Wednesday, April 23, 2014

Here comes the lady with the alligator purse.

A few weeks ago, my mother and I went to a vintage textile show and I came away with two amazing scores. The first is a vintage handbag with *gasp* a real alligator! The only flaw is an easily fixed strap, and it'll be ready to wear.

The second is a pair of vintage frames. My mother plonked these on my face and I've loved them ever since!


Next time: a new challenge!

Monday, April 7, 2014

HSF '13 #7: A Not-Quite-Easter Bonnet.

Well, spring has sprung, Mr. G has survived the opening weekend of Faire, and this fortnight's theme is Tops and Toes, a challenge after my own heart! Not only did I get to make a tall hat to go with my later 1880's gear, but I actually have construction pictures!


I found this old straw hat in the garage and separated the crown from the brim, leaving a little lip so that the modified crown could be sewn back on. 

I made a base for the new crown out of sinamay and started unraveling the crown. After ripping a few rows off it, I left the brim in a sink full of hot water for an hour or two.

While the brim was soaking, I sewed the braid of the crown to the sinamay base. I then reattached the brim, and pinned it into shape overnight. Add some ribbon and flowers, and voila! Instant hat!



  • Historical Sew Fortnightly 2014 thedreamstress.com

The Challenge: Tops and Toes
Fabric: Um, sinamay?
Pattern: Nope
Year: 1880's
Notions: Thread, ribbon, and flowers
How historically accurate is it? Completely hand sewn
Hours to complete: About a day and a half
First worn: Not yet
Total cost: Free

Tuesday, April 1, 2014

HSF '14 #6: One dancing princess, worn out shoes sold separately.

 This fortnight's challenge is fairytale. One of my favorite stories growing up was the Twelve Dancing Princesses, and since most of the costumes I make get worn to balls, I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to make a bodice for the Pink Eugenie skirt


I had a little better lighting than the last time I tried to photograph this dress, so the color is much closer to real life. I have more of this pink silk, and I might make a day bodice to go with it.


And Esca, adding the finishing touches

  • Historical Sew Fortnightly 2014 thedreamstress.com
With each post or photo be sure to give your item a name/title and tell us:
The Challenge: Fairytale
Fabric: Pink silk dupioni
Pattern: Original
Year: 1850's
Notions: Thread, embroidered lace
How historically accurate is it? Machine sewn
Hours to complete: Half a week
First worn: Not yet
Total cost: Free