[Ansteorra] costuming bit

[Genie Barrett]

At 01:07 PM 9/22/2006, you wrote:
>   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

Keep up posted.  This sounds like a very interesting idea.  I've 
recently done something similar.  I cut all the embroidery off of one 
dress and put on another that is far closer to appropriate.

Maggie MacPherson