Sunday, October 31, 2021

Kyra Loom Facts

The Kyra Looms were made in Springville, New York; just south of Buffalo. These looms were not manufactured by a large company, but rather a small business owner who made looms to order. Kyra looms are no longer made, small loom company closed in 1981.

From other comments online, I was finding information that many of the looms were made from Hardwood Cherry. Many have done well with standing the test of time as a utilitarian kind of item, so far. Many comments mention they require little maintenance, take standard loom care, and seem to work well over all. Many mention about the sturdy build but furniture like quality of the materials. 


One of the negatives is that the metal heddles don't slide well, which is what I do find with mine on occasion. There is a mention about a storage tray addition that could be added when made, mine didn't have this feature. Although is smaller loom and meant to fold away for storage and is a super handy feature.

Didn't realize how lucky this find was went I purchased this loom in January of 2016. A late Christmas gift to myself, its keeps on giving. Depending on the size, the price tends to range from $400-$800. The looms are assembled in such a way that they would be easy to fix or adjust on ones own. If I should find a Kyra loom in the 36" to 45" range with 6 or 8 shaft will consider the purchase, as they are definitely a quality loom. Not sure if I could be so fortunate twice, but who knows what the future holds.

When my loom is not in use, I do cover her with a fleece blanket. Even when folded down, I cover to her to avoid a major dusting that would be needed if not covered. I haven't needed to do such things with my spinning wheels, I periodically do a dusting every few months.  The picture blanket was a favorite cat blanket but that happens commonly in my house. Weaving and fiber arts does have a magical element of making something from just basic materials into something epic. So in homage to the process and its elements of magic, the sun and moon print seemed appropriate. 

Happy Halloween and Peaceful Samhain,

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