German, ca. 1530s (Cranach) - 2014

This was my first ambitious renaissance costume, which I based on 'Emilie of Saxony' by Lucas Cranach the Elder, ca. 1530. I created the patterns entirely myself, both draping and drafting for different parts. The dress itself was sewn by both hand and machine, and the accessories are entirely hand sewn. It is made to be worn over my go-to corset and petticoats, and spiral-laces down the back over a modesty panel.

The dress is made from a heavy linen bedspread acquired at a thrift store, and all of the other materials were also from either thrift stores or yard sales. The materials for the whole outfit cost me less than $30, and almost nothing was wasted.

Henrician Tudor, ca. 1530-40s - 2015

I made this full Tudor 'French Gown' using the patterns and instructions in The Tudor Tailor, which I altered and adjusted to fit correctly on me. The dress and other pieces are extensively hand sewn, and I did all of the Blackwork embroidery and other embellishments by hand.

Consisting of 10 separate pieces, the materials include 3.5oz linen, cotton velveteen, and second-hand sheets and brocade curtains. The ensemble was made over the course of 6 months, and weighs around 20lbs in total.

Elizabethan Cloak, ca. 1570s - 2016

A gift for a friend, this the Elizabethan 'riding' or 'short' cloak was designed and draped after historical examples. The brocades were all flat-lined and pad stitched to add weight and drape before being sewn together and lined. I did all of the embellishments by hand, including the soutache knotwork.

All of the design elements were symbolic for the recipient, including the appliquéd swords and the 8 bars of stylized music staff along the outer edge of the collar.