Beth's Bobbins

Huzzah for Liz (and us all) The Sewing Academy is back.

Finished my 2025 Christmas presents for real, this time, back in February (though apparently I never actually published this post), with a pair of linen sleeve protectors.

Something that's aged well over 250 years: French brocade gown, c.1775, in the MET.

Managed to finish one project in April/May: a set of infant dresses for the newest Fort volunteers.

Purple silk dress, c.1840, from The Met.

Corset Bodice, c.1800-1825, Snowshill Collection accessed through UK National Trust.

I love these: Embroidered Wool Slippers, c.1855-1865, from Historic New England.

With the caveat that lots of projects can require more or less fabric, here's the "rule of thumb" measures that I use when I find an interesting fabric for future use.

This fabric has been in my stash for a while, waiting to replace my blue mid-19th-century wrapper.

A straight-forward pinner apron, for our favorite cook.

Cotton Wrapper, c.1840s, Kent State University Museum.

Just a few small maintenance projects this month.

Last of the Christmas presents have found their way home.

Camera deleted the pre-party picture, alas.

Based on the pattern given in The Comprehensive Knitting Book (1849).

For the 10th Day of Christmas, some references for a particular variety of warm garment, generally called a sontag in reenacting circles.

Looking ahead to my sewing goals for 2026, it's time to start on a few 'someday' projects in eras I haven't often done.

I do enjoy the difference that a century can make in clothing styles.

It's time to see how I did this year.

Another old project which never got posted; I made this corset for wearing with my linen traveling suit for an event in June 2023.

Puffed undersleeves.

December was pretty busy with Christmas living history events and making presents, but I found time for some mending tasks which came up.

Computer troubles have stymied my usual 'blog all 12 days of Christmas' plan, but I did find a fun new resource to share: The Royal School of Needlework's online Stitch Bank.

The Christmas Tree, in The Children's Treasure, December 1, 1873.

Tidying up the blog before the year ends, and realized I never photographed my final batch of pickles last August.

The last part of my new winter 1850s ensemble was a pair of side-lacing gaiter to match my new basque outfit with its knit under-sleeves.