The Tudor Revolution

  Detachable sleeves are one of my favorite things to make for renaissance dresses, and always seem to be the last thing I think to make when I'm planning my outfits. These sleeves are made from thrift store fabric to mimic one possible way that "cut work sleeves" were made in the period. There are several theories, and my research has made me think that they all may have been in use at different points in time for different specific motifs. To make these sleeves I used a voided velvet scarf I found at my local thrift store and remnants of rayon velvet, silk shantung, and linen. Techniques I cover in the video include basting, hemming stitches, and how to easily sew with velvet. I completed the project using a mix of hand sewing and a modern sewing machine. I love wearing these Italian renaissance dresses at reenactment events or when I attend events for the Society of Creative Anachronism. Groups like this have helped me learn more about how period techniques and mate...

  I really love when I can find new uses for old things. Upcycling give me so much joy when it comes to creating historical costuming. For me, one of the best parts of historical clothing is the small details, which includes jewelry. When I first saw this 1980s style gold necklace at my local thrift store I immediately started thinking of ways I could alter it for a 16th century choker necklace. The exact embellishment of these necklaces would change over the century so I had a lot of options to think over. Because I am a member of the Society for Creative Anachronism, I thought it would be fun to include a peerage medallion in this process as well. While I do not officially speak for the Society for Creative Anachronism, I do love sharing projects I work on for this hobby. On this thrift store jewelry upcycle I used head pins, round jewelry pliers, a pendant, and freshwater pearls. Below are some links to similar items I was able to find on Amazon if you are curious. Links are af...