11 6 / 2012
I can finally put the sewing machine and needle down! (Blurry photos are blurry. ;A; )
Here is my finished gown based on Drea Leed’s research of the Flemish workingwoman’s attire. I was unable to complete partlet and caul in time for our trip to the Renaissance Festival yesterday (though I did finish the apron, even if I didn’t wear it), but I would like to have them finished sometime this summer.
I also didn’t get any photos of myself in the dress since my camera wouldn’t fit in my boob pocket (small boobs equate to about the same amount of pocket space as short-shorts), so here’s the whole thing laid out for now, and I will get one properly taken later. The lace is supposed to zig-zag down the torso, but you get the idea. The smock, kirtle and gown are my second, third and fourth finished sewing projects, respectively. Taking that into consideration, I’m quite proud of how they turned out. I WANT TO MAKE MORE NOW. :| Also, the sheer amount of hand-stitching on these was amazing, but surprisingly fun and relaxing.
We had a great time at the Ren Fest this year, and it was our second time going just the two of us. We brought some cash with us, and spent it all on TASTY THINGS. Aside from actual festival food, I picked up some more tea from the Spice Traders, from whom I purchased some lovely teas I fell in love with last year, as well as some pickled garlic (and olives stuffed with said garlic) upon recommendation from a Twitter follower. :)
This year’s teas are Vanilla black tea and a green/black blend they call Blood Berry. The tin of Vanilla was the last one they had, and when they saw the way I steepled my fingers when I arrived at the booth, they said they wanted to see such a good tea go to a good home. The Blood Berry has tons of fruits in it and brews a blood-red tea, but apparently they sell more of it as a rum flavoring than for tea. Before you ask, hell yes we’re gonna try it.
It was a very fun and relaxing day in my new dress, and I hope we get to go again before the summer’s over. :D
