I frequently get questions from our many readers about patterns that call for both an underlining/interlining fabric as well as a full lining fabric for a bodice and even skirts. They range from “So that makes three layers, right?” to “How in the world do I add all those layers of fabric?” and “Won’t all Read More...
More Dirndl Goodness
So many of you have followed me throughout the years – thank you! – and noticed when I started talking about Bavarian (Germany) and Austrian dirndls. It was just over two years ago. You can watch a Facebook Live I did in February 2018 when my excitement blossomed. It’s so thrilling to have discovered in Read More...
Bustle Era Changes – The Highs & Lows in the 1870s & 1880s
Ahh.. the Victorian Bustle Era. It’s so pretty! And aside from the huge poufy sleeves of the 1890s, it’s what most people think of when they hear “Victorian.” It’s the trimming. The opulence. The expensive laces. The multitude of fabrics – all on the same gown. But did you know there are three distinct varieties Read More...
Spoonflower Fabrics: My First Experiences
In a world with thousands of fabrics in various prints and designs and colors, sometimes you just don’t find what you’re looking for. Enter Spoonflower (in 2008) to allow us to order fabric in custom prints. Whoot! The concept is fabulous! However, as the company was starting to grow many of us sew-ers were curious Read More...
Podcast 016: Creativity Thru the Decades -Interview with Mom
As we age, those of us who have been creative over the years can look back at all we’ve accomplished and be amazed. We can also ponder what we’d still like to learn and remember those crafts that have truly meant the world to us. Perhaps we even recall how sewing and crafting have been Read More...
Podcast 015: Try Something New
Occasionally we get quite wrapped up in our main area of crafting. Right? Yet, other hobbies and interests in the creative fields call to us. You know, that “someday I want to learn” [fill in the blank] thought. We’re all about sewing around here. But every once in a while we want to tackle something Read More...
Costume College 2019
Another great weekend event! So fun to spend time with old friends, and meet SO many new people – even if you’ve been following me for years – yay! After all the online drama that occurred this past year regarding Costume College (specifically at the beginning of the calendar year) I was doubting my attendance. Read More...
Podcast 014: Bringing Historical Fashion into Your Modern Wardrobe
Perhaps you’ve been thinking about how to incorporate your love of historical fashion with your everyday lifestyle but find it challenging to wear a bustle dress to your weekly grocery store outing. You are not alone! So many of us in the historical costuming community have – for years! – been trying to add those Read More...