Saturday, February 9, 2019

Mysterious Discoveries


Working away on the new dolls. Compared to sewing during the week the sculpting procees is a nice change of pace. Much sanding, cutting, molding and smoothing going on. With each layer less mannequin like and more human like. Going to put a layer of gesso (paint+glue) then paint with gouache. Here is to hoping that I can start dressing then in a week or two.

Had to make a run to my local artist supply shop, Brushstrokes. I can find some unusual supplies and tool plus get feedback on products than at the big box stores. It’s so funny have worked for one and now small business savvy with my thrift shops bookstores and local community. It’s very refreshing in today’s tech age to help your neighbor succeed in business.

Organized some linen for the smock layer, although it will need  patterned and sewen. I have black silk to line the back of metallic embroidery. I also plan on using the black for hat along with grey velvet ribbon. So I have a missive put on one of the groups to figure out the kind of hat that the doll is wearing in the portrait. I have my guesses of a riding hat with feathers and jewels or a coifed veil headress with jewels and feathers. So far it’s a perplexing question,  although hoping to have one of the more millenry folks give a shot at it.

Just discovered a research source for dolls (pippins) in Mary Queen of Scots personal possessions. Accounting to 19 dolls belonging to MQS in the research document, goes on further also accounting the likelihood of dolls of similar fashion and ornate dress to be owned by Catherine De Medici and  Elizabeth Tudor.So big news I have saved it as a source for later rereading. As one who loves share knowledge, I can since this information is public. Though it’s on a Scottish heritage website for free here is a link to an excellent article about the project and the document is linked within;  Mary Queen of Scots Fashion Dolls

Well here is to mysteries and discoveries,

THL Marrin O’Kealy
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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