Katrijn's Dress Diary

New overlocker :-)

2012-02-03T13:15:00.003+11:00

Just went for a walk during my lunch break and bought a new overlocker - Janome 8002DX :-) My other one has been broken for a while and was a good excuse not to sew (it was over ten years old and bought second hand at the time). So.......no more excuses :-)

Long time no see :-)

2012-01-31T11:49:00.002+11:00

Well, it has been nearly twelve months since I have posted anything here - in line with not doing any projects since that time :-)

I had a lot of stuff happen in the 'real world' so haven't been doing much else. I am starting to feel motivated again and taking a new lease on life in general. I have lots of projects in the back of my mind but of course it's 'only two weeks to Festival' so I need to get cracking!

I have a family history project I am working on to get as much info together as possible before my dad goes to visit his brother on the 9th February. My uncle is very ill with cancer so this has to take priority!

I haven't made myself any new dresses for years so have decided that I need to re-focus and this may encourage me to do more :-) I have decided Cotehardie's are still my favourite (and my husband's) so I am going to make some new ones. I have been inspired by some pictures and websites and have a stack of beautiful buttons I bought at Festival last year that would be fantastic for sleeves! I also have some gorgeous brocade that I can use on the lower sleeves :-) First things first though, I need some chemises! Anyone have any good sources for easy to make chemises that will sit nicely under a cotehardie?

Coffee break over, back to work!

Festival is only 2 weeks away!

2011-04-03T17:39:00.003+10:00

Actually, it's about 2.5 weeks away but still scarily close! I am excited but nervous at the same time - it has been 3 years since our last visit, lots has changed but some things are still the same! LOL It will be the 5 of us plus Ranif and Johanna making up the Radburne contingency.

Both Conrad and Wolfstanus need to re-authorise and Wolfstanus can now authorise as an Archer, hope they are both successful! T is also thinking about fighting alongside Ranif - is taking his armour anyway. Will depend on mood/how things go if he fights or not. We decided to get the local saddler to make leather gorgets - still waiting on them but we have been promised they will be ready in time!

The new armour Terry has made looks awesome - can't wait to see them all kitted up! Gryffen still has ten months to go before he can authorise as a banner bearer so I plan to try and do lots of stuff with him so he doesn't get too bored ;-) Need to make sure I take the camera etc too! I still have some sewing to do but mum is helping so it is more manageable ;-) I haven't been well for about the last month so haven't been doing much - I spent all afternoon tracing patterns and cutting them out, need to get off my feet though for a bit as they are painful again. I don't want to jinx myself but at least this Festival won't be spent on crutches!

I think we will be better prepared for Festival this time around but I am still nervous about the whole thing - T is more involved with the SCA now so hopefully should be better. He enjoyed Spring War even though he didn't get to fight so I am more hopeful this time but don't want to get my hopes up too high - less chance of being disappointed then ;-)

T has also made a take down double bed (timber) which means no air mattress and no sleeping on the ground! Huzzah! The boys all have bigger tents too now they are older which will fit their stretchers and gear. We also have a common tent for the group so should be better.

So what is on the list for the next two weeks:
* Make cotehardie for T
* Make cloak for T
* Make cloak for me
* Make chemise for me (extra one)
* New shirt for Conrad and Wolfstanus (mum is doing those for me)
* Finish T's banner (if I get a chance)
* Pre-cooking for Festival (things that can be frozen such as soups/stews etc)

Not too bad, will keep me out of mischief anyway! Really looking forward to catching up with people! Looking forward to seeing who wins Autumn Crown too as they will be Royalty for November Crown which Radburne is hosting!

Wow, it has been a long time!

2011-01-17T20:18:00.001+11:00

Hmm, haven't been here for a while have I? I have completed the Italian Renaissance Dress, made several doublets, almost completed my husband's banner, made cotehardies.....I really should take some photos and put them up, along with my latest project!

It's completed!

2010-03-30T21:12:00.001+11:00

I have been meaning to post this here for a while - I finished Gryffen's banner about 1 month ago. It is actually bottle green and white although the photo doesn't show the colour up very well ;-) There is a combination of machine stitching (for some of the seams) but the rest is hand sewn. (The banner wasn't quite finished when I took this.)

Gryffen's banner has been started

2010-01-18T21:38:00.003+11:00

although I am struggling to get motivated I must admit. After a very hectic day at work today the brain just couldn't get switched on so I took the dogs for a walk instead in the beautiful, cool fresh air! Unusual for this time of year so I took advantage of it! The photos don't show it particularly well but the banner is dark green and white, not black and white as it looks. The lion's heads will have more detail sewn on as well. Princess decided to help pull the pins out!

Not much to see here..........

2010-01-12T22:20:00.001+11:00

Haven't really been doing any sewing or planning - too hot! Will try and get motivated again in a few weeks ;-)

Started cutting out a banner for Gryffen on the weekend but I got too hot and couldn't get motivated ;-)

Wow, it has been longer than I though!

2009-11-02T21:13:00.002+11:00

Life is crazy and busy, tiring but good. I still haven't finished the Renaissance dress but I have done some hand sewing! I'm still trying to decide on embillishments (if any) and closures (although will probably do lacing holes). I am hoping to have it done to a wearable stage (no sleeves) by this weekend - not sure it will happen though ;-) I have the two new patterns as well which remain unopened.

I did buy a stash of velveteen the other day as it was reduced from $14.95AUS per metre to $6AUS per metre :-) I got 10m of green, 10m of blue and 10m of black - I am hoping now with the warmer weather and wanting to stay in the air conditioning I will get some sewing done. I must admit I have not been motivated lately :-(

Didn't quite get there..........

2009-05-18T11:49:00.002+10:00

I got Wolfstanus' and Gryffen's doublets done (after sewing until 1am both Thursday and Friday nights) but it just wasn't physically possible to get Conrad's done. He was very understanding though! His will be on the top of the list now to get done. Here are two photos although they haven't got the tie on sleeves on them. (It was quite warm through the day). Will try and get better ones after they have been cleaned - oh the dust!!

Oh the plans.........

2009-05-14T11:15:00.002+10:00

Just need a break from spread sheets so here are a few ramblings.......
* Get the boys doublets finished by this weekend
* Next step is new shirts for Conrad, Gryffen and Terry
* Do blackwork embroidery (learn to do it first) on all the boys shirts
* Finish my Italian experiment
* Create a German Renaissance gown - probably view II or V on this......I have some Burgundy velveteen that has been recycled from an old Elizabethan I pulled apart itching to be made ;-)

* Once all the spiffy gear is made, get a family portrait done!

One almost done.........

2009-05-14T09:50:00.004+10:00

and two more to go in two days! Got Gryffens almost done - the trim turned up yesterday. Huzzah! I haven't got time to upload photos etc at the moment so will try and do that next week when things aren't so crazy! I'm really happy with it - I just need to do lacing holes on the main body and on the sleeves, sew the sleeve caps on and sew on the frog closures and it is a done deal! My mum is going to help me with the hand sewing over the next few days so we can hopefully get them all done! I have tomorrow off work but with all the running around I need to do to organise the event it is going to be tight ;-) At least I am not the only one! Terry and Pete still need to finish off their armour before the weekend! LOL

You know you're in the SCA when..............

Wednesday update

2009-05-13T09:19:00.002+10:00

Got the hand sewing done on Gryffen's doublet (took a couple of photos but will need to upload them from home), got the sleeves lined and now I cannot go any further until I get the trim. Fingers, toes and everything crossed it turns up today!

Worked on Wolfstanus' doublet - cut out the lining from the pattern I have for his dad. Naturally it was way too big! Put it on him and marked the new seam lines and used the lining as the pattern. Then cut out the interfacing and fabric - pinned the lining together ready to sew. I hope to get the sewing done this evening (as then I need to wait for, you guessed it, the trim).

Will make a start on Conrad's tomorrow!

Progress at last!

2009-05-12T09:44:00.002+10:00

Got a fair amount done on Gryffen's doublet last night. The collar is on, the peplum is on and the main body is together and fully lined. I just need to hand sew the lining on the inside to 'seal it up'. The lining is pinned to the sleeves so will sew it tonight and the sleeve caps are sewn to the point where I need to put on the trim. Now if the trim would just arrive things would be great!

Tonight will be sewing sleeves and lining as well as cutting out Wolfstanus' doublet and pinning. Wednesday night will be cutting out Conrad's doublet and pinning (and hopefully the trim will turn up or I'm screwed). Thursday night is household grocery night so probably won't get a lot done. Friday is shopping for the feast, acupuncture, picking up hospit gear, portaloo and finishing sewing all doublets 'cause Saturday is setup, archery, feast and tourney on Sunday. Nothing quite like a tight schedule is there?

So far the doublet looks great - it is lined with navy blue linen and the main fabric is black velveteen. With Gryffen's red hair it works well :-) I'll try and get a photo of the progress tonight.

Beginings of a doublet for Gryffen

2009-05-07T14:27:00.002+10:00

I actually managed to get a little bit done last night until the headache took over. Got the fabric cut out (black velveteen) and the interfacing cut out and ironed onto the fabric pieces. Pieces have been pinned ready to sew of the lining and the main fabric. The issue I have at the moment is there is only so much I can sew before I need to put the trim on before completing the rest of the sewing. I got an email last night to say there had been a hiccup with my order - the online store thingy let me order more frog closures than was in stock - oh bother. I was asked if I would like to wait one or two weeks for the new stock to come in or if I would like what they had now sent and send the remainder when it arrives - I opted for the second option! So, it doesn't look like I will have my trim by the weekend now - oh bother! Murphy's Law of course - my fault for leaving it to the last minute! I can see a few late nights next week! The other problem of course is we only get mail Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Hopefully the trim will arrive by Monday otherwise it is going to be awfully tight! If worst comes to worst, I'll just sew the doublets together plain and attach the trim when it arrives - a little bit more mucking around but doable! Have I learned my lesson? Time will tell! LOL

Slow start

2009-05-06T16:18:00.002+10:00

Got the lining for Gryffen's doublet cut out and realised I also need interfacing *sigh*. Went to spotlight and got some medium weight iron on stuff (because I am pressed for time) - should do the trick. Given the lining is linen and the fabric is velveteen it should hold the shape nicely (I hope!). Was a bit sore and headachey after the chiro last night so only did that bit and had to stop. I hope to get the interfacing and fabric for Gryffen's cut out tonight. Probably won't get time for anything tomorrow night so if I can get the other two cut out on Friday night will be great! I have a house-full this weekend so it is going to be interesting getting all of this done! Hopefully the trim and frog closures will turn up on Friday - then I think it will be late nights all of next week! At least I have next Friday off work to get all the stuff done for the feast and tourney. Oh boy!

Patterns arrived.........

2009-05-05T10:17:00.001+10:00

that I ordered - the Italian Renaissance one and the German one (listed in a post somewhere below ;-)). They will need to wait for a bit though until I get the doublets done.

Hope to start cutting out material tonight.........

Why do I leave things to the last minute?

2009-05-04T09:51:00.002+10:00

Because it is my nature I guess. I think I have plenty of time and it just creeps up on me!

So, a brief update:
* No more work done on the Italian dress due to working on chook pen (see Chickadee Chirpings)
* Remembered I had promised my three sons I would make them new doublets for the Radburne Anniversary Feast on the 16 May
* Bought velveteen (Conrad is having Navy Blue with white trim - his colours, Wolfstanus is having black velveteen with red and gold trim - his colours, and Gryffen is having black velveteen with gold trim - his dad's colours 'cause I couldn't get green velveteen which is Gryffen's colours)
* Went - 'OMG, how will I get this done?'
* Ordered trim from Odds n Sods in Newcastle because I cannot buy it locally. They have always got orders to me quickly so hoping it will be the same this time!
* No longer need to make T's tabbard in a hurry as he doesn't really need it until August now (phew!!!)
* I will wear my Cotehardie and Sideless surcoat for the feast as it is warm - the new outfit can wait a bit longer ;-)

Back to work - coffee break over!

No new news........

2009-04-27T10:09:00.002+10:00

Haven't done any more work on the dress - too busy working on the chook pen and reading ;-) Hope to work out the sleeves over the next few days.........

Day two of the project

2009-04-15T20:43:00.002+10:00

12/4/2009
Fabric cut out as well as lining (I used calico from my stash) and iron on interfacing. I used lightweight interfacing as that is what I had in my stash but heavy should be used. Sewed the bodice and remembered to leave the armholes un-sewn but forgot to leave the bottom hem open! Unpicked the hem......I had only one length of material left to make the skirt - luckily it was long enough and wide enough! It isn't particularly full but I still needed to pleat it to fit the bodice. Sewed the skirt to the bodice. Now I need to hand sew the armhole lining to the bodice and the bodice lining over the seam of the skirt where it attaches to the bodice. I also put boning in the front closure to stop the lacing holes pulling too severely. I also need to do the lacing holes.
Still need to decide on sleeve style which is the next part of the project!

And we begin.......

2009-04-15T20:13:00.005+10:00

Step 1
Got mum to assist with measurements and wrote them into booklet

Step 2
Remembered I already had a chemise from my Elizabethan experiment - it is a little tight under the arms but perfectly fine for this experiment! I still want to make a new one complete with blackwork embroidery, but it can wait for now.

Step 3
or decisions, decisions!!
Decided on a square neck bodice with front lacing so I can 'dress myself' and thought this would be easiest for a first attempt. I also decided on detached sleeves for flexibility. Still deciding on exact style of sleeve though.

Step 4 or more decisions!
Picking material! I went through my stash and found some very pale blue silkish looking material (it is not silk - not sure what it is but I got it courtesy of Aminah - thanks Aminah!). I also found some gold coloured brocade material for the sleeves.

Step 5
Making the bodice pattern
- draw the pattern onto brown paper using measurements taken with mum in step 1 and following instructions in booklet
- drafting the pattern was very difficult for me! After double checking some measurements (it just didn't look right) and a few goes later I finally had a paper pattern! Still not convinced it is correct ;-) Cutting out of scrap material (remembering to leave a seam allowance) and then adjust fit on. Update Pattern did not work very well - goofed it somewhere! The back was way too short! Back to the drawing board! I have a number of commercial patterns but I want to do more than that! I will be ordering Historic Patterns 'Italian Renaissance Gowns C 1470-1505' and 'Women's German Puff and Slash Gowns C 1500-1545 AD'. The Cotehardie one was good as was the gambeson one - unfortunately I just do not have the skills yet to draft a pattern!

Take 2
I didn't want to give up so went back and redrew the back piece of the pattern. I then cut it out of scrap, sewed it together and tried it on. I got my husband to mark the changes needed to the armholes and neckline. I adjusted the fit along the bust and then cut myself out of the toile. I unpicked the seams and traced the pattern back onto paper so I could re-use it. Hopefully I have it right this time!. I will now cut out my fabric.......

Italian Renaissance Gown project part two

2009-04-15T20:06:00.002+10:00

I found an instruction booklet called "Italian Renaissance Gown Construction" by Mistress Leona Khadine d'Este and Mistress Enid D'Auliere. I normally like to have a pattern as I am not a confident seamstress however these instructions are clear enough that I think I want to give it a go!
The first things I need to do are:
1) Get mum to help me get accurate measurements
2) Decide on a chemise
3) Decide type of bodice - front, back or side lacing
4) Decide on neck shape - square, round or v
5) Detached, attached or combination sleeves?
6) One, two or three piece sleeves etc (So many choices!!! LOL)
7) What embellishments?
8) Make bodice pattern
9) Make chemise
10) Make gown
11) Research headwear and make
12) Research accessories

Italian Inspiration

2009-04-14T14:44:00.004+10:00

Part one - started 11/4/2009

I haven't made myself a new outfit for some time. Elizabethan wasn't for me - too hot and too cumbersome for what I need. I still love my cotehardies and Viking is very practical and comfortable. This time though, I want to try something different. I have seen some Italian Renaissance gowns and I must admit I like the look of them. What they look like on me though may be something totally different! LOL I have a large stash of material so I figured I'll make an outfit and if it doesn't suit me, it will be a gift for the hospit gear. If it does turn out, then I will use my burgundy velveteen to make a speccy outfit ;-)

Where to start? Atlantia A & S links, Realm of Venus, Google and several hours later I have a starting point. I like these portraits, courtesy of Realm of Venus .

Will post more tomorrow......

Got my sewing done before Border War!

2009-03-02T13:46:00.003+11:00

Yay - got all the sewing done, including the shirt! The banners didn't get done but that is not the end of the world.

Word of advice - do not attempt new patterns when you are tired and constantly getting interrupted by people! It is possible to end up with the collar sewn as a cuff! This means pulling apart and doing again!

Ten more sleeps

2009-02-17T21:59:00.003+11:00

to get my sewing done!

I got three T-Tunics done Sunday afternoon, had a slack day yesterday and got one pair of pants done tonight. I have another pair of pants cut out and pinned and need to get some more material tomorrow to do the last pair of pants. Then I need to do a shirt for Wolfstanus......

After that if I have time I will do two banners.......

The Yellow Cotehardie Lacing Holes are finally done!!!

2009-02-10T16:05:00.003+11:00

Mind you I stayed up until 1am this morning doing them ;-) I checked to make sure it still fits as I began this project about 14 months ago! Thank goodness it does!!!

Will try and get Wolfstanus' lacing holes done tonight......now I just need a photo to put here! LOL

And still trying to get through the list.....

2009-02-09T13:23:00.003+11:00

I have 18 days to do the following:
* 2 pairs of baggy pants for T
* 1 shirt and 1 pair of baggy pants for Wolfstanus
* 1 pair baggy pants for Gryffen
* Heraldic Tabard for T
* 2 x t-tunics for Kristy
* 1 T-tunic for Pete (I found one of Conrad's old one's that will fit him thus cutting down on sewing time)
* New banner for T
* New banner for Gryffen (due to design changes)
* Lacing holes have been cut for my cotehardie and Wolfstanus' cotehardie - just need to sew around them now!
* Need to look at headware for me
* Turtle brooches ordered and awaiting arrival (hopefully this week) for my Viking outfit ;-)

Hmmmm..........busy but doable!

Getting through the list......

2009-02-03T07:08:00.003+11:00

slow and steady! Got the sleeves pulled out of my 'old favourite' heraldic cotehardie - since I have been going to the gym the sleeves are now too tight! I've decided for Border War to wear it sleeveless over a cotton voile underdress - should be a little cooler that way ;-) Eventually I want to add tie on sleeves.

Got the sleeves pulled out of Wolfstanus' two cotehardies - they were too tight but the rest of it fits fine. He can wear his sleeveless for now too and I will add tie on sleeves later. Also took the hem down on one of Gryffen's trousers so he can wear them a bit longer.

I've almost got my Viking apron dress done too - just need to hem it and get my turtle brooches ;-)

Four gambesons finally done!

2009-01-28T10:44:00.003+11:00

Including the lacing holes - huzzah! They have also been used and work well ;-) At least I can cross them off my list. I think the next thing to do will be Terry's tabbard and then the t-tunics and baggy trousers. Oh the list!!

Gambeson number two almost complete

2009-01-14T10:13:00.002+11:00

Got the second gambeson almost done - need to hand sew the 'flap' at the front and add closures. What is it with me and closures? I have about 4 things that need closures and I keep avoiding them! Maybe because doing lacing holes is not my favourite thing ;-)

This gambeson was meant for Pete but it ended up being too small in the sleeves/armholes because it is much thicker than the first one I made (and I didn't quilt it). All is not lost - it fits Wolfstanus who also needs a gambeson! So, two down, two to go!

When I make Pete's this time I will cut it large, then quilt the pieces, then cut it to the size I need. I think I will baste this time, mark out any adjustments and then do the final cut and sewing. I know this is how you should do it anyway but I am just too impatient ;-) Then I just have Conrad's to make.

Once the gambesons are out of the way, Terry, Pete and Wolfstanus need tabards. (Conrad already has a House Pretect one.) Then once they are done, I need to make T-Tunics for Pete and Kristy, baggy trousers for the three boys, finish the lacing holes on my cotehardie, make my viking apron dress, t-tunics for Terry, sleeveless doublets (2 each) for Conrad and Wolfstanus. And all before Border War! Ahhhh!

Arming caps almost done and dusted....

2009-01-09T11:02:00.003+11:00

Got the remaining three arming caps cut out and sewn last night - just need to sew on ties under the chin. Then I will put them on again and see if they need any adjustment ;-) The boys think that is not necessary as the weight of the helms will keep them flat but I am not so sure. Obviously they all have different shaped heads so the pattern fits some better than others. All in all, not a bad effort though for a first go! Will be making gambesons this weekend.....I haven't got a photo of the caps yet, will try and get that tonight. We were too busy giggling about my husband in his almost complete gambeson, trying on his new helm (which is also not complete), cigarette hanging out of his mouth and shorts and thongs on. What can I really say but it was a 'Kodak' moment! LOL

You know you are in the SCA when.........

One arming cap done, three to go......

2009-01-08T11:35:00.003+11:00

I finally got around to giving the pattern a go that Johanna gave me a few weeks ago. I made the arming cap with the leftovers from the material of the gambeson. Just need to add ties and it is done ;-) I should be able to get the other three done with the rest of the leftovers - I have tried the 'draft' on the other three and I am good to go. Will try and get them done by Saturday.

I need to get the other three gambesons done this weekend too if possible - K is coming up to learn how to make one for P so really I only have two to make and help with the third ;-)

Once that is done, I want to start on my Viking Apron Dress - I have had the material for over 12 months now and I got some beautiful trim from the Radburne War chest that will go perfectly LOL.

Will try and get a picture of the arming cap here tonight when I get home..........

Photos of the gambeson in progress

2009-01-03T22:00:00.002+11:00

I still need to get one of the finished product!

One gambeson down, three to go

2008-12-30T09:48:00.002+11:00

Got my pattern, cut it out on Friday, and got it sewn on Saturday. T decided to go with the 'short' version. I just need to get him to try it on to hem the sleeves and then put lacing holes in and I'm done! I had to cut the shoulders shorter and the armholes deeper and the fit was pretty good. The other three I need to make are all 'skinny' so I think I will need to copy the original pattern onto paper and then cut them smaller. Another job to do on the sooner rather than later list! I'm at work so cannot upload any photos - if I remember, will do it in the next few days. (I am off to the movies with my mum tonight.) Pre-quilted cotton fabric is awesome ;-) I know it is cheating a little and is not as thick as some of the gambesons however it suits our needs and what my husband is comforatble wearing. Will see how it holds up in combat - I dare say this will be version one and it will evolve! LOL

Too much sewing to do..........

2008-12-09T14:53:00.001+11:00

and not enough motivation and time to do it in! LOL

Got some mundane mending done on Monday night - at least that is out of the way!

Got a whole stash of fabric from Aminah on the weekend so lots to do! I'm hoping to get motivated when I have some time off over Christmas and period patterns 101 arrived so I can have a go at making some gambesons and arming caps (which are top of the list).

Sewing for pressies

2008-11-23T16:15:00.003+11:00

These are the bags I have made for Xmas pressies for SCA people. When we have our tavern feast on the 5 December, we are each bringing a small gift to go in the 'box' for each person to draw out a present. I'm quite happy with how they turned out! I was going to start making a gambeson for T but trying to draft a pattern nearly did my head in! I decided to do the sensible thing and call Blue Draco to order Period Patterns 101! I can fiddle with it to get a nice fit if I have a starting point - I don't have enough experience or confidence to start from scratch - yet!

An update on the 'to do list'.......

2008-11-18T14:05:00.003+11:00

Here is the long awaited photo of Kristy and Pete with the garb I made them. They threw them on over their mundanes so it probably doesn't sit the best! LOL Kristy broke her lacing and you can't see the pretty sleeves in this photo - I'll have to take one just of the dress I think ;-)

Have done some research for patterns etc to make a start on my list of things. Made my 'roman' tunica last night - not entirely happy with how it sits. I'm sure in the book I have 'Patterns for Theatrical Costume' there is 'roman' garb - I'll have to check it out tonight and have a play. I am using a pale blue linen which looks nice (and feels nice too!). Will try and get photos for here. Once I get mine sorted, then I'll make Kristy's - hers will be pink.

I've also done some research for gambeson patterns - I am awaiting a response from Blue Draco to see if they have Period Patterns 101 in stock. It has gambesons, surcoats, tabards, leggings etc. I'm not too confident with drafting my own pattern from scratch so I am hoping I can buy one! Although I have had to *fiddle* with the other PP I have (which you need to do with any pattern to get the best fit) and no doubt will have to with this one too, I find it much easier if I have a *base* from which to start. Drafting is something I would like to learn to do (I think I have a book on it somewhere) - maybe that is project for next year ;-)

Back again

2008-11-05T10:37:00.002+11:00

My family has decided to become actively involved with the SCA now which has helped me to become refocused on what I would like to do. Other stuff is talked about on Rath's Ramblings so I will just focus on the sewing/garb making stuff on this blog. My to do list is getting scary!
Before 6 December
7 x roman outfits (2 womens, 2 mens, two teenagers and one child)

For armouring
2 mens gambessons and 2 teenagers gambessons
2 mens arming caps and 2 teenagers arming caps

General Garb over the next few months
* Finish my cotehardie's lacing holes which has been a work in progress for over 12 months!
* Make some t-tunics for K as well as a cotehardie and sideless surcoat
* Make some t-tunics for P and a tabard
* T needs at least another shirt and I need to find out what else he wants. Probably some more cotehardies in cotton drill - the plain cotton hasn't held up particulary well especially as it was worn under armour in a war! He also needs a tabard
* Conrad wants some doublets
* Wolfstanus wants doublets and cotehardies
* Gryffen wants cotehardies
* I still want to make the cotehardie based on the picture - I'm thinking about investigating florentine too.

Boy that list is scary! How long did I say I had to do it? In between all of this I have several events to organise as well as household activities as well as the stock clerk website. OMG!

I'm getting back to work before I think about this too much more! LOL

Still nothing to see

2008-10-29T16:16:00.002+11:00

because I have not been doing any sewing. I did make a dress to wear to my niece's wedding but did not like how it sat so did not wear it. It is very pretty but it wasn't practical either as I was 'official photographer' for the wedding. Opted for flat boots, trousers and a nice blouse. Oh well, I will wear the dress one day I am sure. The two cotehardies remain not complete and eventually I will do the lacing holes. If I was feeling energetic I would get mine done for this Sunday's tourney. Now there is a challenge...hmmm...a Friday night special me thinks! LOL Bets anyone on whether or not I get it done?

Not very good at keeping this updated am I?

2008-08-21T10:56:00.002+10:00

I guess that's partly due to being ill, being too busy and not really doing anything on the sewing front. I did make Kristy a Cotehardie and Pete a T-tunic. They look very cute together in matching material ;-) I haven't been able to get a picture of them so will try too.
I still haven't finished my cotehardie or Wolfstanus' - the lacing holes remain not done. *sigh* I really do need to get motivated again! I also need to make a list of clothing I need to make for the boys. Maybe that's a job for this weekend.

And here is the picture I was talking about........

2008-05-29T22:25:00.001+10:00

It is by Rogier Weyden.

Not a lot to see here.......

2008-05-29T11:30:00.003+10:00

I haven't done anymore sewing since Festival. As it was cool on the evening of the feast I didn't bother finishing the yellow cotehardie and wore one of my other dresses. I still have to do the lacing holes for it and Wolfstanus' cotehardie too. I really should look at finishing those off!

Conrad wants some doublets made too so I might start planning it. There is also a dress I want to make - I have some beautiful material I bought just for the sleeves (it was the end of a roll) and I had this dress in mind when I bought it. Will have to scan it and see how it goes (and find the picture on my computer to put here).

Update on sewing for Festival

2008-03-10T12:09:00.002+11:00

The ever lovely and helpful Johanna came over again on the weekend and we got some more sewing done.

Completed:
The two shirts for Wolfstanus
The shirt for T
The two doublets for T (apart from the frog closures which will hopefully arrive in the next few days!)
Another 3 hoods cut out
Sewing together of two hoods

Still to complete:
The sleeves and hems on my linen chemise (the sleeves have been unpicked - need to fix the shape of them and re-sew)
Sewing together of 3 hoods
Lining for 5 hoods
Frog closures on doublets (x 2 doublets)
Lacing holes on 2 cotehardies for Wolfstanus
Lacing holes on my new cotehardie
Hem on 'old favourite' cotehardie that needs shortening

And I think that is it! Phew! I hope to have all that done by this weekend!

Only 17 days to Festival! Yikes!

2008-03-03T12:56:00.002+11:00

Well, I've cut down some of my list of sewing - made use of loaner garb, buying trackie dacks and doing the minimal amount required. Johanna has been a life saver helping me sew all weekend.

Achievements:
1 shirt for Wolfstanus complete except for handsewing of hems
1 shirt for Wolfstanus almost complete - need to sew in sleeves and do hem
1 Shirt for Cyriac (still need to do a name change!)- collar and sleeves to sew on - hemming to be done
2 x doublets cut out for Cyriac - need more interfacing and to cut out lining before sewing
2 x hoods cut out and pinned - need to do lining
1 x linen chemise for me - sleeves went funny so need to re-do those and hem/finish off edges

Still to cut out and finish off
3 x hoods and lining
Lacing holes for Wolfstanus' cotehardies
Lacing holes for my Cotehardie
Button holes for Cyriac's Cotehardie

The goal is to get all the cutting out and pinning done by the weekend so I can just get in and sew like crazy! Lacing holes I can do in front of the TV of an evening.

I HAVE to get back into my study this evening for my short hand course - I am 4 assignments behind and have forgotten half of what I have learnt (so will need to revise as well). Bugger!!!

If I can get most of the sewing done by next weekend, it will give me the weekend before Festival to organise the camping gear. I do have the day before we leave off work but being on crutches kinda limits what I can do on my own!

Garb update

2008-02-22T15:29:00.002+11:00

Well, not much happening at the moment. I have a fractured ankle and bruised tendon so need to learn to drive my sewing machine with my left foot!

I'm working on a yellow cotehardie at the moment but progress has halted somewhat. I hope to get back into it this weekend as I'm not allowed to put any weight on my ankle for the next four weeks (I've already spent the last 6 weeks on crutches with it being treated as a sprain - found out today I have a crack fracture, bruised bone and bruised tendon - explains why the 'sprain' wasn't getting better LOL)

Also need to do the lacing holes on Wolfstanus' cotehardies! I have aglets and lacing on order - hopefully they will turn up next week!

Cotehardies for Wolfstanus

2008-01-15T15:47:00.000+11:00

These are the two cotehardies I made for Wolfstanus on Sunday. It was a new pattern I tried taken from 'Patterns for Theatrical Costumes' by Katherine Strand Holkeboer (listed under the section as Mid 14th Century). So whilst probably not historically accurate it does give the right look and fit - Wolfstanus exclaimed it was 'really comfy!' He doesn't want buttons so I just need to do lacing holes now. It is fully lined.

I copied the pattern from the book onto 1/8" grid paper (the scale used), printed it onto an overhead transperancy and projected it onto the wall so that the grid was 1". I then traced it onto brown paper, cut it out, and voila! A pattern! It was originally intended for Conrad but is way too small - thank goodness I have three sons so when it doesn't fit one, it will usually fit one of the others!

The material used was from some I had in my stash - the blue I think is some sort of cotton blend (I only paid about $1 a metre for it ages ago and still have quite a bit left), the other I had bought to make a lounge cover about six years ago. (You know you're in the SCA when...........)

All up, from cutting, pinning, fitting, lining and sewing took me about six hours for the two. Not bad for a day's sewing.............

The most important thing is that Wolfstanus likes them and is happy to wear them. Just need to make some hose to go with them......

Time is ticking away......

2008-01-02T13:27:00.000+11:00

Not much to report - I was hoping to get some sewing done over the Christmas break but no such luck. I have a cotehardie cut out for myself and partly sewn but the fit isn't great. I need to cut bigger gores so it sits better on my hips. I seem to recall having to do this last time - didn't write it down on the pattern as I thought I would remember. Ha ha ha ha ha!

Got some nice material for the boys for duds - it's their favourite. I might try and get those cut out on the weekend as it is a pretty simple job. I need things nice and simple at the moment .

My goal for 2008 on this blog is to do better diaries and more photos etc!

Plans for Festival

2007-12-17T10:45:00.000+11:00

Well, it's been a while. Banners are pretty much all done although I still have to applique the cobra's on T's.

I have to start cracking - Festival is only about 3 months away and I need a whole wardrobe for the whole family! OMG! I need to start working out what I need to make......

For me:
3 x chemises (that fit correctly!)
3 x new cotehardies (one is cut out)
New cloak (wool)
New hood (wool)

For T:
2 x shirts
2 x trews
2 x cotehardies (could maybe get away with one)
1 x new cloak and hood

For Conrad:
2 x new shirts
2 x new trews
2 x cotehardies
1 x new hood (wool)

For Wolfstanus
2 x new shirts
2 x new trews
2 x cotehardies
1 x new hood (wool)

For Gryffen
2 x new shirts
2 x new trews
2 x cotehardies
1 x new hood (wool)

AAHHHHHQ! How much time did I say I had again???

Banner projects

2007-11-03T17:37:00.000+11:00

These are the latest banner projects I have been working on. Just need to sew on the applique and fringing, then they are done!

Banner Stands

2007-10-15T22:45:00.000+10:00

Still haven't got all the photos ready I want to put up here! I have Conrads banner 98% finished - I just need to sew the tabs on the top and it is done! I need to try and get Gryffen's done by this weekend - I will give it my best shot!

This is a sample of the banner stand Cyriac has been making (in between dabbling with making armour - I need to make a Gamberson for him now!!)

The long promised Cotehardie and Sideless Surcoat!

2007-10-01T11:42:00.001+10:00

I have finally taken photos of my first attempt at using Period Patterns #21. The Cotehardie is made from white corderoy (sp?) and the Sideless Surcoat from dare I say it, recyled curtain material ;-) Can't remember the sort of material I used for the gold lining on the surcoat though - I didn't write it down. The lacing holes are hand done using red wool.

The fit isn't as snug as I would like it, but I don't think it's too bad an attempt for a first go! I hope to purchase the pattern for the men's cotehardies soon too as Cyriac has decided he likes the men's clothing from that period too.

First attempt at a Cotehardie (made in 2006)

2007-09-27T20:34:00.000+10:00

This is my first attempt at a cotehardie. Although it isn't completely authentic, I still like it. I think the style suits me and it is very comfortable to wear! The cotehardie is my favourite style. My goal for my next piece of garb is to do some proper research - I have some material in my stash that is begging to be made up. I hope to start my research next week when I have a weeks holiday!

Not much here is there........

2007-09-16T20:47:00.000+10:00

Well this idea didn't really take off did it? I'll get my act together one day - really I will!

Wolfstanus' banner is now complete. Just working on a banner stand. Started making a banner for Conrad too - just need to applique the battleaxes now. I need to finish it before Thursday (Medieval day at the high school).

So to do list for this blog:
* Photos of white Cotehardie and Sideless Surcoat
* Photos of Wolfstanus' banner
* Photos of Conrad's banner

Next projects:
* Banner for Gryffen
* Get T to decide what sort of garb he wants me to make him
* Make new garb for Conrad
* Make new garb for Wolfstanus
* Make new garb for Gryffen
* Make 'summery' garb for me
* Make cushions (for taking to SCA events)
* Make a shade pavilion

Hmmm....may need to do some of this before the Baronial Hunt at Polit next month!

Slack attack.........

2007-07-30T22:09:00.000+10:00

I was going to do a proper dress diary this time but it didn't quite work out. Got the Cotehardie and Sideless Surcoat made and wore it to the Tavern Feast - didn't come out too bad for a first attempt! The fit was okay but probably could be tailored a bit more.

I'm working on a mundane skirt at the moment that I need for this weekend. Haven't done any today as I have been in bed sick!

Will try and get photos up here soon of the completed project.........

Banner making project

2007-07-05T09:01:00.000+10:00

Well, the cotehardie hasn't progressed any - no time! I'm on holidays next week so I'm going to get it done then. Definately! I have to, I want to wear it to the tavern night on Saturday 14th. Nothing like a deadline to get you moving!

I've been working on a banner for Wolfstanus - his device is in the process of registration so it should be fine. Francesca kindly showed me how to do blanket stitch and it's not too bad for a first attempt if I do say so myself! It has been quite relaxing sewing in front of the TV!

The banner isn't complete yet - I need to do the detailing in gold fabric paint on the wyvern, sew on a backing and tabs on the top for hanging. I then need to get T to make me some banner stands! Then it's off to make one for C too.

Still waiting......

2007-06-14T10:49:00.000+10:00

Well I was hoping to start on my Cotehardie while I am off work recovering from having two wisdom teeth removed but I'm just not up to it. Maybe by the weekend......

The begginings of a dress diary

2007-06-13T09:06:00.000+10:00

For my latest SCA (Society for Creative Anachronism) project I thought I would start a dress diary.....I have been meaning too for ages but just never got around to it!

I have decided to recyle my Elizabethan outfit as quite frankly, it just ain't practical, particularly when you live in a rather warm climate! I'm going to pull it apart and re-use the material out of the skirts. I love the style of the cotehardie so will be focusing my learning on that.

I have 'Period Patterns no 21' which is for cotehardies and sideless surcoats. I have finally cut the pattern pieces out - now I just need to make a draft one up! I have some courderoy that I bought cheap last winter and will make a test one out of that. Once I have it right, I will pull it apart and use that as my pattern for the 'real' one.

This could be an interesting challenge!