[Ansteorra] costuming bit

[nweders at mail.utexas.edu]

  I just read something from a Civil War reenactment I found of interest 
and thought to pass on.  She states that modern sewers are spoiled because 
we just go out and buy fabric - and just cut the pieces out without regard 
to thrift.  Very often (at least in 1860-65) people pieced small areas to 
extend their fabric very often  the sleeves and gores or places no one 
would see them much.  they didn't have the luxury of buying too much to 
match plaids and designs.  Hems were actually very small with different 
fabric backing them so they didn't get as dirty nd it wasn't a waste.  Trim 
was often on the bodice only because it was a show of extravangance to put 
it on the skirt since the skirt would be taken up, get dirty easier and such.

We tend to forget that clothing was worn until it fell apart or cut down 
for someone smaller, used for facing, binding or linings.  In period 
clothing or fabric was given for part of wages or service.  The item could 
be sold or I imagine cut down to fit.  It would be fun if children were 
given clothing made from older bigger tunics and such.  Someone be given a 
article of clothing as largess (a pair of embroidered sleeves or an old 
costume of beautiful fabric.  I'm seriously thinking about ripping up old 
costumes and remaking them into something to se if I can do it.

Clare