Introducing the 1500s...

I'm going back in time, in more ways than one.

When I lived in England, I was a tudor at Kentwell for a couple of years. When you enter the manor during the Great Annual Tudor Recreation, you go through a 'time tunnel' as you move from the 21st to 16th century - hence the name of the blog. I could go on and on about how awesome an experience it is, and what it's like to live such a peaceful existence, immersed in living history. But I'll spare you.
I've always loved the 1500s - the Tudor and Elizabethan periods absolutely fascinate me, and I love to learn about them, so being able to dress and live authentically is just incredible.
 

In the move over to this part of the world, my costume disappeared into the abyss - along with several other things. It's a bit like the socks in your washing machine, only on a slightly grander scale. So, with the possibility in the very near future of returning to Kentwell, I'm embarking on making a new one. 

A few disclaimers - I am a novice at sewing. I've hashed together a few things - even a quilt! - but to be brutally honest with myself they only required a bit of effort and a running stitch. I have never made clothes of any kind, except for a jumper I once upcycled into a dress for my little one. I didn't even make my previous costume - my home ec teacher did that! 

I've come across a couple of blogs re sewing costumes, and found them immensely helpful, so I thought I would do the same. Even if it serves only as a reference point for myself! 

This is me and my fantastic Aunt at Kentwell about 10 years ago. We were sotlers on the front sward (ie. cooks on the lawn), and spent our mornings making pottage, and afternoons cleaning the big pots! Pottage is basically vegetable stew - it is completely delicious, but boy it doesn't half give you wind after a day or two!!

I was an archer the following year, and intend to return as one in the future. I got a beautiful longbow handmade for me by Ron Palmer before he passed away a few years ago, and have recently started shooting again. I am in my element when I'm shooting! I absolutely love it. 

For my costume, I am making :

- shifts x2 (cleanliness is next to Godliness, and it's good to have one spare to wash)

- bodied petticote (sleeveless)

- short sleeved kirtle 

- detachable foresleeves

- Partlet

- short jacket

- linen nether hose

- coif and hat

- shoes (If I can't get borrow some I will have to make them, as they're rather expensive to buy)

- apron(s)

So, here goes...!