The Story of a Seamstress

Baking a Pie.....or Five

2012-01-12T17:33:00.001-06:00

When I decide to bake pies it always goes something like this:

Oh, we have a pumpkin left. I think I'll make a pie.

Hmm. Will one pie be enough? Better make two.

Dear me...just to be safe, I should make two recipes of dough.

oops......now instead of simply whipping up a couple of pies, I now have 5 crusts to fill.

Yes, that is exactly how it went one afternoon this week. I always overestimate, so ended up with many piepans, and without an exact idea of what to put in them. I only had enough pumpkin puree for two pies, so I finally decided to do one mock mincemeat (that was easy, as I had some mincemeat all ready that we had canned a couple of years ago...) and then (my favorite) custard pies. Yum!

There is just something so fun about pie-making. I love to make them as pretty as possible, and experiment with decorating the tops in various ways. (And you must wear a checkered apron. That makes everything better.:)

Piecrust

(makes 2)

Mix-

2 1/2 c. flour

1/2 t. salt

Cut in 3/4 c. shortening

Add - 7-8 Tb. cold water

Mix until it just all comes together. Don't overwork.

Take half the dough and roll out thin with a rolling pin. Use a thin spatula to carefully raise the dough off the table and flip it over on to the pie-pan. Press gently down into the pan. Trim the edges with a butter knife and then crimp with your thumb and first two fingers. (at least that is what I do! :)

For the shortening, I prefer to use some type of oil. I've been using cottonseed oil, but this time we were out and I used a mild olive oil, and it was wonderful! Easiest, smoothest, stretchiest pie dough I've ever worked with. And since it was so mild, there wasn't a strong taste. So, I think I may be switching to olive oil permantenly...

Mock Mincemeat Pie

1 1/2 c. raisins

4 Granny Smith apples, peeled cored and sliced

1 Tb. orange zest

1/3 c. orange juice

1/2 c. apple cider

3/4 c. white sugar

1/2 t. cinnamon

1/2 t. cloves

2 soda crackers, finely crushed

Preheat oven to 425. Stir the raisins, apples, orange zest, orange juice, and apple cider together in a pan. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until apples are very soft, about 20 minutes. Stir in the sugar, spices, and crackers until well blended. Refrigerate until ready to use, or pour into pie crust. Bake for 15 minutes in preheated oven, then reduce oven temp to 350 and bake until top is golden brown, about 30 minutes more.

For mincemeat, I think you are really supposed to do a complete top crust, but...

I love using mini cookie cutters for pie tops!

The other day I made a blackberry pie and used a star shaped cookie cutter for the top - it looked quite patriotic and pretty.

This particular leaf shaped cutter came from the cute Fall Leaves set.

Fresh Pumpkin Pie

I learned a valuable lesson while chopping up pumpkins. (after a cut and bleeding finger...)

DON'T try to peel the pumpkin fresh. Instead, half, clean, and cube the pumpkin with the peel on, boil the cubes until soft, and after they are cooled and drained, THEN peel and puree them.

So. Much. Easier. (and safer) Wish I had been doing that all these years. Sometimes I feel really dumb. *ahem* Anyway. Now I know.

2 cups fresh pumpkin puree

3 eggs, beaten

1 t. cinnamon

1/2 t. cloves

1/2 t. ginger

1/4 t. nutmeg

2 t. vanilla

salt

1/3 c. milk

1/2 c. honey (or 3/4 c. sugar)

Mix all together and pour in uncooked pie shell. Bake at 350 until center is firm.

Coconut Custard Pie

4 eggs, beaten

2/3 c. sugar

1/2 t. salt

2 c. milk

1 t. vanilla

3/4 c. shredded coconut

Mix and pour into uncooked crust. Bake at 350 until firm and and a knife inserted into the middle comes out clean.

This particular coconut variation of custard, I just tried for the first time. It was excellent! The recipe came from a great little recipe book called 'The Lost Art of Pie Making".

It was a nice treat for the boys when they came home from work to see all the pretty pies just waiting for supper to be over! (but they didn't last long....)

What is your favorite type of pie? Any pie-making secrets you'd like to share?

Bronze Silk Regency Weskit

2012-01-11T12:57:00.001-06:00

I love these things! Little fitted weskits (vests) -such a perfect way to dress up the lovely, simplistic Regency dresses. For day or evening wear.

This particular one is made froma beautiful, shimmery bronze colored silk.

Ready to ship, and now available in the shop!

Laces up the front with hand-sewn thread eyelets and narrow brown satin ribbon.

The edges are bound with matching silk.

I think these look especially nice against white dresses, and I can imagine so many lovely color combinations, from pastels to jewel tones! More weskits are definately on my to-do list. :) So fun!

Giveaway of the e-book "The Jeweler's Apprentice"

2012-01-09T13:45:00.000-06:00

Check out the new blog of one of my dear friends, Elizabeth! (You may remember she and her sister where one of the winners in the last Historical Costume Inspiration Festival)

Well, she has a giveaway running for her new e-book called 'The Jeweler's Apprentice', now available on Amazon. It sounds very intriguing!!

The giveaway is only running for another week, so don't waste time! :)

Pen and Ink Musings

2012-01-03T23:07:00.000-06:00

There is something indescribably magical about about the hand-written word. Have you ever been in an antique store, and opened up an old book or postcard, and thrilled at seeing a hand penned script scrawling across the page, perhaps declaring to whom the book once belonged, or recalling a long-forgotten event? It's like having a little glimpse into someone's life, seeing each unique hand.

I'm not against modern communication. In fact, I'm very thankful for it! I love being able to call, text, and email friends and family at any time, and hear back from them almost instantly. That is a great blessing, if used properly. But - I don't want to loose sight of hand-written communication, records, and drawings, etc. I think all these things are so beautiful and have been neclected for far to long. They are due for a revival.

So, I'll share with you a few of my inspirations and goals in this area, and some of the things you can do to bring back the art of pen and ink.

Write a letter.

Whether it's a handmade birthday card, a newsy catch-up letter from a friend, or even a long awaited love-letter, there's always a special "something" about recieving a letter in the mail.

Emails and texts are so...casual, so ordinary. Years after you have recieved a certain email, do you go back and pour over it, sigh over the wonderful typefaces? Um....no. Not really. Emails are read, they are useful, then they are forgotten. Chances are you won't even have your electronic messages years from now, as they will have probably been deleted...or lost in a computer crash.

Old-fashioned letters are a different thing. They can be kept, and treasured, taken out of their box and re-read years from now and not loose any of their charm. And, yes, I do keep a box where I store all the letters I wish to keep.

I have an especial fascination with trying to write letters the old-fashioned way. Unlined paper, homemade envelopes, writing in my fanciest script - perhaps even using pen and ink and a wax seal.

Here are a few fun and helpful articles on the subject of letters from the olden days....

Guidelines for writing 19th C. Letters

How to Post a Letter 19th C. Style

Civil War Love Letters

Journal.

It has long been my goal to keep a journal regularly. Oh, I do have many journals I have filled over the years, but I have not been good about writing in it every day. Something I want to change.

I always take inspiration from reading diarys and accounts from my favorite eras (one of the best is 'Sarah Morgan, the Civil War Diary of a Southern Woman') and thinking how thankful I am that they took the time to write down a day-to-day record of the things happening in their lives. Even the most 'mundane' details are extremely interesting to me (what they were wearing, cooking, what was inside the shop in town....etc.) as a student of history. That's how I try to think about my own journaling. Even if nothing particularly 'epic' is happening, small details and everyday happening are just as important - or perhaps more so because it is these little details that are often forgotten as years blur our memories. And though I don't plan on anyone else reading my journals, it's a neat journey to the past for me to go back and read some of my old volumes, I am always surprised at how many little things I would have forgotten, had it not been for writing it down at the time!

I've always wanted to try other types of journaling too - for instance an inspiration/ephemera/sewing scrapbook/diary. This could include fabric and notions swatches fo future projects, inspirational magazine or book clippings, quotes and sketches. This would also be a fun way to experiment with collages and color combinations, either for future artwork, interior designs, or sewing projects!

Draw.

I have an intense need to draw, and I often feel like I fail, because I push that desire to the back of my mind, 'just until I get this one job done'......Mainly the only type of artwork I do now is dress sketches for upcoming projects.

One of my main goals this year is to paint, draw, and sketch more and varied subjects.

Read.

To really write well, you need to have a good vocabulary. The best way to learn? Read - read challenging books. Books of information, books of fiction, books of history. Books that were written well before our present century.

(Sir Walter Scott, Jane Austen, and Charles Dickens are always a good place to start for the fiction side!)

I could never stand the though of a kindle or electronic book. I realize that they can be useful...and I know they have a place. But I have adamantly refused to have one. Nothing could ever replace the feel and experience of opening a book for the first time (or the fiftieth....:), flipping through the pages, and discovering the adventure anew.

Practice.

Don't like your cursive hand? Think your artwork skills could be improved? Signature is sloppy? Don't have enough discipline to actually finish that long read? (and I'm talking to myself, here) There is only one way to get better - practice, practice, practice. If you become confident with your pen (or pencils, or paintbrush....) all of this will be so much easier and fun!

I'd love to hear your thoughts on old-fashioned paper arts, journaling, penmanship, reading and art. Any tips, ideas, or reccomendations?

Update on the Historical Costume Inspiration Festival 2012...

2011-12-26T10:01:00.001-06:00

Hi all! I hope everyone had a lovely Christmas!

I feel like my life has been turned upside down, but blessed beyond belief since I last wrote here! And I can't believe it's already after Christmas!

But, I have some rather sad news to relate. Due to being urgently called to work out of town for a couple of weeks (without internet access probably), I've decided that I will have to delay the 2012 Historical Costume Inspiration Festival, as I just won't have time this month to properly organize and care for such an event. However, don't stop planning and working on your projects, I plan to reschedule soon, and will let everyone know when!

Have a blessed New Year!

--Atlanta

Now Available - Design Your Own Edwardian Dress Kit!

2011-12-16T09:30:00.000-06:00

At long last! The latest installment in the 'Design Your Own Dress' Series is here!

Design Your Own Edwardian Dress

A beautiful kit that historical costume enthusiasts and girls of all ages will enjoy! Pages of designs ready to trace and color to create your own unique drawn ensembles!

Using tracing paper to take the drawing step by step, start with the model attired in proper Edwardian undergarments, then add a skirt, bodice, trimmings, hat, an apron, and much, much more! The possiblities for creativity are endless. Mix, match and trace to create thousands of unique ensembles, all historically correct for the era of Anne of Green Gables!

Included in the kit:

-6 glossy cardstock sheets with black and white drawings, featuring a Model, Hairstyles, Skirts, Bodice Options, Fabric Designs, Hats, Trimmings, Jewelry, Accessories, Jackets, and more!

- 12 sheets of tracing paper

- 1 sheet of historical notes, descriptions, and instructions

All pages professionally printed on high quality paper.

Comes packaged in a handy clear plastic zipper pouch.

Kit enables you to design your own turn-of-the-century fashion drawings - perfect for young artists, historical fashion lovers, or seamstresses who want to visualize their designs!

Below are just a few of the endless dress designs possible!

I have to say, this kit is my favorite of the series so far! I love all the eccentric, lovely hats from the turn of the century, and the classic flowing lines of the dresses! (and who could forget the great hairstyles and 'puffed sleeves' of which Anne was so fond! :)

If you are still Christmas shopping for the perfect gift for a friend or sister who is a historical costume lover, seamstress, or artist, there is still time for holiday shipping to US addresses!

Please take a look and let me know what you think of the latest Dress Designer kit!

A Victorian Christmas Ballgown

2011-12-12T09:00:00.000-06:00

A burgundy red 1850s-60s silk taffeta ball gown, destined to be worn to a Dickens Christmas ball!

The latest request from an Etsy client. (lucky me!! this was a fun project!)

There was no specific inspiration for the dress, but a simple, unadorned style was chosen, the only ornamentation being the creamy lace netting on the short, open sleeves.

Neckline finished with piping.

The silk is actually a bright red/black shot silk, which gives it such a striking shimmer in different lights!

Hand-sewn eyelets and matching ribbon lacing up the back.

Makes me rather long for a Christmas dance myself! :)

If you are interested in having a custom silk ball gown made,

you may want to take a look at my new Etsy listing....

Special $20 off eShakti Coupon for my Readers!!

2011-12-07T11:26:00.000-06:00

How exciting! eShakti has generously offered a coupon code created especially for my blog readers!

When purchasing an item from eShakti, use the promo code

SOS0811

To recieve $20 off your order!

Valid till 31st December, 2011

Start shopping for Formals, Day Dresses, Skirts, Jackets, Scarves, Blouses and more!

Note: The discount code is not case sensitive. Only one gift certificate can be used per order. The code can be used any number of times until the validity period. This discount code is not applicable on our Overstock category. This cannot be clubbed with any other offer / discount that may be active during this period.

The Vintage Hat Shop

2011-12-07T10:36:00.000-06:00

Introducing...

--- The Vintage Hat Shop ---

A lovely Etsy shop specializing in affordable, wearable vintage hats from 1900-1980. I invite you to go explore the shop, there are some real gems - perfect for wearing with the vintage outfits we all love so much!

I have to admit that it is partly the fault of seeing all these great vintage uniques, that I have visions of 30s, 40s, and 50s dresses running through my head again.....:)

Men's Fedora

Shop owner, Cindy, is very friendly and helpful! I suspect if you have any vintage hat dilemmas, she would be able to help!

Cindy gives some insight into her life and hat business:

"Although I live on a Michigan centennial farm near Lake Michigan, I have been in contact with hat lovers all over the world. I have sold over 500 hats to folks in 22 different countries. (yes, I keep a list!). My hats have been worn at vintage weddings, Ladies Day at Astor, professional photography shoots, historical reenactments and by all sorts of fashion conscious ladies."

1960s Pastel Blue Toque

"Two hats are dear to my heart. The first is my mother’s wedding hat. A simple open weave pillbox from World War II Era. That one is a treasure to me and I love to have it sitting next to the wedding picture. Thanks, Mom. The other hat that I love is the very first one that I purchased. Many years ago I saw the brown velvet 1910s Pamela with a poof of downy feathers. Somehow I knew I had to own that hat! Both of the favored hats are tucked away in a special hat box."

1930s Flocked Roses Boater Hat

"When I first started selling on Etsy I knew that I wanted to zero in on just one area. Hats just seemed the perfect fit for me. No two are alike, and hat collectors and hat lovers just seem to be interesting people! I have had wonderful interaction with both hat buyers and hat sellers. The people that are interested in hats seem to be stylish and classy."

1950s Bridal Hat

"And then there is the thrill of the hunt. I love finding unique and unusual hats. It is always fun to return to familiar haunts and to constantly be seeking out new sources. My hat collector customers are always looking for special hats to match vintage outfits. I couldn’t ask for a job that is more perfect for me!"

1960s Lime Green Pillbox 1940s Forward Tilt

1960s Pink Fascinator 1960s Green Bowler Hat

These are just a sampling of the great hats in The Vintage Hat Shop! Head on over and take a look for yourself! I've got my eye on several jaunty 40s styles. They would be the finishing touch to a new swing dress I am planning!

Look for the Vintage Hat Shop button on my blog sidebar for a direct link to the Etsy store.

Now, happy shopping! I'd love to hear which hats are your favorites, and the outfits you envision to create around them!

Vintage Cowgirl Photoshoot + eShakti Dress Review

2011-12-06T10:38:00.000-06:00

Have you heard of eShakti? It is an online ready made and custom dress shop that offers classy styles and super fast service. Well, I recently recieved my own eShakti creation!

After much considering (there are so many lovely frocks to choose from!) I chose the

Castles in the Air Dress!

The sleeves, skirt and neckline were all available to customize in style and length.

The first thing that grabbed my attention was the unique and fun printed cotton fabirc. Orange and red fairytale castles amid scattered roses! So perfectly adorable.

I had the dress custom fit. On eShakti, you can either choose from the full range of ready made sizes, or you can give them your measurments through their easy measurements chart, and your dress with be custom made for you! I found it very successful, the fit of the dress is excellent.

When I was first envisioning the dress, I was thinking to do retro 40s-50s theme with heels, but when the dress actually arrived, I happened to be wearing my cowboy boots (I am, most days....:) and that got me thinking that the style would also lend itself well to a vintage western/praire look. (or perhaps it's because I've been watching too many Roy Rogers movies lately.....)

At any rate, I can see this dress being extremely versatile and comfortable for a myriad of different occasions, whether it's picking cucumbers in the garden or attending an evening swing dance!

LOVE the details. Fitted, comfy smocking at the waist and ruffled, puffed sleeves. Neckline is high in back, dipping to a narrow V in front accented with two fabric buttons and loops.

Pockets! Nothing is handier than a dress with nice big pockets!

The eShakti Custom label

Possibly my favorite thing about the dress - a lovely full skirt with soft lines that fall just right.

Go and take a look at all the dresses eShakti has to offer - I am very impressed with the selection and style.

One of the things I like best - the dresses stay up-to-date with fashion trends, but remain classy. And since you can customize skirt lengths, there shall be no more complaining about not being able to find dresses with skirts that are long enough! :)

From 50s swing dresses, to bridesmaids, formals, day dresses and casual skirts, eShakti seems to have it all! Take a look and tell me which pieces are your favorites! Here are a few of mine...

A big thanks to eShakti for the great dress and fabulous service!

Holiday Sales from Ness

2011-12-01T07:50:00.001-06:00

I was thrilled to see the new crockery sets by Ness! Isn't this teacup perfection?

Butter bells are so old fashioned and fun!

Half-pint jug! Hot chocolate, anyone?

Check out the Shoe sale on all Ness styles!

Big discount on the Bag of the week!

So, is there anything from Ness on your wish list??

Must Watch Video - "180"

2011-11-30T13:41:00.001-06:00

I know many of you have probably already heard of or seen the "180" mini documentary. I've been hearing about it for weeks - but never had bothered to actually look into it. Well, today I watched it.

It is horrifying and terrible, and (in some of the endings) wonderful. I'm SO glad I watched it, and I think you should too. I'd love to hear what you think after watching in the comments section!

Mid-Victorian Blue Silk Ballgown

2011-11-17T08:30:00.000-06:00

Pictures of the latest custom order for an Etsy client, for a lovely lady from merry England who is going to be attending a Victorian Christmas ball!

We had to do a bit of searching to find just the right shade of blue silk taffeta. This was a blue/white shot silk, found on Ebay, actually! But - there were only 5 yards of it, so that caused a bit of a panic for me. 5 yards is *enough* for a ball gown, but it leaves absolutely no room for error, which is a bit terrifying! Especially when working with silk taffeta! But, thankfully, no tragic cutting error occured...

Her inspiration pictures, two cornflower-blue silk ballgowns, one with cream lace.

From the films 'North and South', and 'Our Mutual Friend'.

Detail of the bodice ruching and the cream English netting lace.

Eyelets!

Target years were late1850s-early1860s

Back lacing. (didn't fit my dress form exactly right...but you get the idea.:)

Shown with a flower bouquet pinned at the center front. There are so many colors that could be used to trim this dress, pink, red, white, lavendar, plum.....and they would all look scrumptious. I love being able to change up the trims for a whole new look!

The dress is now on it's way across the ocean, leaving me rather wishing I had an exuse to make a silk ballgown for myself.....*sigh*.

...someday I shall!

Three New Regency Dresses

2011-11-15T08:30:00.000-06:00

Three ready to ship historical Regency dresses now in the shop!

Navy blue sheer cotton voile dress, size 6.

Drawstring gathered bodice, with one decorative tuck around the hem.

I love dark-colored sheers, they are so elegant!

This dress was inspired by the navy blue sheer dresses worn by Elinor and Marianne in the Ang Lee 'Sense and Sensibility' film.

A fun orange plaid cotton apron-front dress, with a sweetheart neckline detail, size 14-16.

I love the summery feel of this dress, I think it would be perfect with a lovely straw bonnet and a light shawl, at a Jane Austen themed picnic perhaps?

Spring-green cotton lawn dress in a lightly gathered bodice style, and half sleeves. Both skirt and sleeves are decorated with two rows of tucks!

Size 10-12

I love tucks!

More Regency dresses will be coming soon to Bonny Blue Arts on Etsy!

Historical Dream Wardrobe

2011-11-14T08:30:00.000-06:00

...or "What I Would Have Worn"....

I have been gleaning a lot of inspiration from my Pinterest files lately. There are just so many images of breathtaking original historical garments floating around in cyberspace - it's wonderful to just look and dream! Sometimes certain items will jump out at me as something that I *know* would have aboslutely been in "my" wardrobe if I had lived in a certain time period of the past.....(don't you ever get that feeling??) So, these are the items I have laid claim to, organized by era. Enjoy!

18th Century...

Perfectly charming jacket, sash, and scarf ensemble

My favorite colors - and with bows!

Regency...

1790s, rose silk day dress

1810, Ball gown in bright yellow? - Yes.

1820, perfect walking dress

1820s -Everyone needs at least one crazy spencer jacket, right?

1820s-30s A day out shopping...I love the eccentric hat!

Victorian...

1830s soft summertime dress

1830s ruffled wrapper

1840 silk dinner dress

1840s yellow tucked sheer

1850s brown and blue. I adore this one especially!

1850s-60 wrapper. The colors are best!

Corded cotton bonnet for outdoor work

Ball gowns! 1850s-60s

Swiss waist and attached bows and sash.

This I plan to make to accessorize my next ballgown...

White sheer summer dress, accented with blue silk. Perfect in every way.

Edwardian...

I love ridiculously frilly dresses, and this defines it - 1890s.

1905 cook's dress and apron

(yes,I think I could do some very inspired baking in this outfit....)

Sweater, 1905. So feminine and sporty!

1900s, gold and yellow Worth evening gown

1910 French silk petticoat

1910 evening dresses

1930s-40s...

1930s cotton polka dot!

1930s flowy red stripes

1942 plaid heels......:)

Do you have any speical historical favorites? Ones that you want to create, or just like to dream about? Please share!

To see more finds, check out my Pinterest account!

Jane Austen Convention - Part 4

2011-11-07T10:30:00.000-06:00

Our last full day at the Jane Austen convention! We were busy busy, as you can tell from the above picture!

In the morning, we decided to model some of our items for a while - Rebecca is sporting a darling brown linen apron, a la Molly Gibson, and below I am wearing a printed half-robe.

About 3 in the afternoon we had a very long lull - and complete silence, as all of the attendees were in the grand ballroom to hear a talk given by the famous screenwriter, Andrew Davies!

After that was over, the most exciting thing of the entire weekend happened! The BBC film crew came into our room, and got set up for filming the tea booth! Rebecca and I were so excited to see the cameras 'in action'! Then, while that was going on, one of the crew members came over to our table and asked 'did we mind if they came over and did a bit of filming at our booth afterward'?

Of course we didn't mind at all! We couldn't believe it! We were booth in such a state - kicking each other under the table we were so excited, and frantically tidying up our booth!

Basically the lady just interviewed us a bit and asked questions about what we were selling, and the different types of dresses.

It felt so strange to be surrounded by cameras and British-speaking people! Too much fun!

At the end of the interview, the lady even bought one of our children's dresses for her little girl!

Apparently the filming at the convention may be part of a Jane Austen documentary airing on BBC in December. I doubt our bit of filming will make the final cut - but it was great just getting the experience! Something we will certainly never forget!

The last day, as we were packing up we got a glimpse of Mrs. and Mrs. Edward Ferrars, Colonel Brandon and Marrianne as they were making their way to the Grand Ballroom for the long-anticipated wedding!

We thought it made a fitting end to a lovely week, full of memories!

Halloween? (Good Article.....)

2011-10-29T10:43:00.000-05:00

"Instead of hating evil, Americans toy with it. We toy with holidays like Halloween that were conceived in evil and that promote the “cute-ification” of evil, whether that evil takes the form of witchcraft, sorcery, ghoulishness, or some other form of malevolent imagery paraded before our children. We laugh at the very things that the Lord describes as “abominations,” and we find ourselves obsessively fascinated by, and attracted to, all things dark."

Read the rest of the article HERE. Excellent article by Vision Forum Ministries....

Jane Austen Convention - Part 3

2011-10-29T10:00:00.000-05:00

The second full day at the booth (Friday) was a bit different. Instead of having steady stream of customers througout the day, there would be about hour long lulls, and then all of a sudden, rushes of about 30 minutes where we might have 15 people in the booth at once,.....then another lull. It was kind of crazy, but fun!

During some of the quiet periods, we found time for a little exploring and photo-taking.

These 'Greek' collumns complete the Regency classical feel!

Wool tartan shawl - stolen from my 1860s reenacting wardrobe....

New dress on display!

We brought my sewing machine so we could make alterations on the spot.

Handpainted sign in bright pink and deep aqua.

Rebecca started making drawstring reticules while at the booth after getting lots of requests! Aren't they darling?

Table full of frilly wares.....

A lovely ruffled cap, again by Rebecca.

Various dresses on display.

Now I would like to introduce you to some new friends!

In our Emporium room, we were blessed to be near some lovely ladies with Bingley's Teas.

Now, I had heard vaguely before about the Jane Austen Tea Series, but I had no idea how delightful it really was. Each tea in the series is carefully concocted to correspond with a character from Jane Austen's novels. How fun is that? I knew I had to have some, but had a hard time deciding on which to choose! I finally settled on the 'Emma' which is a 'Young Green Tea, Full of Romantic Ideas. Strawberries, Roses, Flavoring Unite to find a Matchmakers Blend' and the 'Elizabeth' which is 'A Strong Black tea with Sassy, Smart Cranberry Rounded with Sweet flavoring and Flowers of Opinion'. Both are absolutely wonderful! I also want to try 'Treasures from the Colonel' and 'The Patience of Miss Price'.

I have to confess that Rebecca bought 'Wicked Wickham'! *gasp*, shocking!

Angela and Julia were so much fun - full of sweetness and laughter! They were constantly brewing teas at their booth that filled the room with delicous aromas - lucky us- we got to try scrumtious samples all week!

The teas come in adorable boxes with character vinettes that look like antique Jane Austen books!

Shhh!

Don't tell my Jane Austen-loving friends and family....

but I'm thinking these would make fabulous Christmas gifts.....

We were all four wearing various shades of blue and white Saturday, and thought it merited a picture!

The beautiful tea blends out for a colorful display on china saucers.

Next up......Part 4, in which we become famous

......sort-of......

Jane Austen Convention - Part 2

2011-10-26T10:47:00.000-05:00

Well, the first day of the convention had come!! We woke up early - 5:30 am, got dressed in our costumes, unrolled our rag curls and jumped into the pickup for the hour drive into downtown Ft. Worth. The traffic was pretty heavy, so we got there a few minutes later than the 8 am opening time for the Emporium rooms.

There were already customers in the booth waiting to purchase items, so we were rushed in right away to a flurry to shop-keeping and meeting new people! That whole day we had a pretty steady stream of lovely people coming through the booth, and were very pleased with our shrinking inventory list at the end of the day. :)

The adorable Rebecca in ringlets....

At the back of our Emporium room, there was a fantastic vintage book booth. You can imagine that any spare time I had was spent there! During one time as I was deep in a book, a fellow came up and told me that I looked 'just like a picture out of another century'. By his accent I could tell he was from the UK, and it turns out he was part of a crew from the BBC that had come over to do some filming at the JASNA convention! Rebecca and I were so excited to have met someone from 'across the pond'. That same day I also met a lady from Edinburgh, and several from Canada, and even Australia.

We though it was quite exciting!

How I wish these were on my self at home! A 3-volum set of leatherbound Scott novels from 1850!

Godey's Lady's books from various 19th c. years.....

We didn't have time to experiment with hairstyles as we had planned, so these were what we cam up with at 5 am! It felt very strange at first to be wearing Regency clothing and hairstyles for a whole day together!

The hotel was so elegant! This double stairway is what we saw when we first came through the door. Very impressive!

After a very busy day we went home exhausted, but our work wasn't over yet. We had some minor alterations to do on several dresses that had sold that day. (shortening the hems and such) So we worked up in Rebecca's charming upstairs sewing room until late, while watching/making fun of the most recent film version of Jane Eyre. Went to bed at 1 am for a few hours of precious sleep, ready to begin anew for the second day of the convention.......

(to be continued)

Bag of the Week + Free Shipping from Ness

2011-10-19T16:11:00.000-05:00

For the next months Ness is going to have a different handbag on sale each week!

This week it is the stunning leather and tartan purse 'Krystal' - at 50% off!

More good news for international customers, like myself - currently they also have an offer for free shipping on international orders! Click on the banner above to learn more....

Also, have you seen the newest shoe design - the adorable 'Henriette'?....

Completely swoon-worthy. I don't even understand how a shoe can legally be this cute.

Jane Austen Convention, Part 1

2011-10-19T15:43:00.001-05:00

Hello everyone!! It's good to be home again, I feel like I've been gone for weeks, not just 5 days!

The Jane Austen Convention was amazing!!

I can't wait to tell you all about it in the upcoming series of blog posts....

Last Tuesday, my brother and I drove up to Rebecca's house. We went up a day early as we had a few errands to run, and wanted to get settled in nicely before we headed into the big city. On Wednesday, we had such fun doing a photoshoot at Rebecca's lovely house and grounds. I wanted to be sure I had good pictures of several key items for my Etsy shop in case they sold at the booth.

First, our "Molly and Cynthia" dresses, inspired by the beginning year of Elizabeth Gaskell's 'Wives and Daughters'. A tad late for Jane Austen, but not much. :) My dress bodice and sleeves are patterned from a Janet Arnold pattern 1827-29. Both are cotton prints.

Our white dresses! I like to think of them as our 'Emma and Harriet' dresses. Rebecca's is a delicate cotton voile, and mine is a swiss dot worn with a lacey chemisette.

A couple of outerwear items I made for the booth. I am wearing a simple dark brown wool pelisse, lined with brown linen. Rebecca is wearing an intricate plum purple and cream silk spencer with slashed and piped sleeves and a fold-back collar.

The sleeve details are copied from a museum dress c. 1810

A lovely apron front style ballgown in brilliant red cotton lawn, trimmed in gold silk. This one sold at the booth, but look for a custom listing soon in the shop.

My pale blue cotton lawn 'Anne Elliot' dress, inspired by the Amanda Root 'Persuasion':

And......last but not least. Our 'Gossipy Old Maids Drinking Tea' photo session.....

Inspired by the Miss Brownings from Wives & Daughters, Mrs. Bennet, and Cranford.....

The Stern Old Maid and the Forlorn Old Maid

After this delightfuly hilarious photo shoot, it was time to gather up all the last details and head to Ft. Worth to set up the booth! I was extremely nervous, as it was my first time to drive in Ft. Worth (or any city of comparable size), plus my first time for drivng in a confusing down-town......but we mangaged to arrive all in one piece, and on good time.The hotel was very posh and impressive - quite elegant! Everyone was friendly and helpful as we got set up.

Our booth was in a good situation, just inside the door of the middle room of the three Regency Emporiums.

It was quite fun decorating and deciding which items to display on the dress forms....

The red ball gown made an eye-catching display

Rebecca arranges a ruffled cap

Finished!

Chemisettes, chemises, caps, weskits, and corsets

Very excited for our first day of selling on the morrow!

Part 2 to follow.....

Almost time!

2011-10-08T16:57:00.000-05:00

The time for the much-anticipated Jane Austen Society convention has almost arrived! This week has been something of a daze - somehow I seem to have left all the booth details until the last, I've been too busy sewing to think of much else!

So, besides some last minute sewing (I'd still like to reach my self-imposed quotas....but we shall see)

I've been......

Painting ...the sign featuring my logo for the booth table!

Packing... Both modern clothes, and my own Regency attire!

Creating... and gathering vintage inspired decorations for the booth...

...and taking photos of the finished items for later use in my Etsy shop.

Honestly I'm getting kind of scared! I've never done anything like this before.....so I'm praying all goes well, and I don't forget to do/bring anything vital! :)

Inside My Wardrobe....

2011-09-25T16:35:00.002-05:00

My vintage armoir, where I store many of my costumes/vintage/historical clothing - is currently full of Regency dresses. 17 adult dresses are completed for the JASNA booth...and make quite a colorful collection!

Need to make....

Just. Three. More.

(to complete my goal of twenty!)

Recent Projects

2011-09-15T09:00:00.000-05:00

Even in the midst of Jane Austen sewing craziness, I've squeezed in a few custom orders.

The first, which was actually also a Jane Austen request, was a simple but lovely blue linen Regency dress.

Destined to swirl at an English Country Dance, I was told!

I've been getting quite a lot of requests for 18th century style children's costumes lately, which are of course a lot of fun!

These were for 2 sisters having a themed birthday party! Their mother designed the gowns herself, and sent me a sketch from which to pattern the dresses.

Sis didn't want to give up the pink one!

This dress, was in the style of the blue taffeta 'Felicity' dress, which can be seen in the shop, but in a historical reproduction cotton print. Accented with vintage cream lace.

Sewing Week Report

2011-09-14T18:48:00.003-05:00

Last week was an unusually busy week of sewing. Rebecca came to stay for our belated annual 'sewing week' and we were determined to be the two most productive seamstresses in the history of historical sewing.

Our goal was sewing items for the Jane Austen convention. So, with the aid of several movies, chocolate-chip cookie dough brownies, and the delightfully cool weather,

Our combined accomplishments were:

5 dresses

2 weskits

3 bodiced petticoats

2 ruffled caps

2 aprons

1 morning robe

for a total of 15 items in 4 1/2 days!

(of which we are not unreasonably proud....)

Sadly we didn't really take any pictures during the course of the week. We were rather- busy. Later we have planned a mammoth photo shoot.

But to suffice for now are a few sketches and one sneak peak of a red and gold ball gown.....

Hope everyone is doing wonderfully! I'm counting down the days to the Jane Austen convention, looking forward to being done with this crazy huge sewing project!

Ness Autumn 2011 is here!

2011-08-31T09:40:00.002-05:00

The long anticipated Ness Fall collection is here! So many new favorites......

~ Tamsin ~

I'm just going to start off with my absolute #1 new Ness favorite - the 'Tamsin' puffy vest. How it looks like the just the perfect thing to snuggle into when going outdoors on a crisp Fall day! So pretty and bright too. I have to admit that quilted vests like this one are my favorite item to wear in cool weather - (even indoors!)

~ Patience ~

This dress, though in a cheerful, flowery print which would be perfect for summer - is in autumnal colors, which will carry it over perfectly into colder weather - I can see it paired with a snug jacket, a pair of plum purple tights and brown leather mary-janes!

~ Almira ~

I have to say this lovely little lightweight knit top puts me in mind of charming ensembles I've seen from 40s fashion magazines, paired with pencil skirts and heels!

~ Beth ~

Honestly, could you choose between these two delightful tartan colors? I just can't - but I think the oversized bow is simply adorable.

~ Callie ~

Sometimes I think the folks at Ness must know my favorite colors - here they are all over the fall collection! A lovely coral pink and and deep aqua blue. Or, as they call them "Carmine" and "Biscay Bay".

~ Dotty ~

Fitted jackets are just wonderful things to have in a wardrobe during cold weather, and as usual the Ness tartan colors just make a good thing better!

........Details......

What do you think of Ness Autumn 2011? Which are your favorites?

What I've Been Sewing...

2011-08-26T20:49:00.000-05:00

So, what have I been up to lately? Sewing. Sewing until I can't see straight late into the evening.

The summer didn't go exactly as I had forseen, so I'm crunching for time, getting ready for the Jane Austen Convention where I will have a booth selling Regency attire.

I don't have acutal pictures for you, but I've been doing quite a few replicas, inspired by Regency era films, so here are some pictures of my inspirations to tide you over....:)

A reproduction of Anne's pale blue apron front dress.

In my size too.....which means I may just have to keep it to wear myself.....

This late regency dress, circa 1827-29, according to Janet Arnold, was a fun project! I got the idea from an roll of vibrant silk plaid that has been sitting in my fabric stash unused for several years. Yes! this is the perfect opportunity to make an outrageously pretty dress with it. So far I've made a mock-up (which turned out just lovely, if I do say so myself) in yellow cotton print. Before the convention, I hope to get the silk version completed.

One of the quickest types of Regency dresses are one-layer sheer dresses with long sleeves, that fasten in back with drawstrings:

One in navy blue cotton lawn,

Two others in chocolate brown.

So far I have 11 dresses made that are ready to sell in the booth.

My goal is to have at least 20 minimum by October, God willing .:)

+ various undergarments and accessories which I have made a fairly good start on as well.

There are also 3 other dresses of various descriptions which I haven't yet decided if I am going to sell or wear myself....:)

I feel a bit like this right now:

Somewhat tired, and ready for a good night's sleep. :)

Historical Costume Inspiration Festival 2012

2011-08-22T09:00:00.004-05:00

Remember the Historical Costume Inspiration Festival last October? Are you ready to do it again??

Well - I'm excited to announce -Story of a Seamstress will again be hosting the festival in

January 2012.

(The exact dates will be announced closer to time.)

................................................................................................

What to expect during the HCIF:

-An entire week celebrating historical costumes!

-Interviews with costumiers

-Fabulous giveaways

-The Costume Contest

-Great prizes

-Helpful Articles

-Visual inspiration galore

-'Meeting' talented seamstresses from all over the world!

You will be invited to share your historical costume sewing projects,enter the contest, and be able to view everyone else's lovely entries! Last year we had over 50 exquisite costume entries!

I will be posting several times each day during HCIF, with my own historical replica projects from the last year (I have so many to share!! Exciting!), as well as my interviews with famous seamstresses from the historical costuming world, and much more!

If you weren't involved in last year's Festival, then go back and relive the fun, read all about it, and enjoy the scrumptious costume inspiration!

There will be a few changes in the way the contest works, such as new categories and such, which I believe will be for the better! I've also got some pretty amazing prizes in the works for the winners! More details will be forthcoming! I wanted to go ahead and make the announcment to give everyone a chance to do their photoshoots before the weather turns cold.

.......................................................................................................

So, if you plan to be involved in HCIF, or even if you just enjoy looking at everyone's entries, then I would be grateful if you would take one of the buttons below and place on your blog sidebar and link to this post.

Help me spread the word - the more the merrier! Thanks!!

If you have any thoughs or critiques about the festival - I would be glad to hear them, as I am of course still planning all the details!

Are you as excited as I am? Can't wait, girls! I know it's going to be delightful!

ModCloth Giveaway

2011-08-21T23:31:00.000-05:00

Kellie is hosting a lovely ModCloth Giveaway in honor of her adorable new blog! Do go and see!

Giveaway Winner!

2011-08-21T12:54:00.001-05:00

The winner (chosen by random number) of the Ness Fion Tartan Shoes is......

Miss Raquel!

Congradulations! I will contact you via email.

Everyone else - thanks so much for being involved in the giveaway!

Aaaand.....stay tuned, because tomorrow I have a very exciting annoucement!!!

One more day to enter the Ness Giveaway!!

2011-08-19T18:55:00.000-05:00

The giveaway for the Ness tartan shoes ends tomorrow at midnight!

If you haven't entered yet - what are you waiting for??

18th Century Princess

2011-08-12T09:00:00.002-05:00

Historically inspired by the 18th century, a princess dress in pink satin and cream taffeta....

This morning, I sent this ensemeble off for a little girl's birthday party. I had quite a good time making it - actually it was a variation on another 18th century style dress I did last year.

Although, I have to admit I like this one better. :)

Dress can be seen here in the shop.

Isn't little sis adorable?

A ruffled taffeta petticoat to match! I think it gives the skirt a nice shape.

Can now be seen here in my shop.

Details.

I used two different types of trim put together - the cream laced cord, and some lovely organza rose, pearl and lace stuff.

This has me itching to sew some actual, historically constructed 18th dresses......but that must wait for a while yet! Still been super busy on Regency dresses - hope to have pictures posted of that soon!

Scandinavian Folk Costumes

2011-08-09T14:56:00.000-05:00

Last year I began reading the blog, Folklore Fashion, it was brim full of breathtaking photography of Scandinavian folk costumes antiques and reproductions. Having never really studied much about this type of costume - I was quite intrigued. Some of the techniques I recognize (the gauging on the skirts, for instance) from 1860s sewing, but as for the stunning color, fabric, and embroidery combinations - I think they are just fascinating!

It's amazing how all the different regions have their own distinct folk costume! They are so varied and each just gorgeous....looks like the stuff of fairytales....

These images are from the new book Scandinavian Folklore, which I plan on adding to my research collection as soon as I can budget it in! :) Looks like a beautiful resource book!

18th Century 'Devonshire' Shoes

2011-08-07T16:42:00.001-05:00

The Devonshires are a leather 18th century shoe based on museum examples from the 1760s through 1780s. They're made of top-grade dyable leather, with a beautiful, smooth Italian leather sole for dancing, and are hard-wearing, water- and mud-proof, for even the toughest of outdoor re-enactments.

Pre-Order the Devonshires through August 10, and get the special $100 price. We're only making 200 of these shoes, so don't miss the chance to own one of only a couple hundred pair on the planet! Visit www.american-duchess.com to order.
...................................................................................................................................................................

Aren't these gorgeous? I don't do much 18th Clothing (yet...), but these are awfully tempting! Go here to enter a giveaway for a pair....

Ness Vintage Style + Giveaway

2011-08-06T09:04:00.000-05:00

Allow me to introduce the tartan waistcoat from Ness of Scotland!

.....vintage style!

This is the perfect item to accessorize your vintage-inspired fall and winter outfits!

What I'm wearing:

Vest: 'Harry' Vest from Ness of Scotland

Blouse: JC Penny, Pale pink dotted swiss cotton with ruffle accent.

Skirt: Tropical wool circle skirt, 1950s pattern. (sewn by me)

Shoes: Brown leather mary janes by Candies

& Vintage 30s or 40s brown and white spectators

I think this outfit would be such fun to wear to a fall swing dance!! But there are so many different outfits that would benefit by the addition of a cute, fitted vest like this, that the possibilities are endless! It could even be incorporated into a western boots and jean skirt ensemble!

And - aren't you in luck??

The 'Harry' vest as shown happens to be on sale right now!

50% off!

Until Tuesday you can also recieve an additonal 20% off! How sweet is that?

Do go and take a look at Ness online!

College girl circa 1950? lol.

I am very impressed with the quality of the Ness items I have recieved. The fit and sizing of the clothing is accurate, and the packaging and tags were equally charming!

I can't get over how bright and luminous the colors are!

Taking a classic fitted waistcoat and giving it a pop of modern color? Ness is brilliant.

How could you not smile while wearing something that outrageously fun? And Scottish to boot!

The vest features a dipping soft-V neckline, and fastens with 3 satin covered buttons. Front waist has a double point and two faux welt pockets. Lined in soft satin in a cheery flowerburst print. Tailored with flattering princess seams. Love it!

Now - for a giveaway surprise from Ness!

The 'Fion' Tartan Wedge

Aren't these the most adorable shoes? These were always one of my favorite Ness items - but now that I have seen them in person, I like them even better!

These are very comfortable - the wedge heel is sturdy, and at a comfortable walking height.

Covered in colorful 'Willow' tartan wool tweed & accented with a bright neon pink bow!

Lined in pink satin and padded with a cute thistle print design!

These exact shoes shown are going to be given away!

They are a size 7 US, 5 UK, 38 EURO

If this isn't your size - feel free to enter for a friend or family member and surprise them!

To Enter the Giveway:

Mandatory entry: Comment on this post inlcluding a way to contact you (blog, email, etc.) - 1 entry

Follow this blog (or let me know if you already follow) - 1 entry

Post about the giveaway on your blog, facebook, or twitter - 1 entry for each

Place the above giveaway button on your blog sidebar, linked to this post - 3 entries

Purchase an item from Ness - 15 entries

Giveaway ends on Saturday, August 20th, 2011.

It is only neccessary to leave one comment and tell me what all entries you have done. I will tally up all the separate entries when the giveaway ends.

Regency Ball Gown

2011-07-25T12:51:00.000-05:00

Remeber the Jane Austen Convention I am attending this fall? Still finding time here and there to make Regency items to set aside for my booth in October!

So - a few pictures of a white cotton voile ball gown I made last month.

This particular dress is an apron-front style, which means the front bodice and skirt are actually like an apron or a bib which fastens with straight pins and buttons to the shoulders and waist.

The base pattern was from Janet Arnold's book. Note the very small back!

I apologize for the ridiculously un-regency tan line! :(

The skirt back is very full - the most material I have put into a Regency dress yet.

I like it!

Sleeves are very short and full-gathered. Look closely and you can see where the waist buttons and the bib neckline is pinned.

Catherine Morland wears a dress very similar in the 2008 film 'Northanger Abbey'.

Summer Sale at Ness

2011-07-23T11:24:00.000-05:00

Summer sale from Ness of Scotland!

Click the banner above to take a look!

Fall 2011 Trends

2011-07-22T15:48:00.001-05:00

What is in store for fashion trends this fall?

First of all there are some very interesting colors gaining popularity...

from Pantone

Have you been seeing these colors??....I certainly have

Kate Spade

Anthropologie Mod Cloth

Fall 2011 Knitwear preview from Ness

Anne M. Cramer MillyNY

Retro looks from the 60s and 70s

are everywhere! Personally, I don't like this as well as the 50s inspired looks that were so popular last year, but there are still some nice elements to be seen...
Pencil skirts, fitted blouses, a-line and shirt dresses, long and short jackets.
In combinations of muted tones or bright, unexpected colors.

Anthropologie

J. Crew Fall 2011

Yoana Baraschi Anne M Cramer

Paisley and Peasant

Bohemian: another retro trend still in vogue. Lots of flowing layers, leather accents, and maxi lengths.

Anthropologie

Modcloth

Yoana Baraschi

Forever 21

Plaid and Tweed

...to add a bit of British flair to your wardrobe.

Again - seems to be in bright, popping colors or all muted shades.

Jackets coming soon from Ness Fall Collection!

New Tweed Colors from Ness

Irregular Choice

MillyNY

Socks.....and Heels?

Rather an interesting trend that's been around longer than I thought it would, and seems to be continuing this fall. Hmm. Not sure I will try it. :) What do you think?

Historical Dress for 'The Oaks' Museum

2011-07-13T09:00:00.001-05:00

This winter I was contacted by 'The Oaks' House Museum in Jackson, Mississippi about making an 1850s dress for display. Needless to say, I was honored and delighted as could be to take on such a wonderful project! As you probably already know, even though I do alot of costume work for Etsy, historical reproductions are my true sewing passion!

'The Oaks' is one of the few remaining houses in Jackson that wasn't burned down during the War Bewteen the States. Isn't it lovely? I'd love to visit someday!

The first sketches, trying to decide what style/years of dress to choose. In the end we decided on a fan-front style, similar to the green fan-front dress shown.

Eliza Ellis Boyd (a later portrait)

The target years decided on were 1856-7, when the lady of the house, Mrs. Boyd, would have been in her mid-thirties. We also decided to use sheer cotton fabric for the dress. Something that would represent a 'nicer' summer dress, but wouldn't be as stuffy (or expensive!) as silk or wool.

Inspiration pictures of 1850s-1860 original sheer dresses:

Fabric chosen: deep purple, yellow, and white cotton floral voile. Sheer fabrics are always so lovely!

Pre-sewing dress sketch:

Fan-front bodice, separate lace collar, double ruffle on full gathered skirt and pagoda sleeves, with white barred voile undersleeves.

I used a combination of Past Patterns Fan Front and Darted bodice patterns...

All seams and stitching visible to the outside were hand-sewn. That meant the hems of the 2 skirt ruffles too. Let me tell you, that's alot of ruffles....seemed like miles when I was in the middle of it!

The whole process was really great - I just loved every minute of it!! The material was great, and I loved doing all the little detail work.

The finished ensemble:

Fastens up back with tiny white china piecrust buttons.

The lace used on the collar and cuffs was sent to me by the museum curator - it's an absolutely gorgeous creamy lace netting - just perfect to finish off the dress!

I also used it as an overlay for the undersleeve cuffs:

I love the way the full pagoda sleeves drape! So elegant...

The dress was shipped off to the Museum just this week! I hope it does well in their display, it was such a pleasure and a priveledge to work on this piece!

Ness of Scotland + Story of a Seamstress

2011-07-05T10:00:00.001-05:00

Do you remember Ness of Scotland?

I discovered this wonderful independent Scottish fashion shop last January, and wrote a post about it after absolutely falling in love with their whimsically colorful designs, and unique use of tartan.

Well - I am now very pleased to announce that Story of a Seamstress is now a Ness affiliate!

You will notice the Ness banner at the right hand side of page. By clicking on it you will be taken directly to Ness's lovely little online shop where you can see the full line of products! I love how each piece is lively enough to brighten up an entire wardrobe!

I know many of you share my passion for all things Scottish, so I am happy to be able to share details about new Ness items! Their current Spring collection is to die for, and I'm eagerly anticipating their Fall 2011 collection!

Keep on the lookout for lots more about this lovely shop - in the very near future I hope to be hosting a giveaway featuring Ness, as well as doing some product reviews and photoshoots to post here on the blog! Quite exciting!

The main Ness shop - not far from Edinburgh castle! (isn't that romantic?)

A must visit place on any future visit to Scotland!

Ariel Princess Dress in Sea Green and Silver

2011-06-25T16:15:00.001-05:00

This week I had quite a fun custom order for a Princess Ariel ball gown in sea green and silver.

Material is shantung faille and slipper satin.

The most challenging part was adjusting the ballgown bodice pattern to accomodate the scallop/fin shapes below the waist.

Full pleated skirt is separate and features a front panel of contrasting satin.

Mother of pearl buttons to compliment the 'sea' theme!

Matching starfish/flower hair comb.

Puffed sleeves, with insets of teal floral satin.

Trimmed with silver.

These were some of the inspiration pictures:

Ariel's dress as worn at the Disney parks.

40s Inspired Summer Dress

2011-06-23T09:00:00.001-05:00

Bright yellow 40s inspired summer dress!

Made eariler this spring to attend a play and do some swing dancing. Also pictured is my sweet and lovely friend, Des! :) Who looks adorable in her pink, green, and white ensemble!

Fabric is a lightweight rayon shirting in a sunny yellow, white and lime green daisy print.

Scoop neckline, sleeveless, buttons down front and has a self fabric tie belt.

So comfy and cool!

The bodice was from this 1940s pattern:

Sans sleeves, and with gathering on the bodice instead of darts.

and the skirt from this c. 1940 pattern:

This is also the pattern I used for my green 40s dress.

Fun times! :)

Sneak Peek at the Edwardian Dress Designer Kit

2011-06-21T13:25:00.000-05:00

The next in the Dress Designer series is almost completed!

I hope to have Design Your Own Edwardian Dress ready for purchase (and a giveaway!) by the end of the summer!

Currently I am designing the watercolor illustration for the cover page - as shown in these two sneak peek pictures! :) Then, as soon as I write up the historical notes page, it will be off to the printer's shop!

Very excited about this new kit! It is such a fun and frilly time period - so many fun hats and intricatedly detailed dress styles and trimmings!

I also have a question for you, my blog readers. What time period would you like to see as the next Dress Designer?

Room Decor and Color Inspiration

2011-06-17T17:35:00.000-05:00

We've recently redone our kitchen floors, and I've been making new curtains, and tablecloths and things. Which has put me in a home-decorating mood.....so I began studying my own room and realized a few changes for the better and brighter could be made.....

First of all - here is my room as it has been since being rearranged last winter:

I still like the arrangement - but the colors are all a bit muddled - no theme or scheme. Nothing very bright either. So -- I've come up with a few ideas to change that:

I'd like to go with a color scheme of robins-egg blue and coral pink. With pops of lavendar, celery green and buttery yellow.

My tentative to-do list for my room. Nothing too major or expensive - but I think it shall be a big improvement!

.............................................................

-Iron bed frame painted a robin's-egg-blue

-White chenille bedspread (which I already own), with coordinating ruffled pillow shams and throw pillows, and buy or make a new dust ruffle.

-Paint my sewing table, cedar chest, vanity stool, sewing stool, picture frames, ironing board, and bedside table various pretty and soft (but not pastel...) colors.

-Recover both lamp shades - something fun....

-Find a lovely fluffy rug for the center of the room.

-Decide if I want any kind of window treatment over the sheer curtains ( a valance....or a few whispy drapes at the top?)

- Decide what to put above the computer desk....(I'm thinking of making a pretty bulletin board with some scrumptious matching fabric...)

A color scheme wasn't hard to decide on. Two of my favorite colors (in clothing...fabric....and everything else!) are aqua blue (or robins-egg-blue) and coral pink. (both dark and light).

And those two colors together??? welll.....

Happy colors for me.

I love the idea of buying all these little pieces of delicous fabric in my favorite colors (whether they match exactly or not) and having a riot of pretty pillows on my white bedspread....

Blue bedframes!

More color scheme:

Bright and cheery

Coral, aqua, and celery.

perfect colors!

A bit more lavendar.

and coral roses....

Well- what do you think of my color scheme and plans? Any advice or critiques would be quite welcome - any ideas for my space? Or have you heard any good decorating tips lately? :)

Lady of Shallot DVD and Prayer Request

2011-06-08T22:06:00.000-05:00

Pauline Loven, whom you may remember as the costumier of the 'Lady of Shallot' production, and from the interview she gave for this blog during the Historical Costume Inspiration Festival last year. She has an American friend, Stephanie who is currently dealing with several sudden medical accidents/difficulties in her family. To help out, they will be giving her family 50% of each of the Lady of Shalott DVD sales for the next five weeks to help her meet unexpected medical bills. They would very much appreciate your support and prayers!

Custom Label Giveaway Winner

2011-06-06T11:11:00.000-05:00

Sorry I've been late in completing the giveaway! (I've been out of town several days)

However - the winner has now been chosen via random number generator - and the lucky winner is

-- Storybook Woods --

Congradulations! :)

Thank you so much to Inked Papers for sponsoring the giveaway!!

Summer Fashion Finds

2011-06-02T23:07:00.000-05:00

Enjoy some of my summer fashion inspiration! I love how everything this summer seems to be so retro - and so easy to recreate! Sources can be found at my Pinterest fashion page.

So fun, soft, and twirly!

Good idea for long skirts - wide waist band with belt loops.

Love the handkerchief skirt! And the plaid...

This would be the easiest thing in the world to make - just find a top and a skirt at a thrift store, sew them together - and there you have it! A new dress. :)

I don't normally wear shorts, but these look so comfy and retro for around the house or working in the garden! I would love to make something like these, any one know of a pattern?

Coral pink is one of my best colors! Love the combination with navy here!

This fabric reminds me of a vintage tablecloth!

Beautiful lavendar and red maxi dress.....I'd love to make something like this too - with a few small changes. Just lovely!

What is inspiring you fashion-wise this summer?

New Potatoes from the Garden

2011-05-31T13:26:00.000-05:00

Lately we've been enjoying delicious new potatoes from our garden!

Stockton, Carolina and I search for potatoes...

These are our raised 'lasagna beds', and the potatoes, instead of being dug out of the dirt, were planted earlier this spring in a bed of thick straw. We first heard of this method from the wonderful 'Homestead Blessings' DVDs taught by our Tennessee friends the West ladies....

See - I'm simply pushing the straw out of the way to see if there is a potato big enough to eat...

So easy, and they aren't even dirty!

Aren't they the prettiest shade of pink?

These potatoes, combined with fresh milk from our cow Bossy, garlic, and other goodies, made a scrumptious creamy soup. :)

Custom Label Giveaway!

2011-05-28T17:04:00.001-05:00

Hope everyone is having a lovely Saturday!!

I have quite a surprise for you!

For several years I've been wanting to get some custom-made twill tape labels made, but I never had the time to do it myself, and the ones I saw online were way expensive.....until I disovered Inked Papers on Etsy last month! Michelle, the lovely shop owner offers custom-designed cotton twill tape labels by the spool! Ready to be either machine or hand sewn into garments!

I was able to send her my 'Bonny Blue' logo and request the custom color too! I think they turned out amazing - I'm so pleased how they will look old-timey enough to hand-stitch into my historical garments, yet also look fabulous machine sewn into modern dresses as pictured below...

So - now for the surprise! Inked Papers is hosting a giveway for

One spool of any size twill tape labels!

I know many of my readers are seamstresses and would love to have a way to label their own designs!

Here's how to enter:

Mandatory entry: Comment on this post inlcluding a way to contact you (blog, email, etc.) - 1 entry

Heart or add Inked Papers to your circle on Etsy -1 entry for each

Follow this blog (or let me know if you already follow) - 1 entry

Post about the giveaway on your blog, facebook, or twitter - 1 entry for each

Purchase an item from Inked Papers or Bonny Blue Arts - 10 entries

Inked Papers is also offering a coupon for free shipping in their shop for Story of a Seamstress readers for this week only!

At checkout, simply use coupon code bonnybluearts to recieve free shipping!!

(available only for U.S. shipping)

Bridesmaids Dresses Complete!

2011-05-27T12:08:00.000-05:00

Do you remember the brown linen bridesmaids dress project I mentioned last month?

Well - all 9 dresses are now finished and being shipped out to the wedding party! It was a really fun project - but I'm breathing a big sigh of relief now that it's done. I pray they will all fit the girls perfectly and the wedding will be blessed! :)

I got some pictures using my new diamond cloth backdrop! I'm really happy to have an actual photo backdrop for my Etsy pictures, and can't wait to experiment more with better lighting techniques

There are two different styles of bridesmaid dress - both have a fitted midriff and a slightly gathered knee-length skirt, then one has a 50s sweetheart neckline with wide straps, and the other has a criss-cross V neckline.

A few changes were made to style #2 to make the two styles more uniform - gathered skirt instead of a-line, no tie and slightly wider straps.

Two Princesses

2011-05-19T15:52:00.000-05:00

Last week I had a fun little comission - making two princess dresses as a birthday surprise for a little girl!

One was in deep plum taffeta with a matching lace overlay, accented with pink satin and gold trim.

The other (which is my personal favorite....) is in candy pink satin, overlaid with the most delicious aqua blue sparkle-sheer. Trimmed in organza and pearl rose trim and white lace.

Lots of dress-up fun! :)

Interview and Giveaway at Grace's Garden Walk

2011-05-11T14:10:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone!

I encourage you to visit the lovely blog, Grace's Garden Walk, where I have the honor to have been featured!

In this post you can read my interview and and enter a giveaway of a Dress Designer Kit!

Thanks, Grace! :)

One Regency Dress down...

2011-05-07T10:00:00.024-05:00

....lots more to go. :)

Just finished making my first ready-made dress in preparation for the Jane Austen Convention booth.

I quite like it, and almost wish I was keeping it for myself...

The fabric is a white cotton voile with a print of tiny pale blue flowers. All seams visible to the outside have been handsewn (yes, even the ruffle hems...whew!). The pattern is one I drafted myself, based off a pattern in the Janet Arnold book. Gathered bodice, drawstring closure, slight train at back, modeled with a sheer white ruffled chemisette.

So, it's now biding it's time in the closet until it shall be on display at the booth this fall. I've got so many plans for Regency wear that I want to complete for the booth, it almost makes me giddy! So many dress styles to experiment with....not to mention various styles of corsets, bodiced petticoats....spencers, pelisses....so many possibilites! :)

Hats from the Royal Wedding

2011-05-02T16:03:00.000-05:00

I know everyone is probably sick of hearing about the royal wedding already....but I came into it late as I was too busy most of last week to keep up with it, so I decided to go ahead with a little post. :)

I'll try not to go on about the lovliest of dresses.....or the fairytale-ish-ness of the pictures from the ceremony.

But - the hats worn by the wedding guests were simply amazing. Some cute or classy, some perfectly pretty, and some downright ridiculous. I had to keep blinking to realize these were pictures from now-a-days, and not from a movie or a wedding in the 1900s.....they were all so....well, so British I guess.

I have no clue who most of these people are, but I thought it would be fun to have a little gallery of wedding hat pictures!

I hope the milliners in England are taking a vacation right now. They deserve one. :-)

Which are your favorites??

Isn't her whole outfit scrumptious?? Reminds me of Edwardian/20s dresses...

Then of course we have Cinderella herself, in the most gorgeous wedding dress ev-er.

*sigh*

But....wait....what would a Cinderella story be without two evil stepsisters???

Yep. They were there too. Love it.