Class Handout- Renaissance on a Budget

Renaissance on a Budget

THL Isabelle de Calais 

Class handout for Kingdom A&S 10.26.2019

The idea of late period gets thrown about a lot in the SCA, but what does that really mean? For some it is just Elizabethan, others it is the 15th through 17th centuries. For the purpose of this class let’s limit the discussion to roughly 1480-1603.

Our goal here is to go through some of the common ways to cut down on budget while reproducing these looks for people new to the society or period. This is a class based on what has worked for me, but your own mileage may vary a bit. At the time of this class I have been active within the SCA for 12 years and helped many new people develop their wardrobes. I have always loved "late period" and many of these are tips I wish I had learned years ago,  pieces that helped me get started.

Step 1 - Plan an outfit


This might seem like a silly step, but all to often it is the most important and ignored. Take some time and look around at what people are wearing. Look at artwork from the period. Is there a specific look you gravitate towards?

Embrace it and fall down that rabbit hole. I personally will always start with a region and its history, look at the artwork and any surviving garments I can find on the web, dig through books, ask questions and make a plan before I ever touch scissors.


What is the social class this outfit will be? What fabrics should I use? Do you have a pattern?

Step 2- Gather your materials

• This probably one of the steps which will impact your budget most dearly.
• Semper Gumby - Stay Flexible. Know what you are willing to compromise on when you go out to find materials. Is there a specific color you need?
• Respect Your Budget- Your financial health is not worth a pretty dress no matter how pretty. In my experience I should plan to spend around $200 on a new outfit. Sometimes more sometimes less and that will cover EVERYTHING.
• Use what you Love- If you love that hot pink linen, use it. Don’t let someone else rain on your parade. We want you here and we want you to wear what you love. I don’t have to love it because you do and you’re awesome.
• Patterns and Directional fabric- Keep in mind if you are concerned with matching patterns on every seam you will need to get extra fabric.
• Time vs. Money- With modern reproductions and conveniences all around us it is easy to just buy something done. Historically this was not always so. Consider learning to do your own embroidery rather than store bought. Handmade buttons can cost pennies to make compared to ready made. Braiding your own laces can make strong personalized touches inexpensively.
• Shop the Sales- Many craft and fabric stores have loyalty and discount programs. Take the leap and sign up. I rarely buy a supply that is not on sale or without a coupon.
• Shop Online- Many of our own artists have now set up stores online carrying quality goods. If you are unsure of a fabric or trim outlet, speak with customer service about samples or see someone you trust has ordered previously. Many of us have our favorite shops.
• Go Thrifting- If you have the time to regularly haunt a few of your local thrift shops once you have a plan you might find wool blankets perfect for a cloak. Silk drapes for a new dress. Fur coats to recycle as linings and trim. Vintage Jewelry to recycle.
• Consider the period materials- Not every garment was made of bridal silk taffeta or velvet (roughly $30 per yard). High end materials have always had a cost associated with them. Consider a simple weave on your fabric. When doing corsetry: reeds were fairly common, and modernly a bundle are still less expensive than more modern steal boning.

Step 3- Let’s Get sewing

No matter you budget don’t be afraid to start making the thing! Here are a few tips that will help through this process.

• Look to the past- Remember that historically fabric was money. Most people did not waste if they could help it, so look up historical pattern layouts for ideas on how to save your money.
• Make a mock up- It might seem counter intuitive to spend money to make a one time use mock up, but it will save a lot of heartache to know your pattern works, rather than having to cut out pieces again with alterations.
• Grab a Buddy- Sometime sewing with a group can help you avoid costly mistakes like cutting 2 of the same piece, or you just need someone to bounce questions off of. If you can’t get someone to your home. Try phone a friend or online forums such as Elizabethan Costume or 16th Century Italian Workshop on Facebook. You are probably far from the first person to need help.
• Accessories- Your little additions will make your outfit and elevate its game. Usually accessories don’t take a lot of fabric and can be a great palette cleanser if your larger project is in time out. Do you need a hat, gloves, muff, pouch, partlet, contrasting sleeves, etc ……
• Consider the period practice- While some people could afford to have someone make yards of trim for purchase and placement on clothing this was not always the practice. Try slashing and pinking your garments to create pattern and texture. Spending a little more on quality fabric to decorate can save you tons of money on trims.

Step 4- Rock your new outfit!


You look awesome and I’m so proud of your accomplishment. If you decide to keep making late period clothing focus on building a wardrobe. Several shifts, a few gowns or suits,outerwear to keep you warm, and lots of accessories to make multiple outfits.


Happy Sewing!

Update: Fixed a few grammar and formatting issues I found on the original post.