I’m known as one of those people who eat to live. It’s true. Just give me the dinner plate and let me eat so I can get back to work. It’s a good thing my husband knows how to cook! But when the holidays come around I get busy in the kitchen. Not roasting turkey Read More...
Category: Jen’s Musings
How to Define The Costume-y Look and Decide If That’s What You Want
When something is described as “costume-y” what do you think of? Do you try to avoid this dreaded term being applied to your own projects? Everyone has their own idea of what makes a garment or outfit look costume-y. Is it the fit? Or the fabrics used? Or a crappy sewing job? What about simply Read More...
Costuming Keeps Us Dreaming
Have you ever been hammered by an “expert” or costume know-it-all? I certainly hope not, but I do know that there are some out there who would choose to tear apart someone’s best efforts. Aside from horrific behavior, it’s a shame to see someone who thinks they are above all and chooses to express it Read More...
You Can’t Be a Costumer Without Enjoying Chocolate: Brownies
Take a fork and just dig in! It seems most of the historical costumers I meet have three things in common. 1. Fabric-holic tendencies 2. Cats in the sewing room 3. A passionate love of chocolate A sometimes MAD passion for the delicious 5th food group. I posted on the Facebook wall that I happened Read More...
Mammy Says Scarlett Can’t Wear Her Corded Petticoat Anymore
If you’re a woman Civil War reenactor you’ve probably had a few discussions on hoopskirts – their size and construction – and their older cousin the corded petticoat. You may also know of the debate that rages about the historical accuracy of corded petticoats worn during the 1860s. Not to go into great detail Read More...
Costume College 2011 Report
What a great weekend! Seriously! Some Costume Colleges go by as ‘blah.’ This one, although it flew by, was a terrific event! It was a blast to meet up with old friends and meet new ones – including many of you who follow me here and on Facebook. Thanks for introducing yourselves to me! I Read More...
How to Stay Motivated on a Single Project
A while back my friend Gina wanted to know how to stay motivated on one project before starting another one. Goodness!That’s like preparing the dinner menu while eating lunch. It can be done – by being focused on ONE idea at a time. (And you shouldn’t talk while eating anyway. Swallow first.) We creative people all Read More...
What Everyone Ought to Know About Wearing a Victorian Corset
I first experienced wearing a corset eleven years ago. I thought it was the coolest thing ever as I LOVED Victorian clothes. So much wisdom has been gained over the years of making and wearing that “body armor” that I gladly pass on my experience to you to keep you on your feet and moving. Read More...