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...
Category: Jen’s Musings
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...
Did Our Ancestors Celebrate the Past?
Moonlight Serenade by Glenn Miller popped up next on my iPod. As I listened I thought of some friends who love the 1930s and 40s. They are World War II reenactors, swing dancers and club hoppers. They scour vintage and second-hand shops looking for that “new” fur wrap or handbag to add to their vintage Read More...
Observations from a Steampunk Con Newbie
This past weekend I attending the Inagural Voyage of Z.R.A. Gaslight (aka Gaslight Gathering) in beautiful San Diego, California. It was inspiring and insightful. And FUN! I taught my Victorian Corset Tips & Tricks class which was well-attended. Then sat on panels for both What Women Wore When and Where: Styles During the Victorian Period Read More...
Finding the Motivation to Finish
A Regency dress should be simple to finish. Two or three skirt seams, a bodice seam, set onto a waistband, set in sleeves, neckline bias and back closure and Done! Yeah, right. Although it IS easy, that “simple” dress has been on my sewing table for two months now. TWO! I guess when you’re in Read More...