Sewing news!
Since the Bathhouse sent out some e-mails that Fort Fred is 17 weeks away, I figured I should think about a wardrobe.
Weather can be unpredictable at that time of year, but I've been thinking about the Chemise gown I have fabric for. It might be just perfect for the weather, or could be a disaster. The first year I went, it was 90, last year, 40. No matter--if I can't wear it, I can show it off.
I've started with a cap. I had cut this cap out when I lived in Thorofare (almost 2 years ago) and it's an early 1790s style. I have the bands and ruffled put together and hemmed, just need to gather and sew together. I was going to finish it Thursday night, but after a surprise extra derby practice (see previous post) and some midnight crazies on the part of the cats, I can't find my thread or needles! I search for them today.
While looking for something else in a bin, I found a few scraps leftover from the leine I made for a friend a few years ago, whose scraps made my handkerchief and current cap, and figured I had enough for a round-eared cap. The nice thing about them--it seems they were worn for a good 50 years or so, showing up in images from the 1750s through the early 1800s on working class folk. Since 1812 is coming, and I might want to pop in and visit some F&I friends, my dormeuse won't work and one can't have too many caps.
I also pulled out my bonnet patterns--if I can't have a new outfit done in time, I at least have some new accessories! I also have been unable to find my favorite handkerchief, and have given up the search, so I'll need a new one of them. I have silk for a black one trimmed with plum, and enough blue/silver silk for a later period one. I still have been unable to find chipboard, so I wonder if a shellacked thin cardboard will work.
The most recent trip to the library brought home Fashion in Detail, What Clothes Reveal and Costume in Detail. I've been poring over them with awe. Costume in detail has a drawing of a quilted brunswick I've been rolling around in my brain. I've also been fascinated with the concept of updating clothing, and wondering if anyone in the living history community has done so. Next time I go, I want to snag Costume Close Up and Fashion in France and England 1750-1820. In addition to the clothing books, I have A Few Bloody Noses and Daily Life During the Revolution, and Outlander, which I have not read in 8 or 9 years. Mom gave me The Exile for Christmas, so I want to refresh my memory. The Exile is a graphic novel of Outlander (mightly abridged) from Jamie's and Murtagh's POV, so there's a little extra. The women's costumes will make your eyes bleed. I understand one has time constraints when drawing for a comic, but jeez louise. Why bother talking about stays if you aren't going to have anyone wear any. Other than that, it's enjoyable, but only get it if you are an insane Outlander Series fan.