Organdy: The Costumer’s Dream Fabric

It was a distinct turning point in my historical costuming. I thought I was doing pretty good – my costumes were fairly accurate in style, my undergarments were all present, and my fabric selections did not include polyester or nylon. I soaked up all I could on how to make my Victorian clothing better. What I Read More...

Podcast 009: Cottons for Bustle Dresses

Is cotton historically appropriate to use for Victorian bustle dresses? Enthusiastically -YES! Day and evening wear from the 1870s and 1880s abounds in various cotton weaves used in the late 19th century. In this episode Jennifer talks about her favorite fabric, cotton, with its wonderful properties of being easy-to-sew, breatheable, washable and with strength and Read More...

Podcast 003: Organdy Fabric Basics

Organdy is a beautiful fabric ideal for a variety of historical and vintage garments as well as inner layer/underlining support. Learn about the technical details including the weave, finish variances, and differences from organza and crinoline materials. Jennifer will cover various garments, accessories and trims where organdy is best used with sewing tips that help Read More...

For the Love of Dirndls – Fabric Options

Hello Fabrics!!! In continuing my current obsession of dirndls, I wanted to cover fabrics one can use to make these wonderful ensembles for daily wear or special occasions. Before jumping into your fabric stash be sure to review my post on general elements of dirndl and Trachten wear, then also my post on dirndl patterns Read More...

The Autumn Dress Fabrics, The Delineator, October 1902

  THE AUTUMN DRESS FABRICS WITH ILLUSTRATIONS IN ACTUAL SIZE, OF NEW DESIGNS IN FANCY VELVETS, AND VELVET CORD This 2-page article was featured on pages 546 & 547 of the October 1902, The Delineator magazine. Just think! Our great grandmothers were pouring over these fabric & color hints to get the latest news of Read More...

How to Flatline a Bodice

Flatlining. No it’s not dying in pursuit of that ultimate dream costume. Neither is it the process of killing your bodice to make it work. Ha! (Although, it feels like it kills us sometimes!) I use the term “flatlining” often when describing this historical sewing technique. It is also called “mounting” and “adding an underlining.” Read More...