA panties in a wad, but I'd like to discuss the uses of fur on period clothes.

I've seen mens short coats lined, and of course trim on various different garments. But not always what sort of fur it might have been, or what would be allowable and AVAILABLE to those of say.... minor Nobility?

And I do have sources for aquiring good pelts, but they're not cheap, and I don't want to squander cash if for some things a top quality fake would do just as well.

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 52 replies

OT X-POST online archive of Scotland's Parliamentary activities 13th - 18th cent.

2008-05-14T16:35:58Z

This is a little off-topic but there might be some textiley info in this.... who knows!

Published Date: 11 May 2008 By Jeremy Watson

FUEL shortages dog the country and MSPs face scandals over expenses and falling standards.
Tolls over the Firth of Forth are a major issue and worries over health, education and the environment get a constant airing. Money concerns beset the electorate and politicians are urged to act. Excessive intake of alcohol is a rising cause for concern.

Welcome to the Scottish Parliament – hundreds of years ago.

The first ever complete online archive of Scotland's Parliamentary activities between the 13th and 18th centuries will be published this week and it reveals that little has changed in the nation's affairs over the past 300 years. A small army of researchers, led by Keith Brown, professor of Scottish history at St Andrews University, has spent the past 11 years turning 16.5 million words covering meetings, minutes and legislative acts discussed by the old Scottish parliaments into an easily-accessible online archive.

They found that Mary, Queen of Scots was so concerned about the kind of fuel shortages that threatened Scotland's economy just two weeks ago that in 1563 she outlawed the export of coal.

To reduce the physical risk of injury when heated debates broke out in the Parliamentary chamber, the only weapon that MSPs were allowed to take into the building was a sword, the documents record.

To curb excessive drinking, those found in public houses after 10pm could be subjected to corporal punishment or fined, according to a 1617 law.

The £1m project was sanctioned by the then Conservative Secretary of State for Scotland, Michael Forsyth, as one of his last acts in office, with the aim of producing a new version of the obsolete 19th century printed edition of pre-Union Parliamentary proceedings in Scotland.

The work, The Records of the Parliaments of Scotland, which will be launched by deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon this week, provides a fascinating glimpse of life in Scotland and also shows that many of the issues concerning the 2008 Holyrood Government are not exclusive to the 21st century.

Brown said: "Arguably, human nature doesn't change that much and neither do institutions. The make up of the chamber may have been very different, with all wealthy men, no women and no ethnic minorities, but many of the preoccupations were not that much different to those of today."

Scholars attempted a similar exercise in the 19th century in a project that produced a series of bound volumes between 1814 and 1875. But the new version has added records of meetings in a missing 60-year stretch in the 16th century as well as Parliamentary and committee minutes not previously published.

Brown said: "When you think the last version took more than half a century and ours 11 years then we didn't do badly but, of course, they did not have access to modern technology."

There were hurdles to overcome, including translating documents from Latin, French and Old Scots to modern English and running out of funds.

"We started under the Conservatives, got more support from Labour and finished the work under the Scottish National Party," Brown said. "That shows what all-round support there has been for a project that will help students and the public to understand our nation for many years to come."

PARLIAMENTARY STANDARDS

Debates in Parliament could often become heated, as opposing parties engaged in arguments and squabbles that would be familiar to today's MSPs. In response to what was thought to be a decline in standards, Parliament passed a series of acts setting out appropriate behaviour. One article decreed that the only weapons allowed within the chamber were to be members' swords. To curb verbal personal attacks, and for "eschewing of contest and hate", speakers were ordered to direct their comments to be members' swords. To president of Parliament or lord chancellor (equivalent to today's Presiding Officer or Speaker) rather than individual members.

TRANSPORT

The state of the highways was a constant concern, given these were vital for trade and general travelling throughout the country. In 1669, the repair of the country's roads was contracted out to parishioners themselves, who were to meet after church on Sunday suitably equipped with picks and shovels. Each parishioner was to work on the roads no more than six days per year, always outwith sowing and harvest time when manual labour was at a premium.

HEALTH

DISEASE was often rampant in Scotland's major towns. Plague was the most feared, and Parliament itself was forced in 1645 to decant to St Andrews because of an outbreak in its traditional home of Edinburgh.

Bo'ness was effectively locked down in 1645 due to the danger of the disease spreading beyond its bounds, and any infected person who attempted to leave was ordered to be shot and killed.

Basic environmental health legislation was passed by Parliament to stop the spread of disease.

Edinburgh was described as "a puddle of filth and filthiness" in 1621 due to candle-makers openly burning their tallow and "corrupting the air" and by butchers disposing of refuse in the public highway.

ALCOHOL ABUSE

Excessive drinkers and "haunters of taverns" were legislated against by a series of 17th century acts. Those found in public houses after 10pm were to be subject to corporal punishment or imprisonment.

CRIME

Parliament had important judicial functions, especially before the Court of Session was founded in 1532.

The gathered estates could pronounce judgment on the most minor cases of theft right up to treason, for which it had particular responsibility.

It was a court like the House of Lords today and corporal punishment was often favoured, even for seemingly trifling transgressions.

Blasphemers, for example, could face a spell in the stocks or the 'jougs' – a hinged collar attached to the neck and chained to a post, often situated in a busy public thoroughfare for maximum humiliation. The wearing of sackcloth was also ordered in 1695 as a public display of penitence for those who transgressed strict church laws. Beggars, especially, could face particularly harsh punishment if they were found wandering unlawfully from parish to parish.

The penalty for those apprehended included that their "ears be nailed to the tron or to another tree and their ears cut off and banished from the country".

EDUCATION

THE first education act, which was passed in 1496, allowed the sons of wealthy landowners to be educated from the age of eight. The quality of teachers was addressed in 1567, with each to be assessed for competence by the Kirk. In the mid-17th century, parliament legislated for the founding of a school in every parish, with parishioners supplying the cost of the schoolhouse and the teacher's salary. A primitive kind of PTA/school board was to be set up to ensure that this was done.

CREDIT CRUNCH

Monetary worries afflicted 16th-century consumers as much as those of today. In the late 16th century, Parliament acted to limit the interest on the lending of money to 10%, since "exorbitant and immoderate interest" had been "the cause of the ruin and decay of many".

Profiting at a rate higher than this was decreed to be an actual sin "not tolerable in a reformed and Christian commonwealth".

ENVIRONMENT

Environmental concerns were frequently addressed by parliament, even if the impetus behind such acts was preserving species for hunting and food. Many acts were made forbidding destruction of habitats, including burning of moorland, felling of young trees and cropping of broom. Legislation was also passed against the poaching of rabbits, bees and their hives, pigeons and fish from others' land.

FUEL SHORTAGES

An act passed by parliament in the reign of Mary Queen of Scots (1563) records a "most exorbitant dearth and scantness of fuel" within Scotland, because coal was commonly used in empty ships for ballast. The act outlawed any export of coal beyond that to be used for fire in the ship's voyage. It was, however, ineffectual. In 1609, James VI reissued the earlier act passed in his mother's reign, stating that through excessive exports coal had risen to "an extraordinary dearth and price and by all appearance the whole coal within this kingdom shall in a very short time be wanted and consumed, to the great hurt and prejudice of the whole estate".

PARLIAMENTARY EXPENSES

Parliamentary representatives prior to 1707 were, like their equivalent today, entitled to claim expenses for any outlay incurred while attending a session.

An act of 1428 ordered commissioners' expenses to be paid by the shires that sent them. The cost of ceremonial dress (specifically foot-mantles of velvet, a kind of long cloak worn while mounted on horseback) for the riding of Parliament procession was also to be met by constituents.

In 1633, after complaints that constituents weren't paying up because they were unsure of a reasonable amount, the Scottish privy council ordered that, for the forthcoming Parliament, each commissioner should have a lump sum of 300 merks, the equivalent of £16.67, roughly £2,170 in today's money, for general expenses.

A NEW PARLIAMENT

Before the early 17th century, Parliament traditionally met in the Old Tolbooth, which stood near the north-west corner of Parliament Square in Edinburgh. But the increase in numbers called out for a purpose-built venue, and in 1632 Charles I ordered the city to build a new chamber. Similar to its modern counterpart, this Parliament House (located near St Giles' Cathedral) was over-budget and behind schedule when it held its first meeting in 1639.

TOLLS OVER RIVERS FORTH AND TAY

The issue of tolls over the rivers Forth and Tay was controversial, although it was rates for ferries rather than bridges that parliament investigated. Profiteering was a problem even in the 15th century. An act of James III (1474) decreed the individual personal fare could be no more than two pennies for people and six pennies for animals.

A later act of Mary Queen of Scots (1552) stated that the excessive tolls imposed by the ferrymen of Queensferry, Kinghorn and Dundee were a 'great and heavy oppression' on the country. Tolls were therefore to be reduced.

The full article contains 1684 words and appears in Scotland On Sunday newspaper.
Page 1 of 1

* Last Updated: 10 May 2008 10:53 PM
* Source: Scotland On Sunday

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 4 replies

N00b with questions

2008-05-08T19:28:39Z

Not really new to costuming, but to this tribe, yes.

Q1. Whose made a countwork partlet? Sources for patterns for the shape as well as the embroidery. Doesn't have to be English, can be German/Italian whatever

Q2. Whose made a loose gown? What kind? I want to make one with a high collar, hanging sleeves and tabbed shoulders/rolls/epaulettes. I am just tentative about decor, because I want it to be silk or wool, and getting damasks with those fibres is very expensive. So maybe some sort of trim patterns with beading and such.

Thank you everyone ahead of time!

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 6 replies

OT-Sorta: Fashion - A History from the 18th to the 20th Century

2008-05-01T15:42:33Z

So....a particular red-headed goddess of our collective acquaintance, in honor of my reaching the half-century mark, has presented me with a copy of "The Collection of the Kyoto Costume Institute - Fashion - A History from the 18th to the 20th Century," 2006 Taschen.

Although it doesn't cover our period in depth, it is a "must look at" for the quality of the items depicted and for the manner in which they're presented. It's so Japanese!

I've looked at a lot of textile and costume books in my 50 years, and this one, without a doubt, is the best I've ever seen. The mannequins on which the items are displayed are works of art themselves.

There is an almost unbelievable wealth of detail in the photos that has left me speechless (yes, I know, that's hard to believe). I've only been able to glance through it a few times today (it's thick, 700-plus pages, mostly photos).

Anyone who sews is going to freak, and it is so liberating to look at some very transparent construction techniques which are so not sewing machine driven. Fraying, pinking, wadding, tacking, applied detail, embroidery on fabric with both woven-in and printed designs (sometimes both).

Some of the trimming and fabric manipulation in the 18th and 19th century sections is just mind boggling.

And you can see the rough hand stiching everywhere. The pictures are that good.

And then the 20th century takes off into cutting and machine construction, including Poiret, Fortuny (it makes you want to spit with jealousy) and Vionnet, up through Miyake and Comme des Garcons (my drag of choice in the 80s) with all that fabric manipulation using lasers and burn outs, etc.

I'm just dumbfounded.

I'm sure this treasure was hideously expensive (missy, I'm going to beat you!!!!!), but you might be able to get it via inter-library loan. It is well worth the effort to seek out. You will not regret it. And you'll find tons of ideas to use in our period.

And since my benefactrix knows that old men cannot live by beauty alone, I also got a whole fish griller for the bbq (and a bunch of other cool stuff) in my birthday box as well.

PERFECTION, THY NAME IS E-BEETLE!

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 3 replies

Trick to Keeping Silk Crisp

2008-05-01T02:11:10Z

My friend and Assistant Guildmaster (when I was running Court) is am AMAZING costumer as well as designer and has come up with some of the best tips and tricks. When she sent this to me, I wanted to share because her things all turn out so wonderful.

"I always prewash my fabrics. Always. All of them. Trims, too.

That said, if you prewash silks (a stellar idea, in my humble opinion), sometimes they lose their body and crisp drape. Thus, my new trick :
If you add about a quarter of a package of plain gelatin to the final rinse, the silks come back with their original shine and body. Dissolve the gelatin in a bit of boiling water, add some cool water to cool it down before you dump it in. Line-dry the silk, and press with a dry iron when slightly damp. Jell-o!!! who knew?
NOTE: don't try this on existing costume pieces that haven't been prewashed. The idea is to preshrink the silk before you cut it out.

If you knew this already, well... I'd never heard of it before, and it works wonderfully. We need to share our tricks, since we don't exactly have lots of fellow dressmakers to learn our craft from. It's mostly making it up as we go along. I try lots of things that don't work, but thank goodness, some do. I learned this trick from a grandmotherly Japanese woman, Yukio Sarada, who washes her kimono and the silk looks like new. "

So I'm going to do this in the future!

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 9 replies

Source for Corset/Bodies reed

2008-04-30T20:33:21Z

I have always done my corsets/boned bodies with cable ties (which I find are the best for me) and before that with coated steel as boning.

Now, I am looking for a source for reeds to bone my next pair of bodies.

Can anyone recommend a source or two?

Thanks!
Valerie

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 18 replies

A new topic

2008-04-19T05:52:18Z

Just because I can't stand hearing about corset toiles any more.

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 14 replies

Boning in corset toiles?

2008-04-18T13:30:19Z

Well, it's my first time making a corset - or anything with boning in it, for that matter - and I know that it's heavily suggested that I make a toile to ensure that the fit is right. Also, in the Tudor Tailor, it is suggested that if you are making a toile for a boned bodice, then you should have boning in the toile as well. My question is this (well, there are more, but this is the first):
Assuming that all - ALL - of the little lines on the corset pattern in the book represent the edges of the boning channels, do I need to make that many boning channels for the corset? How many are actually needed? Where to place them? And I'm using cable ties - cheap and I've heard good things about them.
Also... I know how to scale up the patterns in the book, but what about adjusting them to fit me? Where are the best instructions on that? I'm guessing http://www.elizabethancostume.net/EffigyReconstruction.htm would do well in terms of measurements and numbers and adjusting and whatnot? (If instructions are actually in the book, just ignore this - I can't remember and I don't have access to the book at this minute, but I didn't want to double post if the book doesn't cover this)

And now, a more general question. Cassie recommended the AlterYears pattern, and I dutifully went out and bought it, since apparently, it's pretty easy to follow the instructions. However, I prefer the look and the shoulder straps on the Dorothea corset (though I would probably use tied ones like on the effigy corset)... what's easiest for a beginner? Using the Tudor Tailor patterns? Altering the Alteryears pattern to at least have straps (I don't have the courage to go beyond that, so I wouldn't be changing anything else other than to simply fit me)? Or just making the AlterYears pattern as it is?

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 24 replies

Wigging out! : )

2008-04-01T17:52:17Z

Next question.... and it's a "hairy" one! I know, bad pun, spanking line forms to the right.

I'm thinking that to really get the proper "look" for a couple of my new gowns, I will need a wig that I can style in proper fashion. I rather like the hair that Glenda is sporting in the opening scenes of the "Shadow in the Sun" episode of Elizabeth R. The deep front curls with the little baubles in the curls. And or the short curly front with the bun in back styles.
Since I refuse to cut my own hair anywhere close to that (as I look horrible with bangs), a decent wig is the only solution. However, I don't want to drop a ton of cash on a wig I'll only wear once in a while, so I'm looking for any suggestions on a reasonably priced wig supplier.

I know someone out there will know which way to steer me!

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 10 replies

Speaking of wigs

2008-04-01T05:42:49Z

I know so little about them, but I'd like to find out more. My hair doesn't readily adapt itself to many historical styles. Next month I'm playing Walter Raleigh and I'd like to find a wig that looks the way he wore his hair, long, straight back and cut off at about the nape of the neck. What do I do to achieve this with a wig?

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 2 replies

Newbies

2008-03-30T17:54:01Z

My daugher and I are planning on begining to attend and would like to make proper period costumes, so as to be qable to fully participate as spectators without detrating from the event. Looking for advice on whether or not the patters we found will suffice..looking for a place to post and get feedback beofer committing scissors to fabric.

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 23 replies

Next question. Spangles.

2008-03-29T21:54:02Z

Okay, as usual this kirtle is undergoing some "editing" as I go along. I just tucked the sleeves on the completely plain body of it this morning and ogled it for over half an hour. I think it's becoming one of the prettiest bit of work I've ever done. : )

I'm using the kirtle on page 109 of Janet Arnold PoF as my inspiration. And my question about spangles is this. Are we basically talking about a metal version of sequins? Would they have been sewn on with a bead like we do so much now, or would they have been sewn on more in a teardrop fashion?

I know, I know...... questions, questions! So many questions! *grin*

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 30 replies

New Icon Photo........

2008-03-28T21:11:34Z

YUMALICIOUS!!!!!!
Who did that peascod doublet in the group Icon???
beeeeuuuutifulll!!!!

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 24 replies

Time

2008-03-25T20:13:48Z

For those of us who sew, how long does each garment or outfit take?

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 20 replies

Pinking/slashing.. probably a dumb question

2008-03-25T03:21:23Z

But, how do y'all do your pinking on generally lighter woven modern fabrics without stuff fraying? A couple of projects I have in mind just really NEED to have some pinking and or small slashing on them, and I don't want it all to fall apart or fray to bits. I've always avoided doing any pinking in the past because I couldn't figure out how to do it right and make it look good.

Suggestions?

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 9 replies

NIce to see

2008-03-20T04:28:46Z

Some good English portraits!! I do admit that I am heavy on the Italian, but I need to build a new collection of English stuff since I'm on the dark side now!

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 0 replies

Help - Costuming!

2008-03-19T17:50:49Z

Okay ... my costume-mistress just lost her sewing machine and won't be able to finish my "nobles" for the RPFS this season. She's gathering up the pieces and has asked that I find someone to help me complete what's she's done...

It's about 75% done ... the venetians need to be completed - she took 'em apart to resize 'em a bit... but without her machine - she can't get it back together. My doublet needs the sleeves finished (and they're not going to be easy , there's about 150 little silver doohickeys to put on... I *should* be able to help a bit with that )

... I can barely sew on buttons ... so I'm pretty desperate here for help.

I know most of the costuming folk are probably already swamped... but I'm running out of options here and just need to get it done.

If anyone can help me... please contact me.

... (Help me, Obi-Wan Kenobi... you're my only hope!)

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 2 replies

Renaissance event near Sacramento

2008-03-19T14:06:25Z

Hi everyone, just wanted to put the word out about my event The Renaissance Experience which I have created to fulfill the requirements of my senior project. I am still looking for both groups and individuals to participate on the re-enactment side of things so if you are interested please contact me A.S.A.P.
The Renaissance Experience will be taking place on Saturday April 5th 10 am- 5 pm on the Global Youth Charter School campus 3243 Center Court Lane Antelope Ca. 95843. The event is FREE of charge to the public. The goal is to spread an appreciation and knowledge of the renaissance in a hands on fun filled environment.
Chelsea Elledge
(916) 770-9892
therenaissanceexpirience@hotmail.com (please note the alternate spelling of the email address)
MSN: justsingalong@hotmail.com

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 4 replies

Presentations!

2008-03-18T21:15:22Z

I had the honor of presenting some of my knowledge, items and artifacts to our schools 4th grade class. They are studing Jamestown, Roanoake and other early settlements here in North America. One of my outfits late Tudor, so I jumped at the chance. So much fun! Showed them a bone handle tooth brush with boar's hair bristols a spoon made of horn, and ofcoarse clothing. A bit of armor and swords and they were hooked. I how we all get a chance to inspire a little renaissance...

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 1 reply

Movie Clothing

2008-03-17T20:24:12Z

Does anyone have an Elizabethan style outfit the've emulated or would like to copy from a movie, photo, graphic, or story?
I've copied Sean Connery's from Highlander. Would love to make something work from R & R are dead.

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 27 replies

An Informal Poll...

2008-03-11T05:31:12Z

How do you prefer to sew your sleeves?
- Curved or straight?
- Laced (or tied) to the body of your doublet or bodice or inset into the armscrye?

Why?

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 21 replies

Sleeve Patterns and Pointers.

2008-03-09T09:25:06Z

Ok I’ve been watching the other thread and seeing some heavyweights jump on the curved sleeve side. I’m new to making my own costume and next year will be adding sleeves to an existing bodice. (I wont have time this year.) Currently it has no sleeves. The material will match my underskirt and not my bodice. However they go nicely together.

Can anyone point me to a pattern? My sleeves will be plain as I’m the widowed sister of a modest merchant.

Does anyone have any pointers for creating the attachments to an existing bodice or anything else pertaining to this?

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 3 replies

Tall Hats

2008-03-08T19:23:48Z

Does anyone have a good source for purchasing a period tall hat? (This is, of course, not something I feel comfortable constructing myself.)

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 7 replies

Elizabeth the Golden Age

2008-03-06T05:30:53Z

Costumes were rather entertaining! I liked how these were worn though.

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 20 replies

Women's Doublets... a question

2008-03-02T03:20:49Z

I am currently working on a upper middle/lower noble dress with a doublet. In all the pictures I've seen it seems the doublet is always a seperate garment from the skirt.
Is there any evidence that the doublet and skirt were ever one piece, one dress?
Thanks!

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 33 replies

Costume Library- OT reply.

2008-03-01T17:22:03Z

So we are having a great topic discussion of why the English emulate the Italian fashions so much at faire. Then I started me to think what does my costume library look like?

Well to start I want you all to know that I played an Italian for 12 years at the So. Cal. Faire. So that is why mine is heavy on the italina fashions. I was also a Art History major in college...go fig'r

That crappy brown Faire book they sell here at southern- my first buy
The Tudor Taylor: Ninya Milkhaila
Patterns of Fashion: Janet Arnold: v I - v II
Sea Dogs: Osprey Military Books
The Armada: Osprey Military Books
Hispanic Costume: 1480-1530: Ruth Anderson
Renaissance Portraits: Lorne Campbell

And if you didn't know... you can sign up for the major auction houses and get FREE CATALOGS on what is up, and get good hi res. jpegs of the portraits- I do it and it's free!!

THE BOOK OF SHAME !! Abbigliamento E Costume Nella Pittura Italiana v I - v II: Carlo Bestetti
The Cut of Men's Clothing: Norah Wagh (in transit)
The Cut of Women's Clothing (still on Amazon)

The handfull of great movies that support these areas

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 10 replies

Along the same lines... video library?

2008-02-20T22:34:11Z

Since some of us also use video as extra visual inspiration, what do you have hanging around, and which do you think does best in representation?

Me, I've got several I love to watch to get the inspiration rolling.

Elizabeth R - the series w/Glenda Jackson
Black Adder II - besides the laughs, it's got some really nice stuff
Elizabeth
Elizabeth ~ The Golden Age
Queen Margot
Mary Queen of Scots - the Vanessa Redgrave version which I desparately need to transfer to DVD before I wear the tape out. : )
Lady Jane
A Man for All Seasons

I've got a few early period films as well... I think it's a hazard of being so fond of Shakespeare in general, and European history in the main.

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 10 replies

Lots of Questions

2008-02-20T04:04:20Z

Hi all,
New here, have lots of questions. Where to begin. I'm a faire goer and have costumes for myself, wife and kids already. They're definately 'faire approvable' but I'm thinking about making or buying a new set of clothing for next year. I'm thinking something middle class for basically all 4 of us. To that end I'm currently researching and trying to separate the true historical costumes from the renism's of what's accurate and what's not. A ton of conflicting information out there as you can imagine. So... to start I'm approaching this from a 'what's inaccurate about my current costume' in order to see just how much I need to change. I've spoken to a few people about specifics but figured I'd get some 'expert' advice. :-) I'm probably going to redo everything anyway (to make a 2nd outfit) but still curious about the existing one. Here's a bad pic of me;
www.faerl.com/pic1.jpg

What I know (or been told);
Cavalier hat - Been told by several sources that the time is a bit off (besides being french) and likely I'll do a flat cap soon.
Shirt and pants are all cotton.
The doublet is suade (as this used ever?)
Shoes are leather and were done by Gypsy soles . Very curious on these if they were ever done like that. That style is very accepted in faire but I don't see references in books to match then. Several movies use them but most of those aren't all that accurate. I'm likely going to do black boots for the new outfit.

Any thoughts would be useful. I've got a lot of specific questions but wanted to get general thoughts first. Thanks!

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 11 replies

Opinions on these shoe possibilities, please

2008-02-20T00:54:45Z

I got a Naturalizer catalog and found some styles that might work for Ren faire, but I'd like the opinion of others who know more than me.
Check them out at :
www.naturalizer.com
Mansel
Deborah
Bella (w/o decorative knot?)
Bonita (w/o decorative knot?)

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 21 replies

I always find it funny...

2008-02-16T16:02:45Z

That in every "Elizabethan Costume Page" 98% of the reference materials used ends up being Italian fashion. Why is that?

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 16 replies

Bodice and Kirtle for sale!

2008-02-06T00:31:03Z

Hi--
I lost quite a lot of weight over the past few years and therefore have a couple of garments that I undergrew before I could wear them! I've got them up for sale on craigslist if anyone is interested! Links below:

sfbay.craigslist.org/nby/clo...966.html

sfbay.craigslist.org/nby/clo...316.html

:)

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 5 replies

Need Help

2008-02-02T23:36:31Z

I am with the GAs and I want to find a good pattern for a mens doublet. I know there are lots of patterns on the market, and lots of self proclaimed "professional" seamstresses around too.

I want to try my hand at a good doublet that is for a small faire... can anyone help?

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 18 replies

Who has had some of thier 15 minutes due to this wonderful obsession?

2008-01-30T07:26:19Z

I've knocked a few minutes off my 15 min of fame...
www.clickondetroit.com look under "I am Detroit" tab look for the guy in the big hat....

posted in Elizabethan Clothing - 1 reply