Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Finding a Notion

Finally made a trip to Joann's to get some supplies I have been desperately needing. Bought more covered boning, just ran out of this too. Which I love the covered boning makes it so much easier to sew into bodices. Picked up several decorative large hooks in gold and silver for the outside of the gowns, that are currently in the progress. I am really excited to see how they will turn out. Of course the results will be posted when completed, though that will be sometime from now.

Also picked up some hook and eyes for the insides of gowns to keep them together, was running low on those. Got some lovely pearl ended pins in leaf and heart shapes. They will be some awesome veil pins or small hat pins. Also found a new drawstring threader for my skirts, was looking for more findings for collar of dresses and such but was not finding enough of certain types.

Recently I made a 30 second teaser trailer and posted it on YouTube for an upcoming video for my Elizabethan Gowns. Those gowns are in production now ;-) So much to do and so little time. Oh its going to be really awesome when I get them done, pictures taken, and picture slide show produced.

Here is the link to the trailer:

http://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.youtube.com/watch%3Fv%3DuVVcbq1UgAk&sa=U&ei=ZR0PT93rH4WnsQLfu_yGBA&ved=0CBIQFjAA&usg=AFQjCNE-56WjIYHJfXrW_wcwNkQ2pxRO7Q


Well right now working on the peach bodice still and not as far as I would like, though on the reading front I am keeping pace with my chapter a day quota. Which for me to sit and read for that long is amazing. Guess this is how I should approach reading in the future, would be able to get lots of books done in a decent period of time.

No pattern books from England yet, I feel like I am sitting on and egg waiting for it to hatch;-) Did get my Renaissance rings though, they are prefect Tudor finger rings. Very pleased that my real Tudor gem collection is growing, yay! Well that is all that is new for now, will keep informed of all the fun and exciting things with sewing.

Courtly Salutations,

Lady Mairin O'Cadhla
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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