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Simplicity 8161 18th Century Costumes Review
Pattern Description:Misses’ 18th century highland costumes includes outfits in two styles: the first is a gown with stomacher and petticoat, and the second is a bodice with petticoat and stomacher. Pattern Sizing:6-14; 14-22 I cut a 16 with some 18 for shoulder/arm. Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?YUP! Were the instructions easy to follow?Except for a weird thing with the sleeve that I believe is physically impossible, yup. What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?The pattern is great as is, though you have to fit it over the proper 18th century stays. If you don’t do…
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Making Fire
My 18th Century (specifically 1770’s) Charmander, aptly named “Le Feu du Charmander,” required a non-historical trim to create a flame effect. During the time period, fabric trims were, for the most part, various types of gathered strips of fabric or bows sewn onto the dress in artful, mirrored ways. No way would this work for the ombre look I was wanting to achieve – let alone match the texture I desired. The solution: nearly 200 individual ‘flames.’ I simultaneously regret and love this decision. I’m often quite conflicted when it comes to costuming and time-consuming techniques, this was no exception. Materials: Five 1-yard cuts of flame colored fabric 2 packs…
