Drafting a Body Block for Larger Figures

Drafting a Body Block for Larger Figures Drafting a Body Block for Larger Figures

Different body types have different needs when designing and fitting patterns. We will be addressing some of the unique aspects of drafting patterns for larger sizes and demonstrating how to a well fitted body sloper allows you to create patterns for a variety of historical periods.

Patterning for Hats

Patterning for Hats Patterning for Hats

How to turn an source image into a pattern - and a finished hat! Patterning hats seems daunting, but there are some easy techniques to getting the right shape, style and size to suit you and your outfit. We'll look at sizing up headforms, the patterning process and materials and methods for construction.

Reconstructing Hairnets from 13th to 16th Century

Reconstructing Hairnets from 13th to 16th Century Reconstructing Hairnets from 13th to 16th Century

Reconstructing hairnets from 13th to 16th century is a lecture on what we know about the hairnets of the period. How they probably were made, what materials and tools were used, how they were decorated and worn.
The lecture is from an artisans view point and concentrates on the challenges and solutions made while reconstructing extant pieces.
The lecturer is a Finn but the lecture will be in English. She has an MA in European ethnology and is a textile arts teacher. You can find her work on hairnets at www.knotsinanet.wordpress.com.

Seam Articulation: making fighting garb fit better

Seam Articulation: making fighting garb fit better Seam Articulation: making fighting garb fit better

We have evidence of articulated seams going back to at least the 14th century, mostly in garments designed for or fashioned after those worn in combat, where range of motion is critical and a snug fit beneath body armor is most comfortable. It might look daunting and strange at first, but articulation is well worth the effort to learn. It allows a better fit not only to the body while at rest, but to the motions that body is expected to do. It also creates a visually cleaner garment by removing bulk from the areas most prone to wrinkling and bunching.
In this class I will teach the basic principles of seam articulation. It will be most beneficial to those with some basic pattern modification skills (you don't need to be a skilled pattern drafter!) but all skill levels are welcome!

Veils, Fillets, and Wimples

Veils, Fillets, and Wimples Veils, Fillets, and Wimples

A brief history of draped headwear in medieval Western Europe, followed by a tutorial on drafting and sewing your own.