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Embroidery

A Regency bonnet veil

Earlier this summer I received an inquiry about making a Regency bonnet veil, which was exciting because I hadn’t considered that application for my embroidery designs. The inspiration example showed a length of wide antique lace, very delicate and flowing. Of course, embroidery and lace are different, but good lace in wide widths can be difficult
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The 10 foot Fichu

I make samples of all my products before I put them up for sale, because I want you to see real examples, not just a rendered drawing of what it might look like. For something like a border, I simply stitch out enough repeats to give a good impression of how it would look on a gown.
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Costume College 2015

I look forward to Costume College every year, because not only do I learn a ton from other talented costumers, I get to reconnect with friends from around the world. Previous years have planted the seeds for some of the collaborations that blossomed this year, and I value the connections I’ve made with other female business
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Camisole Eyelet Tutorial

The 1910 Camisole with Bows is almost ready for release! As I was working through a sample based on the Wearing History 1910’s Camisole or Corset Cover, I found one tricky bit that’s easier explained in pictures, so I wanted to put together a camisole eyelet tutorial for you. This is a great technique for any
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Collaborations

I’ve met so many wonderful people in the costuming community over the years, and this spring and summer I’ve been lucky enough for several of those connections to turn into collaborations. Since one has already launched and another is very close, it’s high time I told you a little more about them. After a trip
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Giveaway – “Fashion from the Frame”

I recently stumbled across mention of an exhibit at the Bavarian National Museum titled “Mode aus dem Rahmen,” or Fashion from the Frame, focusing on “precious embroidered clothing of the late 18th century.”  Naturally, I wanted to learn more – and see some pictures! I did find the museum website, as well as a blog post
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18th Century Button – Free Download for Subscribers

Remember the 18th century button I’ve been working on? After a bit more tweaking, I’m finally happy with how it is looking.  What do you think? This 18th century button is embroidered with silk thread on creamy silk satin, then wrapped around a wooden button mould from Burnley and Trowbridge.  The finished button is only
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Ongoing Projects – April 2015

There is so much going on in the studio right now, but I don’t feel like I have very much to show for it. Here are a few of the things keeping me busy. For one, I’m working through a massive studio de-stashing.  I’m moving this summer into a smaller space, and I’m finally admitting I’m
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Matching Embroidery Borders, and more

One of the first questions I have when starting a design is what is the best way to get it to match up as flawlessly and as easily as possible. Some are pretty straightforward, while others take creativity.  I also hear a lot of comments that people are nervous about matching embroidery borders correctly, so I
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1823 Eyelet Border

When browsing through possible design ideas, this border from the June 1823 edition of Ackermann’s Repository of Arts, Literature, Commerce, Manufactures, Fashions and Politics caught my eye because it is reminiscent of many of the scalloped borders I keep pinning to Pinterest for inspiration. For example, this hem of this gown from the Kent State Museum
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