Wednesday, April 13, 2011

Mary, Mary Quite Contrary
















As I have had lots of time on my hands I have been able to delve back into my novel on Mary Queen of Scots. I didn't realize it was an omnibus which had three books. Right now I am finishing up the last and currently I am reading about her extensive embroidery she completed while captive in England. She even made some minor clothing and gift trinkets for family and Queen Elizabeth. My friend has a book specifically about her work and I am very interested in seeing what she completed. I will find out more on the embroidery book when I get to Embroidery Guild tomorrow.

Though I have a big plan for my Elizabethan gloves underway and posted my progress so far with some photos, just the embroidery is left and attaching the cuffs to the handmade gloves. Which not to my suprise I have small hands when I measured them according to the pattern I followed. I do not think it will take long for me to complete the two panels I have drawn up, very excited. Though the are complex and will look stunning as a gauntlet for my up coming Elizabethan costumes.

I also have an Elizabethan sweete bag in the wings when I get the gauntlets that are already started and coming along very well. That will accessorize the gown I just finished beautifully and it turned out very close to my original drawing. Plans are in the works to get photos up for all to see of the gown, keep your fingers crossed my camera agrees with me.

The book I am reading Mary Queen of Scots by Margaret George is so well written with descriptions that I want to read hers on Henry VIII if I can get hold of a copy. Though I am interested in a book about Brythonia in War Hammer Fantasy which is a fantasy realm like England, so I would have to decide which one to read next. Though there is no rush to get through either. Well for now lots of work to do and more in my future.

Sewing Busy,

Maureen
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Replica 1560's Venetian Italian Fashion Doll

Replica 1560's Venetian Italian Fashion Doll

Replica 1560 French Fashion Doll

Replica 1560 French Fashion Doll

Tudor Q and A

What is a Tudorosity?

A mashed combination of the words Tudor and Curiosity to create the word Tudorosity. Tudorosities is the plural form and the deffinition is as follows.

Tudorosity- an desire to learn or know anything about the Tudor dynasty associated with years 1405 through 1603.

Most people ask my why I make the Tudor garb ?

I find the clothing of this era not only beautiful but also challenging to sew. There is much more care and purpose put into making garments and wearing garments in the Tudor Era. I love the look of Tudor so much I wanted to explore the way clothes were made back then and the subtle changes in fashion and styles of time.

How did you get started in this interesting hobby?

I started with art first, I love to draw, paint, and sculpt all the traditional fine arts. So being able to draw helps me visualize the looks I want to create in my garb. History has always been a huge interest of mine and I've had a knack for sewing since I was 7 years old. It all started with doll clothes and I learned cross stitch embroidery from my grandmother when I was little. I am self taught sewer, crochet, knitting, embroidery and tatting. My methods are learned from books mainly and there is still so much more to learn.

What is my favorite outfit and why?

It would be like picking a favorite out of one of my future children, its impossible. I love all my gown creations and really like the distinct differences in all the styles clothing I make for the Tudor Era.

Do you make the whole outfit including hat, shoes, and undergarments?

I do have a goal of making a complete Tudor from the skin out. As of right now I make 90% of my gowns and accessories. The shoes and stockings, are bought online and the petticoats are a close reproduction but not made by me. .

How long does it take to make a gown?

It all depends on the type of gown. The making relies on the time period and class of the design. Generally if I work on it 8 hours a day on a sewing machine it will take 3 days to get the basics and another 5 days to do finish hand-sewing details and beading. So a week to a week and a half if working on it steady for that amount of time. I work a full-time job so it does take longer than a week to complete. I put over 40-100 hours per outfit depending on its complexity, its like its own full time job of sorts.

Do you make renaissance clothing for sale or custom orders?

No, due to new employment and changes in my lifestyle. Unfortunately, I have no time to support sewing for others. Though I recommend sewing lessons for those adventurous few. There are many fine folks who make and sell historical clothing. I suggest guidance with sew from many fine historical enthusiastic costumers out on the internet.

How long have you been making these elaborate costumes?

I have been in the Society of Creative Anachronism coming up on my 18th year. Active since 2004 working at demonstrations and volunteering when I could between working and other life's distractions. I really concentrated on Tudor sewing in 2007 and worked with patterns to learn proper fabrics, techniques, fit, and silhouette. I really enjoy the eras transition from a medieval form fitting layered cotterdie to the boned Tudor kirtle and then to structured Elizabethan clothing.

Replica 1490 Milan Italian Fashion Doll

Replica 1490 Milan Italian Fashion Doll
Based on art by Giovanni Ambrogio

O’Kealy Heraldry

O’Kealy Heraldry