Monday, May 12, 2025

Melee Madness

So my plan was to meet up with my friend Ashley. To drape a pattern, for some Tudor kirtles and over gowns. Well plans rarely go as intentioned. I was able to retain, caught up with prior friends. Made some new friends and some crafting done during the day.

 The highlight of the day was witnessing that same friend receive their Fleur d’Athelmearc. This is a grant level award, which means that you get to participate in the process of voting for new candidates. Sponsor those who are working on their art through some kingdom level events. Was a complete suprise to get to see a long time friends achieve a goal of theirs they have been working towards for years. Bursting with happiness for her!   

I was able to get some time with work on my most recent dolls project. This porcelain was procured at thift store for a whole $7.99.  She did have this gold lame style dress with a gold net overlay. So her outfit was historical looking elements to start with. For some reason, they had the cap of her veil too far forward. Luckily it was sewn not glued into the hair, I was able to just snip the threads and reposition it towards the back of the head.

Redesigning the original gown gold net overlay to not be gathered at one spot. Added  some Simplicity brand gold lace to give it more pizzazz. In medieval and Renaissance fashion more was more, if you had it flaunt it.  Also trimmed the under layer bodice and puffed sleeves with same lace. 

Court gowns had more trims and embroidery than the normal gowns worn by courtiers. Restoration clothing didnt do much trims that court normally wore. She is making me think of Charles II Restoration England after the English Civil War style vibes. 

The next step is pearls! Thinking bracelets and a one nice size collarbone length strand. Along with some around the top of her veil. Vida, a courtly Restoration bride Wedding dresses back, then were not necessarily white. They were normally a best version of what you had in your wardrobe.  Which means many people wore their wedding dress over and over again.

 This doll made me think of Patrick Swayze’s character Vida Bohem. This strong square jawline that made me think of the character, so I am going to call her Vida.

Witnessing his Majesty and new apprentice take oaths was lovely highlight. Made me think of when I did that in front on Tim and Gabrielle. Thinking of day tripping Saturday for War Practice. 

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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