Sunday, February 28, 2021

Puzzling Pattern Making


    With some recent outside SCA feedback on my work; one comment/question circles around every so often. Would I create a pattern for a doll and its clothing? Which this question/comment leaves me a bit puzzled. Flattered that anyone would want a pattern made by myself but why do you want me to do this? 

    The reason I ask; there are many research costumers, historical reenactors more educated, who took much more time to research professionally on this topic, who consequently do make doll patterns for purchase. Its not as common as clothing patterns, but the doll patterns are out there and do exist. A well worded Google search, produces plenty of rabbit holes of patterns and links for purchase.  I know of a proprietor on Etsy who makes cloth blank dolls in all skint-ones for dressing. 

    Why do you want me to make a pattern? If I would make up a doll pattern, it wouldn't be free either. It would be a kit with instructions, a materials list and a pattern. Additionally since there are other patterns in existence, I do not want my pattern to be a "rip off" other peoples research for profit.  I do explain the patterns I use for my reproduction dolls and many come from other professionals. Which are fully cited in my work, plus I making my own heads/hands from clay and hand paint them. The clothing I scale down from full size clothing patterns to make the miniature reproductions by eye.

       If I was going to make a doll pattern for purchase, a stuffed wired cloth doll pattern would be the easiest to reproduce. Would be more generic to find a pattern to refine, I do have plenty of practice in this area.  Sculpted heads and hands are an option but one has to be careful on materials choices. All of which would have to survive possible shipping, by itself is it's own challenge.  

    Granted, this isn't meant to be an existential crisis, but this topic brings up more questions than answers for me. The main answer is to make a version of their own, which is a plausible logical answer. I will just have to find a copyright free way of making this possible. That the results of my pattern will actually look like a fashion doll and no some failed doll-craft attempt.   

Pondering reasonable possibilities,

Marrin 

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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