Kristen: HSF Challenge #4 Pink

The Challenge: #3 Pink

Fabric: 7 yards 

Pattern: Tailor's Guide Civil War Workdress, my own tweaks!

Year: Civil War 1860-64

Notions: Cotton thread, metal hooks/eyes

How historically accurate is it? It it very accurate with all the materials used, though I did machine stitch the skirt. It is made withe the correct materials and nearly the same period method (I attempted!).

Hours to complete: 10-20, still working!

First worn: Will be worn for Greenfield Village this year!

Total cost: $40-50

I fell in love with this pink pattern! At first I thought I was a bit young for pink, but I was reassured that I could wear this fabric. Plus, I often portray a much younger lady. Unfortunately work on my Master's thesis has interfered with the completion of this project. All I have left to do is the sleeves, waistband, and skirt. This dress will definitely stand out at my next reenactment!

~Kristen

Kristen: 21st Michigan Civilian Meeting

Whew! So I've noticed how much less I've been posting on the blog this month. Since I'm not doing weekly academic posts for my blog (I have weekly times working on my thesis...), I have less of a blogging schedule. Things have gotten hectic after Christmas, and Becky's little one is just ready to be born soon! The timing of the 21st Michigan civilian meeting was perfect!

**All photos in this post by Ken Giorlando**

Part of the reason that I love the 21st Michigan so much is that the members truly enjoy each other's company. Everyone is friendly, and ready to gush about the improvements of the year. Another favorite aspect of this group; we want to continue authenticity, as well as have fun!

The meeting  was very productive. Ken Giorlando had plenty of compliments to offer the group, as well as key points to address for this upcoming season. Members chimed in to give advice or appreciate others. I took it upon myself to think of my own shortcomings; I can't sit still for more than 10 minutes, so I brought my sewing basket to work on whilst listening. Does the fabric look familiar??

I even had a short presentation prepared for the group! I created a worksheet (duh, teacher!) that asked my fellow members to write reenacting goals, list steps and resources, and then set a reasonable time line. It may seem like obvious advice, but with these chaotic times, it is easy to get overwhelmed! Everyone filled out the goals sheet, and waited patiently to eat some of that delicious chicken soup Mrs. Giorlando made for dinner. Also, I posed for some rather pensive looking photos. I always did have a dramatic flair...

Finally, everyone left...and I stayed to hang out! I've had a bit of a head cold as of late, and I just didn't feel up to the drive right away. The Giorlandos have a 19th century room in their house, with antiques, furniture, and period lighting. I could imagine escaping to this room to relax during a stressful modern day. At some point in my life I would like such a parlor in my home. Dreams for the future! 

 Now I'm ready to work on my thesis again...or maybe I'll just blog...

 ~Kristen

Kristen: HSF Challenge #2 Innovations

The Challenge: #2 Innovations

Fabric: 4 silk/wool pashmina scarves

Pattern: Loosely based on La mode Bagatelle

Year: Around 1808-1814

Notions: Cotton thread, metal hooks/eyes

How historically accurate is it? It it very accurate with all the materials used, though I did machine stitch the skirt. The rest is hand stitched.

Hours to complete: 7-10, with many breaks

First worn: I will hopefully 

Total cost: $45

I chose this for the innovations challenge because I just keep seeing these lovely scarves pop up as dresses on pinterest! Kashmir shawls were a rare treat in England during the Regency period, and to be able to make one into a dress was a sure sign of affluence. Eventually Scotland developed their own version of the shawls, making them more affordable to the populace. At one time though, the kashmir was a sought-after innovation!

Until next time!

~Kristen