Adelheid in the SCA

It was time to try doing sleeves.  Using Morgan Donner's "Drafting a Medieval Kirtle Dress Pattern" video as a guide, I drafted sleeves.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yED06QFK2Q4  These were ok, but I wanted them sightly looser and the swirly twirly s curve was a bit too voluminous. So tried again... I cut down the s curve and the seam allowance, that's why it looks so much shorter. I also widened the sleeve to the original seam allowance at the wrist.  This seems to have worked. I measured the s curve on the pattern against the armscythe and they seemed to match. I went ahead and "mounted the arm piece". It fit so much better than I anticipated, and didn't have to gather or fuss over anything. And here's me with it on, lacing not done up but you get the idea. Could be a touch higher on the shoulder. Could be a curved sleeve like some kirtle patterns have so it's not so bulky especially around th...

Adelheid needs an everyday outfit. The ultimate goal is a linen undershirt, grey linen waisted kirtle, and a Burgundian gown of heavy blue wool with fur trim. Then sleeves, apron and a cap to match. Gorgeous!! But to get there, I need to learn how to do a few things, including how to draft/fit things for my body. I've had some initial luck using a purchased pattern for the Italian outfit, which has given me the confidence to try to draft my own pattern. Mr. and I found some suit wool at a thrift store which wasn't period, but the price was right (8 bucks for several wide yards), so if it didn't work out the cost was low. I grit my teeth and gave it a gentle wash and dry. Using some spare fabric, I mocked up bodices a few different ways before hitting on Morgan Donner's videos, "Drafting a Medieval Kirtle Dress Pattern" and "Making a Medieval Heraldic Dress" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yED06QFK2Q4  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KXv5I1A3WQQ The d...

I figured out how to sew around an eyelet! And that's about a good enough place to start a blog as any.  I've been struggling with the eyelet hole since November, when I threw that project to the side and ordered grommets. (I'll post about that outfit later - it's a fun Italian number.) But today, it finally clicked. Needle into the hole, back to front, trap the thread, repeat. Look at that gorgeous thing! YIS, AW