Basic Guidelines

For a few years now my “Basic Guidelines” brochure has been a favorite of several groups across the country. I often get emails asking if it can be used for a group the sender belongs to. Of course, I’m happy to share and feel honored that a group wants to use my guidelines for thier members. The printable brochure has been ideal for sharing with new members who undoubtably have many questions. I made a point to fill it with just enough resource links to be helpful but not quite overwhelming. It has been a few years since it has been updated with revised links. So, here it is in a text/post version with updated links. I will be updating the printable pdf as soon as I can.

What Do I Do at an Event?

The best thing you can do as a new person at an event is talk with people.

This is a great way to learn and make contacts. Some events will require you to stay in first person while others allow you to be yourself. Either way, talk, ask questions, learn.

Stay hydrated and eat small meals. The excitement of an event combined with often hot weather conditions can take a toll on your body. It is very important to stay well hydrated. If you are thirsty, you are already dehydrated. You will also find it easier to eat small meals. Heavy food can make some stomachs ill in the heat or wearing clothing you are not accustom to.

Attend informational sessions if they are available. Some events have lectures or presentations for you to attend. Bring a small pad of paper and a pencil to write down questions, points you want to double check, and references.

If the event is located on a historic location or at a museum, take the time to see their collections and what resources they have. It would be a shame to miss them.

At events where you will find yourself at you “home base”, whether that is a tent, house, or porch, be sure to bring something to do. This can be a small piece of needlework, knitting, a piece of sewing, or a book to read. Visitors are likely to ask questions. Tell them what you know and be comfortable saying “I don’t know” when you don’t.

Many new reenacters enjoy seeing what is available at an event, including sutler row. If you feel you really must go shopping please read “The Shopping Itch” first.

Give yourself some down-time to let everything sink in. Some find keeping a journal or writing a letter helpful.

Elizabeth Clark has written several articles concerning hygiene, event safety, and improving your experience:

http://www.thesewingacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2010Scentury.pdf

http://www.thesewingacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2010ChildSafety.pdf

http://www.thesewingacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2010ValueEvents.pdf  

What Do I Wear?

Your initial wardrobe should include foundation garments, underclothing, and a basic dress plus a few accessories.

Foundation garments:

Corset – Your corset will need to be custom fitted for the best fit. You can also make your own corset. This garment is essential for providing you support and giving your dress the right shape. Consider Originals by Kay, Farthingales for sources

Cage Crinoline – A cage crinoline or a covered cage will land between your ankle and calf in length. The circumference will be between 90” and 120” with a round or elliptical bell shape, not a cone. Consider Originals by Kay or Needle & Thread for sources

Under Garments:

Drawers – Your drawers serve as you underwear. These are split and attached at the waist to a waistband. See http://www.thesewingacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2010Drawers.pdf for free directions to making your own.

Chemise – Your chemise is your upper undergarment. It protects you from your corset and your corset from you. See http://www.thesewingacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2010Chemise.pdf for free directions for making your own.

Modesty Petticoat – This petticoat is worn under your crinoline. The length will land around your lower calf.

Petticoats – You will want multiple petticoats. You will want two to go over your crinoline which are a couple inches longer than your crinoline. You will want one or two to wear with any dress not worn with a crinoline. These will be slightly longer than the modesty petticoat. See http://www.thesewingacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2010Petti.pdf or Skirting the Issue for directions for making petticoats.

Basic dress:

One Piece Dress. – You will want a one piece dress. If you choose a cotton print dress, look for one with a gathered bodice, gauged skirt, and long bishop or coat sleeves. To better understand each of these components read The Dressmaker’s Guide to Fit & Fashion and Who Wore What.

Accessories:

Boots/shoes – Accurately made boots and shoes will be an expensive investment initially. You will want a boot with a low ½ inch heal and a square toe which uses eyelets to lace up the front or side.

Stockings – Solid color cotton, wool, or silk stockings are acceptable. These should reach comfortably above the knee to be secured with a garter. Tight stockings will become uncomfortable and cause your legs to swell.

Head Covering – You will need a bonnet for sun protection or social situations. Please read “Types of Bonnets” and “Anatomy of a Bonnet”

Outerwear – You will want at least a shawl. You may want a coat depending on the weather.

Who am I? And What do I need to bring?

These two questions depend greatly on the “impression” you develop. This means creating a character or persona you will portray at an event. At most events you will be free to pick any person who fits into the event. At some

events you will have a person assigned to you that fits the research for that event.

Things to consider while you develop your persona include:

Event time and place – Each event is usually based on a specific town or battle location. Some locations were agriculturally based while others were more merchant or industrially based. This will give a context for your impression.

Economic classes were divided into poor, working class, upper working/merchant class, leisure class.

Employment – Financial status for women almost always depended on the employment of their husband, father, or son. A few women were employed as well. As the war progressed, a woman may have been increasingly effected by the state of her providers employment.

Leisure activities can be important for an impression. Activities such as sewing, knitting, embroidery can be depicted at events.

Social interaction can say a great deal about a woman’s impression. If financially able she may participate in a social movement, religious activity, or charitable acts.

Once you’ve developed who your character or persona is, you will need to decide what you accouterments you will bring reflecting that impression.

Eating utensils – You will need some thing to eat with. The dishes and utensils you choose can depict your social and financial status. Consider china or iron stone dishes.

Seating – Some choose to bring their own seating. If you are a poor or poorer working class person, you will not want to bring a fancy chair. Viceversa, if you are well off, you likely will not have a rude bench on your porch.

Accessories and Miscellaneous– Fashionable or comfortable women are more likely to have accessories such as a parasol or fashion bonnet. A working class woman may be shopping in town carrying a large market basket.

 IMPORTANT – Please pack your filed in Medical form in a location where it will be carried with you at all times.

What do I pack everything in?

Depending on the type of event you may need to pack everything you need in period appropriate boxes or luggage or you will be able to unpack your things from modern containers which remain in the car. For period containers and luggage consider these options:

Carpet bags – There were a variety of carpet bags and other handbags during the mid-century. Some were manufactured while other were handmade. These are easy to pack soft goods in such as clothing. They are easy to carry.

Trunks – Trunks vary in size and shape. Original pre-war trunks should be reproduced for use as most originals are delicate and valuable. Trunks are good for transporting most materials and give some protection against moisture. Large or heavy trunks can be difficult to transport.

Wooden packing Boxes – small to medium size reproduced boxes can be good for packing a variety of items and can protect against moisture. Depending on the wood and what is packed inside they can be heavy and difficult to carry. Construction should use period techniques.

Pasteboard boxes – Pasteboard boxes are nice for storing and transporting smaller items or those you want protected like a bonnet. These can be made with a base box, period wallpaper and interior paper. These are sensitive to moisture.

Cloth Sacks – Simple sacks or even pillowcases can be an easy way to carry soft goods. These are especially appropriate for a poorer impression

What do I need to sleep in?

You may choose to sleep on the ground, on a pallet, or on a cot. In either case you will want bedding appropriate for the weather. Items you may want to consider using:

Gum blanket or painted cloth – If you are sleeping directly on the ground, you will need a waterproof layer to keep the rest of your bedding from getting moist.

Bed ticking or feather bed – Whether you are sleeping on the ground or a cot, a bed ticking or feather bed will soften where you sleep. This item can be bulky to pack. A straw ticking can include insects and be a fire hazard.

Sheets – In variable to hot weather, sheet are comforting.

Wool blankets – Wool, layered under the bedding will reduce moisture.

Quilts – Be sure to choose period fabrics and piecing. A strip quilt is one of the easiest to make. The inside batting can be wool or cotton. A wool batted quilt as the top layer on a bed will also help with moisture.

What do I eat?

It is easier to bring period appropriate foods in period appropriate containers. This way you do not have to worry about hiding inaccuracies. Foods can include in season fruits and vegetables, dried fruits, dried vegetables, dried meats, breads, hard cheeses, dried beans, and period cookies. To store you food consider:

Tin works well for dry goods.

Crocks can keep things a bit cooler. Some have lids.

Fabric bags can carry fruit, vegetables, cookies, etc..

Parchment paper is good for wrapping cheese and meat.

For more ideas on bringing food that does not require a cooler along with a couple recipies, read “No Refrigeration Required” http://www.elizabethstewartclark.com/GAMC/LS/PDF/No%20Refrigeration.pdf

For recipes visit: http://digital.lib.msu.edu/projects/cookbooks/html/browse_date.html#1854

Where do I stay?

At most events in this area you will stay in a tent if you stay on site. There are several options for a tent. (Some events will require all civilian tents to blend in with military tents. This will limit your tent choices to correctly

made military wedge tents.) When choosing a tent to purchase consider how many people will stay in the tent, how much room you will need, how you will transport your tent, and how you will be able to set up a tent. Ridge

poles can be cut in half with a center connecter to enable them to fit in vehicles better.

Wedge tents – These are shaped like an “A”. These vary in height, width and length. They require two vertical poles and a ridge pole. They provide ample floor space with a reduced amount of standing space. Doors can be placed in the front or both the front and the back. Wedge tents are generally easy to set up with one or two people.

Wall tents – These tents have sides with walls ranging from 12” to 3 feet. These also vary in height, width, and length. Taller items can be placed along the walls and you will be able to stand in the entire tent. Wall tents require two vertical poles, a ridge pole, shorter side poles, and numerous ropes. It takes a minimum of three people to set this tent up.

Ground cloth – Tents come without floors. A ground cloth is cut the size of the interior of your tent. This can serve as your floor with minimal protection from moisture and dirt. Some choose to use carpeting instead.

Flies – Flies were originally used over top of the tent to shield it from the sun and rain or as a separate shelter. Many civilians choose to use as a sitting area in front of their tent. Depending on the set-up, a fly will need 2- 12 vertical poles, a ridge pole, and numerous ropes.

Published in: on August 18, 2011 at 8:02 am  Leave a Comment  

Keep it Simple…. Keep it in Budget

Whether sensitive to the economy, saving for a new home, planning for a child’s college or struggling with an income growing slower than idea, we all seem to be thinking about our budgets lately. At the same time we want to enjoy our hobby. This crazy hobby that at times can cost a pretty penny.

For many women enjoying the hobby means a new dress. The idea of a new dress can spark a myriad of tempting ideas dancing through our heads of fabrics, colors, prints, weaves, necklines, sleeves, trims and the like. Before we know it we may have a beautiful dress designed in our imagination that is anything but budget wise? So, how does a woman get that new dress while keeping with a budget?

Keep it simple… Keep it practical… Keep it versatile… Keep it in Budget

Are you asking “What does that mean?”

First, if you have read them, I want you to go read three articles. If you have read them, I want you to go back and read them again. These are Liz Clark’s Assembling the Best Bet Wardrobe and The Cost of Accuracy 2010 (where on page 3 you will find a guide on how to assemble a wardrobe for $20 a month) and my Anatomy of a Dress.  (If the links to Liz’s articles don’t work, they are here in her Compendium)

Now, let us look at that dress that is simple, practical, versatile and in Budget.

This dress isn’t the same for everyone. It needs to suit your age, roles, 19th century social status and kinds of events you attend. Your dress is the dress which will best suit a multitude of situations for you, the dress you can adjust the accessories on to change what it can be used for.

One of the most versatile dresses is a light weight wool dress, meaning tropical weight, nicely fitted for your body with a coat sleeve. This dress could be worn over a smaller skirt support for laboring purposes. Accessorize with a kerchief at the neckline, utilitarian cuffs and apron. If you have a work petticoat, you could pin your skirts up over it. For a look suitable for a woman of modest means going to town, add a crisp, yet simple collar and cuffs along with a Petersham ribbon belt with a mother of pearl buckle and a neck ribbon. Add a plaid wool shawl draped over your shoulders. For a well dressed look of a woman of moderate means, choose a delicate collar and cuffs with simply elegant embroidery for your personal linens. Accessorize with a Petersham ribbon belt closed with a gutta-percha, vulcanite, or cut steel buckle and a mass-marketed brooch at your neck. Select a nice shawl such as a bordered wool or European made Paisley, or opt for a delicate fichu. To achieve the look of a woman of comfortable means, replace your buckle a finer one possibly of gold or silver and your brooch with something like bog oak or other nicer piece.  Drape a silk or lace shawl over your shoulders; a delicate fichu will work as well.

A tropical wool dress may not suit everyone’s needs whether scenario based or personally based. This same premise can be applied to other dresses stretching their versatility. For some who need to be able to wash their dress on a regular basis or who are not ready to look into a tropical wool,  a cotton dress may be more appropriate.  For those who frequent warmer events or who have heat sensitivity, a sheer dress may be a better choice. In either case we can apply the concepts above with the tropical wool dress. A cotton dress made of a quality fabric in a period correct print (mind you quality can be found on a budget with smart shopping and wise saving) can be finished with personal linens in the same way. The accessories can be selected according to the situation as well. A sheer dress can also have its personal linens or accessories changed out to suit the occasion.

By changing out the personal linens and accessories on a single dress you really can go from one outfit to 3 or 4 outfits suitable for a wide variety of occasions.

Published in: on August 16, 2011 at 8:05 am  Leave a Comment  

Railroad travels – Arcade reflections

This past weekend was quite the roller coaster event for me. I wasn’t sure how to write about it as my perspective changed so often. So, instead of something inspiring or thematic, I’m just going to share some reflections. (warning I do get a bit venty and even catty)

This Arcade and Attica Railroad event was one of my favorite events from the very beginning of Civil War reenacting. The event primarily takes place on a series of train rides where visitors ride out through the country on a vintage train. Reenactors interact with the visitors who are quite the captive audience. Over the years this interaction has ranged from improvisational first person to scripted first person to third person instructional. Each version has its own benefits and draw-backs.

This year we had a good deal of trouble deciding if we were going because we have so many real-life challenges with still being unemployed since our move back to New York and not having our own home to really prep, plan and pack properly. My big motivator was taking my little sister to an event after so many years. But, truly money was tight, more like non-existent. After lots of figuring, vehicle swapping and back-n-forth, we were going. Thursday night was a quick pack and attempt at sleep… 3 hours for me since I have these pre-planning issues. Next came the sardine style packing of a van with three stops of having to pick up gear and a sister that had to go. Having never packed a van before, this was quite the experience in space. (I’m still not certain any vehicle will ever beat the little Shadow I used to have for size of vehicle to packing space.)

Despite each of the places we needed to stop on Friday and a detour, we still managed to make good time arriving at the park in day time and good weather. Shortly after we arrived some good friends arrived as well. The guys were able to get their camp layed out and start setting it up. Beth and I needed to wait for Rob to make the run from work with the tentage. It was nice because it gave us time to figure out what we were going to do and to have fun catching up. We were a bit silly, taking the chairs and laying out our camp plan with them. With the weather report calling for heavy rain and thunderstorms, this was the perfect opportunity to use a set up I’ve been wanting to do for years. We faced the two large tents in towards each other with the fly running in between. When Chrissy and Kim arrived they set their tents adjacent to ours in the same set up. With the children along for the weekend this was a very nice set-up. I was a little sad when I saw my old tent arrive with Chrissy. Seeing it was a quick flash-back to working on the uprights and ridge with Dad. My teary-eyedness over that should give you a good idea of my emotional and overly stressed state going into this weekend.

 I admit it. I am quite particular in how things are set up.  Setting up the interior of the tent was the beginning of my “I wish I had ___ from storage”. We were able to find and get out of storage one barn-board box. Besides that everything else was in carpet bags or the one band box for bonnets. For a weekend guaranteed to be wet, this was a challenge. (Check out my post last week on wet events to see some of those things I would normally want.) In hind-sight the one item I really would have wanted out of everything was one more box or trunk to work with. I far prefer to have clothing neatly packed in a trunk where it can be dry and layer in order of need. That is one box/trunk. The other, which we did have, was filled with a combination of food stuffs and toiletries. In a completely organized system these would of course be separate. This need for better organization started me thinking about the advertising box I used to used for food. Somehow it kept cool inside. It had wheels underneath that kept it just enough off the ground to help against ants. I can’t picture at all where that box is. I’m hoping it is buried somewhere in storage that I just haven’t seen it.

With the air turning cold and the lack of sleep the night before, I turn in rather early. Well, I should say I attempted to turn in early. Here is part of my roller coaster. I have the worst time trying to sleep sometimes. This time was just awful. I just couldn’t get to sleep. I tried counting. Didn’t work. I tried counting backwards. Didn’t work. I was still awake long after the park became quite. Ugh. Then came the morning bugle. I just pleaded with myself – please more sleep. But, that was mote. As soon as my bladder woke up, the rest of me had to wake up. Ugh. I’m certain I made little sense to anyone that morning.

Once dressed I felt a bit more myself, though an exhausted self. It was off to the train. Elizabeth and I had a lovely walk into town with Bevin and Chris Lynn. This morning walk was quite enjoyable as long as I was still in the shade. As soon as I hit the sun at the depot I could feel that odd feeling again. So, inside we went to head to the train. Train cars are full of shade.

How pleased was I when I saw the improvements at the train station and the new paint for the cars inside and out. The inside of the depot felt more open than the years before. I can’t pin-point what it was inside. It was just great. The cars looked beautiful. Outside they had a new coat of green. Inside, most had a new coat of a burgundy that was quite comfortable. Some of the cars even had carpet. I don’t know if the carpet is authentic. But, from a comfortability, esthetic and safety standpoint, it is great.

Now we come to the 2 hours that pressed my buttons. Really pressed my buttons. Ready for a vent and stump?

Please, please, please do not talk about something you know absolutely nothing about! If you don’t know, say you don’t know when asked. If you don’t know, don’t pretend you do know. For about 20 or 30 minutes I listened to a bunch of ladies at the other end of the car go on and on as if they had never heard the work carpet before, insinuating that carpet did not exist in the mid-19th century. There was absolutely no need to comment on the new carpet at all. If the carpet is an anachronism, simply do not mention it. If it is something appropriate to the scene but you don’t know about it, do not dwell on it. To make this inappropriate form of ‘interpretation’ worse, this was all done with some of the worst southern accents I’ve heard in a long time. This is another situation where if you can’t do it, don’t do it. You sound ridiculous. As the train got going this screechy attempt at an accent went through a variety of over-the-top story-lines trying to pull other reenactors and spectators in. This was the absolute low point of my whole experience this event as I tried so very hard to bite my tongue. Then came the “why are you in your underwear” approach. Have I ever mentioned how I hate this and think it is completely inappropriate? I do. I think it is a waste of time. There are so many, far better ways to bring the spectators in. I was extremely glad when that first train ride was over.

Now, lets move on.

 

The train runs were running longer than expected. Sadly, this meant missing our lunch plans. We needed to roll right into the second train. This was a much better experience as we traveled with Bevin and Chris. Okay, so we spent most of the time catching up. It was nice. At the turn-around point where the engine moves to the other end of the train, I was able to get some photos of my sister’s dress I made the week prior.

By the time the train got back to the depot after 3, we were starving for lunch. Warning, farby moment. We went next door to the Chinese restaurant and devoured some veggie lomein. It was so good. But, it came back to bite me. About half way back to camp as we walked in the heat and sun my stomach started yelling at me and my temp went right up. Now, I’m really not sure if this was the quick late eating or me. I’ve discovered this year that about the same time each afternoon at an event my body revolts with this odd heavy exhausted over-heating feeling. I really do not like it both for the feeling and the way it pulls me out of doing anything. I don’t know if it my weight gain or my undetermined health thing or just getting older. What ever it is, I don’t like it. Upon getting back to camp, off came everything down to my underpinnings as I layed down on the cot with an ice cold cloth trying to bring my temperature back down and get the stomach and head under control.

After a little laying down and some lovely ibuprofen and berry flavored tums, I found I was quite comfortable in my pink dress. I am so glad I stumble across that ridiculously cheap, $1/yd fabric that arrived surprisingly lovely. This dress is so light weight. Any lighter and it would have to be a sheer. This began a very enjoyable, relaxed evening with old friends. This was a must needed evening. While my sister played with the other kids on the park’s playground, we adults hung out and talked then all gathered around the fire well into the night.

While I still didn’t sleep deeply that night it was far more restful. That was until morning when a certain bungler decided to do more than the few notes of good morning, opting instead to go on, and on, and on, and on. Later, we shot said bugler.

Sunday was the rain day. It was a heavy rain with thunder. The tent arrangement proved itself useful. A bucket or large pot was needed between the flies to catch the center run-off. It filled rather quickly. With the rain, we opted to drive up to the depot.

This second day of train rides were nice despite my on coming migraine in the afternoon due to the combination of air pressure and me. (yes, that earlier low point out ranks a migraine on a train.) The cool air and moist air was so comfortable. It is much easier to add a layer in the form of a shawl or coat than to try to keep cool. The one downside is the mess caused by wet soot from the steam engine. I have soot in such odd places including half way up the inside of the back of my petticoats from going down the stairs. Luckily, the rain decided to move on by the later afternoon for us to pack up.

I think we all headed home very tired, very hungry and rather damp.

All in all – It was a great weekend even with the heat, rain, stomach aches, and migraine.

I did learn a few things this weekend. My red carpet bag does resist water nicely. Traveling hoods do make much more sense than bonnets, especially for longer trips where one may want to rest one’s head. White sheer drawn bonnets are a very bad choice as the soot will stain the bonnet with black spots. Over shoes are very important for the soot and mud (covering Bevin’s boots). The sleeve alterations suggested in many travel guides or advice guides are very comfortable. Sheers and dresses with trim will get damaged. (observation of dresses.) The suggestions for simple dresses with resistant fabric (those which dirt and soot can be dusted from) are very important.

Looking back on some of the photos, I’ve discovered something disturbing. Since making this dress for the Fort Stanton event this past year, I’ve altered my corset. It now sits a bit lower allowing my bust to sit lower. But now…. I have this baggy issue. I do believe with the aid of gravity I have reached the age where I need bust pads for some of my dresses. This will help smooth out the transition from my shoulder to my bust.

I do have some additional posts either from requests or inspiration over the weekend I will hopefully get to soon without forgetting about them.

Published in: on August 15, 2011 at 3:23 pm  Comments (4)  
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Why This is Good…. Looking at Clothing

I have the preliminary versions of “Why This is Good…. Looking at Clothing” together.

There are two files – A smaller printable version and a larger Power Point. Each are attached in as PDFs for easy viewing. (Though it looks like the notes for the PP are not visible.)

Why This is a Good Impression – Printable Version

Why This is Good Impression Visual Extended Power Point 

You will notice in the smaller file there are specific types of impressions I want to add when I have the right images. These will be added to the larger PP as well.

If you submitted an image you do not see, this doesn’t necessarily mean it wasn’t up to par. More likely I either haven’t done those slides yet or it duplicates something I’ve already covered. It does seem the more I cover, the more I still need to cover.

If you are in an image you did not submit, feel flattered because someone thought you had a really great impression. If you want it removed, let me know.

Published in: on August 10, 2011 at 11:32 am  Comments (1)  

The Weather Outside is…. Drenching

With this soak-you-to-the-bone weather leading up to and likely through the weekend event,  I am thinking about ways to keep dry. As I think through my list, I realize most of them won’t happen because the bits and pieces needed are buried deep in storage. That doesn’t mean I can’t share them with you.

  • Reenacting events inevitably mean walking, likely through grass or even mud. With wool boots, I find my rubber over-shoes a must. They slip right over my boots covering up to about my ankle. Extant rubber over-shoes were found when the Steamboat Arabia was uncovered. Those made by Tingley seem to be the closest.
  • Just incase, still pack extra stockings or socks for everybody.
  • A wool coat can help keep the wet off of most of you. A long paletot gives you great flexibility in the arms while buttoning up the front to keep you dry.
  • If you don’t have a coat, consider the largest, plain or plaid wool shawl you have. Wrapping this around you will help keep you dry.
  • We talk a lot about parasols in reenacting but not much about umbrellas. Use an umbrella, a period umbrella of course.  
  • Skip the fashion bonnet. Instead opt for a sunbonnet or for a hood. Water can cause a bonnet to soften, warp and even run.
  • If you carry a bag, make sure it is water-resistant. You may want to try a pocket instead. A pocket hidden under layers of skirts can usually stay dryer than a bag carried out in the open. If you must carry medicines or modern technology put them inside painted canvas bags or zip-lock bags just incase.
  • For larger bags, choose one with a heavy carpet and good closure. If it has a leather or painted canvas bottom, even better. Leave the bandbox at ‘home’.
  • You will be happier with your tent if you have sod-flaps and overlapping doors. Also put down a good water barrier under your flooring. I find a wool rug helps control the moisture better than other fibers.
  • Inside your tent let wool rule. Wool rugs on the ground help keep the area more comfortable. Put a wool blanket layer over your cot or ticking first. Be sure it drapes almost to the ground on each side. This keeps the moisture from coming up from underneath. Make you bed how you prefer. Then cover it all with a wool quilt or blanket. This will keep the moisture from getting in during the day. If you are sensitive to a moist pillow, wrap it with an extra wool shawl during the day to keep it dry.
  • Don’t hang your clothes. Put them in a trunk or box with a layer of wool covering them to help keep moisture down. You may consider a layer of wool on the bottom as well.
  • As you settle in for the evening, light a candle or two (safely). Whether the candles really do help cut the moisture or not, they help psychologically.

What do you do if you do get drenched?

  • If you can lay or drape your dress flat that will be best. Hanging it can cause it to stretch under the weight of being wet. If you have a trim that can run, be sure to lay the dress so the fabric does not lay back on itself particularly the trim.
  • If your bonnet get damp, set it up on a hat/bonnet stand. If you don’t have on make-d0 with something like the back of a chair. Do not lay it on its side because it will warp.
  • If your bonnet gets particularly wet, try to blot the trimmings so there is no running water. If your flowers are pinned in or on, consider removing them so they will not run on the bonnet itself.
  • If your boots get wet inside, stuff them with newsprint or fabric to absorb the water. Do Not put them near the fire as they can be damaged. (most warranties do not cover fire damage)
  • If your corset gets wet, layer it inside material to press out any excess moisture. Drape it over the back of a chair to dry.

 

Published in: on August 9, 2011 at 12:42 pm  Leave a Comment  
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I’ve been drooling

For the past few months I’ve been drooling over some great work, completely amazed by the delicate detail and craftmanship.

What has me so infatuated? The incredible patriotic cockades being made by the ladies of the West Side Soldiers Aide Society. I’ve long been impressed by the work this group does both in the 19th and 21st centuries. Their cockades just top that off.

These cockades began with Tom Arliskas’ research for a presentation at the March 2011 Ladies and Gentlemen of the 1860s conference in Harrisburg. Their in-depth research and fine work can be seen as they  follow the 150th anniversary cyle from the patriotic cockades supporting both the north and south during the first years of the War through to the 1864 election and then to mourning ribbons upon Lincoln’s death. Each ribbon is based on an original ribbon or period description with great attention to the details of construction. The digital reproductions on the ribbons are incredible.

Take a look at their wonderful work:

Wonder where you can get your own? Terry Klein Arliskas runs the Victorian Sentiments shop on Etsy. There you can see a variety of the cockades and ribbons she has to offer.  

I also highly suggest you take a look at the many wonderful things this group does by checking out their Facebook page.

Published in: on August 8, 2011 at 2:31 pm  Comments (2)  

An Event with Potential and Possiblities

Yesterday, Dan and I visited the Tinker Homestead in Henrietta, NY for their Civil War Days. This small event takes place on a site which combined a historic house museum including barns and garden with a nature park including woodland and marsh trails.

We both agreed this site is full of potential. Dan focused on the battlefield area which ran along the road for about 200 yards with a speckle of trees and a gentle roll of a hill to the east. In the center was a dry ditch running the full width of the field. It was just the right width and depth for men to hunker down in. On either side of the depression, a rail fence was run.  Along one side of the field is a walk way with spaced, younger shade trees perfect for visitors to observe from comfortably.

I focused more on the nooks and presentation spots along with the well layed-out walk ways and ample, well placed shade. The park had several wooden pavilions with seating. A couple had the traditional eating pavilion look while another was more rustic. These would be ideal for a variety of educational presentations through out the event. Each one is moderately to well shaded providing a comfortable area for visitors to sit. Upon first look each appears to be decent for a conversational presentation without the need for a sound system. There are several areas with nooks in the trees that would work nicely for civilian camping and interpretation.  The flow through the park provided by the walk ways around the historic site and the nature center is wonderful. The trails to different sections combine open space with wooded trails and a boardwalk over a marsh. I find this nice for moving people around a good sized space without creating that feel of needing to walk ‘all the way over there’. It also gives visitors and attendees to opportunity to stroll through shaded, cooler trails if the weekend happens to be a hot & sunny one.

As I said, the space is a good size. The parking is nice. There is a parking lot at the main part of the park at the historic house and nature center building. Directly across the street is a church with a large lot available for visitor parking as well.  On the other end of the park is another parking lot. This one is ideal for participant parking as it is connected via the boardwalk trail over the marsh and has its own pavilion which could be set aside for those who need a time-out or momentary escape. There is enough space to move some of the military camps to either the other end of the field on this little rise or to the small field/treed area just beyond the woods near the other parking lot. Of course this would just be if the attendance numbers increased significantly.

This event is in its 8th year. One would think in this time it would have grown to be a moderately sized event. But it hasn’t. We both think it is because there are just so many events in August within an hour drive of the area. There are just to many events for quality reenactors to choose from.

There are many things I liked about the site and the event. Upon entering the event area, you see the first of two gardens. You also see the food vendors which are local scouts offering pizza, water and ice cream all at affordable prizes. I love to see an event that gives this opportunity to the scouts. They used a tent/fly and the cutest wooden wagon for the food. There is a main trail headed east from the parking lot. As you enter the trail there was a raffle table. This was placed in a smart place for maximizing the number of people buying tickets. If this event were to grow, I would rather see this table next to the food vendors. To the right begins the three civilian set-ups,  two for the Christian Commission and one for a well done general civilian impression. These tents had great spots for talking with visitors and for comfort as the back of the tents could open underneath the shady pine trees. On the left as you pass the first garden, is the Union camp running along the back of the garden towards the raspberry garden. Almost directly across the trail is the pavilion they utilized for their dress and uniform discussions. We caught the tail end of the uniform discussion. It looked moderately well attended. There was one civilian who welcomed people down into the pavilion offering refreshments. This was well done. Next along the trail were two sutler tents. These are nice spots for the larger tents. I’ll skip over the types of sutlers. Moving beyond the honey bee house along the trail you find the Confederate camps. I noticed these were dressed to appear as though they were left just after a meal. Interesting. This brings us to the battle field and observations during the battle. About 300 people were in attendance for the skirmish which itself was light on numbers. It was great to see the number of children there. There were boy scout groups based the kids and leaders/parents in their recently acquired summer camp t-shirts. There were also several kids trying to dress for the event. In addition to the people who appeared to be comfortable along the tree line and wrapped around one corner heading up a little hill, there were a good number of cars stopped along the road for just the battle. After the end of the battle the kids were allowed on the field to collect papers. I don’t know if this was meant to be the scouts cleaning the field or a memento collection.

We did hear this event may change to June. This could help with attendee numbers. It could also give local schools to opportunity to attend with-in district. I do wonder what the grounds difference will be. I suspect the dry ditch won’t be dry in the early summer weeks. It may not be as hot or humid. We shall see.

Published in: on August 7, 2011 at 9:27 am  Leave a Comment  

August’s To-Do List

I find I am a bit more productive and less likely to wander off on tangents when I may my to-do list public. Last month went pretty well. Lets see for this month:

Green updates from Friday with one week until first August event; Blue updates from Tuesday before the event. Post Arcade additions.

Sewing

  • Little sister’s underpinnings – she needs petticoats and chemises– One petti done, borrowing chemises & cage, hoping to alter a second petti. Still need to get to that second petti to alter.
  • Little sister’s brown dress – plaid brown with red cotton shirting – gauged skirt, with a V neckline, gathered bodice and short sleeves – Mostly done, just needs closure and collar, maybe undersleeves for short sleeves. Done and redone, with collar
  • My 1830s travel dress – brown semi-sheer cotton which wants to be a wool – cross-over V neck, dropped late 30s sleeves – Cut, skirt together. Part of one side of the back top-stitched on & buried in a box.
  • Patriotic accessories for upcoming event
  •                    2 aprons
  •                    2 Cockades?
  •                     2 red belts – One done and one rosette. Two red belts with rosette done.
  •                    On train projects – possibly a handkerchief and/or patriotic shield needle-book. Several NBs planned materials lacking
  • Tweak one of my bonnet’s flowers
  • At least one rolled sewing and/or structure case for Etsy
  • At least one little purse for Etsy
  • At least one needle-book – Two made (shell and bellows) Five more made (3 shells, 1 shield, 1 bell)
  • Special project with 4 to 5 components – Measured and layed out
  • Take apart and redo straw bonnet that smooshed
  • Draft a new drawers pattern for hubby
  • Repair slippers
  • Replace buttons on hubby’s pants and both of my paletots (one just lost one, one needs all new)
  • Repair sleeve
  • Repair trim pulled of black paletot by train
  • Darn stockings
  • Make a pair of slippers for someones sore feet
  • Add to dress wish list – sacque/petti combo in tbd fabric (possibly in a real travel fabric)
  •  

Writing

  • Talk points for travel project – Sorta
  • Finish “Why this is Good” & put on blog – in progress
  • “moving into fall” blog post – all in my mind
  • “Keep it Simple, Keep it in Budget”

Locate or re-locate

  • Drawers that will fit little sister – skipped
  • Extra bedding from storage – skipped
  • The barn-board box – found
  • Rugs x2 – found
  • Drinking pottery – no luck
  • where is my food box? Where is my toiletries box?
Published in: on August 3, 2011 at 6:21 pm  Leave a Comment  

Little Sister Needs New Clothes

Since it has been 2 years since my little sister has been able to attend a history event with me, she is in need of new clothes. She will be 13 this next month. So, she’s in those between years. That can mean lots of options and lots of confusion.

Luckily, Catherine was kind enough to send back the clothes that don’t fit her anymore. Let me tell you my surprise when my little sister, tall & thin little sister, fit into the dress I wore in my late teens and early 20s. She could have a little more flesh on her torso and shoulders, but over-all it fits rather than falls off of her. So, the skirt will get some age appropriate tucks. The bodice will get some pinches in the seams. I think this skirt might get a sheer white bodice since she liked the one Marta sent from Kay’s site. I’m picturing something like this body/bodice or this bodice/body just with short sleeves. I like the sleeve treatment of the first. This does mean I need to either do an under-body or a half-high lining or a corset cover for her. Something like this but with a straight waist sorta would work, but is a bit off of what I have in mind as I’m pretty sure this is for evening wear. (While we are talking white sheers, this is one I would really like for myself.) The skirt/body combo will need a belt in black or red. I have a nice MOP buckle which will work. Or we can do a back closure. This dress and skirt/body combo will work nicely for ‘better’ wear.

She has two cotton shirtings coming thanks to mom’s ordering. (I know the first one is the right one; I’m not sure I have the right photo of the second one.)

There is enough of each for a dress thanks to the wider width. The first will be a dress. The second is intended to be a skirt  combined with a shirt. I’ll decide if that is happening when I see the quality of the cotton. (I’d rather see a sheer body with a silk or high-end cotton.) I haven’t decided on styles yet of either. I should really get on that. For the green, likely it will be a basic dress with tucks in the skirts up to lower calf or upper ankles. The sleeves will be comfortably short. The bodice might get to be a yoked bodice with a jewel neckline. That could be really cute while appeasing my desire to make a yoked bodice. (okay, I confess, I really wanted this fabric.)

 She also needs all new underpinnings with the exception of drawers which should fit. That hopefully will be easy. Now the cage… I have my fingers crossed on.

Oh, just remembered. I need to fix my other boots for her to wear. Hope it doesn’t rain that weekend since I’ll only have my wool boots.  

 

 

 

 

Published in: on July 25, 2011 at 5:23 pm  Leave a Comment  

Things I would like to make

There just isn’t enough time or organization to do every sewing project on our lists. Here is some of my sewing wish list.

This Bonnet Bag has been on the list for a while. I like my pasteboard box bags very much. I have a plan for this type of bag, I just have to get around to it.

I am rather intrigued by this style of flat, round bottom bags. It may be that bit of structure. The version I like even more has the flat bottom and structured sides. They look like they are built around pasteboard.

I don’t know if I will ever be up to this level of needlework. Okay, I highly doubt it. But, this little slipper shaped bag is just to cute not to make at some point.

There is something about these multi-sided shaped bags. There several different shapes found in Godey’s and Peterson’s for both lady’s bags and men’s tabacco bags. Some have these central embroidered designs on each side, some have full/all-over needlework while others have braidwork. I don’t know which I will do. The idea of the personalized embroidery is very apealling. But, so is doing some braid work.

I’m determined to remake a broken fan I have (somewhere) into a Jenny Lind fan like one like this or this. While I’m at it, it would be nice to replace my feather fan that died. Granted, this one is a bit Wow. I wasn’t aware making a fan from painted pasteboard was an option. Then I saw this one. Tempting. 

A pasteboard box or bandbox from scratch

A ribbon cockade – There are some amazing, I should say AMAZING, reproductions out there. I just want to take a try at one or two.

I’m bound to find a way to make my own thread winders out of recyled MOP, bone or such. I just have to find the right material and the dremel tool (hopefully it still works after getting wet during the move.)

I will learn to make my own gloves for my challenging to fit hands.

After finding it uncomfortable to sit the whole day in a mid-century chair sewing, I will make a period cushion for sitting.

This apron.

Published in: on July 23, 2011 at 9:05 pm  Comments (1)  
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